It is the dieter's dilemma—is it more important to count fat grams, carbohydrates or calories? To resolve the debate, FoodFit consulted Dr. Tissa Kappagoda, Professor of Medicine at the University of California, Davis, and head of the FoodFit Diet and Fitness Club's Medical Team. Dr. Kappagoda led the development of the FoodFit Plan.
| FOODFIT: |
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Is counting calories important? |
TISSA
KAPPAGODA: |
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Calorie counting is important because it is a measure of energy obtained from food. Over a long period, if the amount of energy derived from food is more than a person requires, the individual will gain weight. The opposite is also true.
For most people, a calorie is an abstract idea. It is not something one can feel or see. This makes it difficult to actually count them. Because of this, a diet plan should direct people to eat the appropriate amount of calories without requiring them to actually count them.
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| FOODFIT: |
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Does is matter where calories come from, i.e. carbohydrates vs. protein vs. fat? |
TISSA
KAPPAGODA: |
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It is important to have these main nutrients balanced in one's diet. Theoretically it is possible to consume all your calories in the form of brown sugar (carbohydrate) or steak (protein) but over the long haul, it will not provide a balanced diet.
Extensive research over many decades has formed the basis for the recommendations given by the National Academy of Sciences' Institute of Medicine, which is what the FoodFit Diet is based on.
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| FOODFIT: |
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How does the FoodFit Diet Plan calculate calories to help people lose weight? |
TISSA
KAPPAGODA: |
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The Foodfit Diet essentially takes a balanced approach to nutrition. All the major food groups are represented in appropriate proportions with the right emphasis on the value of high-fiber fruit and vegetables. The menu plans also emphasize the need to focus on portion size, which is the only practical method for counting calories. Eating too much of even the healthiest foods can lead to weight gain.
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