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  Mel Haynes (Nutritionist)
  Health Professional

  Che, Scientist and Nutritionist I specialise in a practical approach to nutrition. The hardest part about changing your diet is learning how to implement those ... View profile

  Hi,
  
  In my experience a balanced diet is the best approach.  Low carbohydrate diets have been shown to be more effective in the SHORT term, but not in the long term (low fat / low carb come out even)
  
  I would recomend reducing your carbohydrate serves to one or two moderate serves per meal and choosing good high fibre sources like brown rice, high fibre pasta, medium baked jacket potato or wholemeal grain bread.
  
  When it comes to fat, reducing your overall intake is important IF your current intake is high.  I try to focus more on the TYPE of fat which is being consumed and swapping bad fats for good fats.
  Saturated fat is a “bad” fat, one which should be reduced.  This includes butter, cream, full fat dairy and meat.
  
  The good fats include poly and mono unsaturated fats which are found in olive oil, nuts, seeds  and avocado.
  
  This website has some good information on fat: http://www.betterhealth.vic.gov.au/bhcv2/bhcarticles.nsf/pages/fats_and_oils
  
  Other things to keep in mind for weight loss:
  1. Slow and steady wins the race - dropping weight too quickly leads to rebounding
  2. Breakfast is essential for weight loss
  3. Good protein sources like fish, lean meat and non-fat dairy assist with weight loss
  4. Increase serves of fibre and vegetables.
  
  So a simple answer to your question is NEITHER diet is the perfect approach, you need a combination of the two, using the best choices from both categories.
  
  Happy Cooking,
  
  Mel Reply to this post  |  Report
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