I was inspired to write about these two weight loss strategies after I came across a recent study that was based on their effectiveness.

The low-carb vs. low-fat approach is a topic that has been debated for some time.  But according to the latest research from the Stanford School of Medicine, one method is not better than the other. In fact, both strategies yield similar results when it comes to health and weight loss.

The role of healthy food choices

I think what’s important to note is the fact that the participants in the study were instructed to eat healthy foods while following either a low-carb or low-fat diet.

In fact, even the authors concluded that the underlying message of the study was loud and clear: “Eat less, sugar refined flour and include as many vegetables as possible. Go for whole foods whether that is a wheat berry salad or grass-fed beef.”

The participants who lost the most weight said the study helped them change their relationship with food, while also improving mindfulness around their eating habits.

As someone who has experimented with every type of diet out there including low-fat and low-carb, I couldn’t agree more. Instead of focusing on specific macronutrients, why not focus on food quality?

By eliminating unhealthy fats and foods that lack nutrition, you will likely have more energy, less cravings and feel more satisfied. As a result, you will likely lose weight.

Making the most of your calories

Foods that have more nutrients typically give you more bang for your buck (if you know what I mean!) For example, you could eat ½ a chocolate bar or one whole apple topped with almond butter. Although they may contain the same amount of calories, one lacks nutrition. In my opinion, this is what’s going to affect weight loss the most; not the carb or fat content.

An Individual Approach

With that being said, I do believe there are some people who can tolerate more carbohydrates than others, based on their soma type and unique genetic makeup. This is something I’ve come to realize as a fitness competitor and healthy lifestyle coach. Personally, I can only tolerate a moderate amount of carbohydrates. And if I’m getting ready for a fitness competition, I cut them back to become stage-ready.

Also, when I follow a diet that is higher in healthy fats and lower in carbohydrates, I tend to feel less hungry and much more satisfied with way less cravings for sugary or unhealthy foods.

At the end of the day, we are all unique. Therefore, my advice is simple: you need to be the judge of what works for you and your individual body type. No one knows your body better than you!

If you’d like some guidance when it comes to determining the best foods to consume based on your individual body type, be sure to check out my most popular online program: Four Weeks of Fat Blasting. When you purchase this program you will receive a healthy eating guide which includes macro-nutrient recommendations for all body types along with a time-efficient,  at-home exercise program.