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A food swap can help you 'reduce snacking and overall calorie intake' - 'lose 5lb in one month!'

Personal trainer Omar Ellaboudy shares the best diet habits for weight loss
GB NEWS
Sarra Gray

By Sarra Gray


Published: 18/02/2025

- 13:52

Changing how you fill your plate can make it easier to cut down on calories

Diet is one of the most important factors to consider when trying to lose weight, so really focusing on the foods you eat can help you drop those extra pounds.

A doctor shared why swapping carbohydrates for protein could help you on your way to losing "up to 5lb in one month".


Reducing simple carbs can help with weight loss, but this doesn't mean you need to restrict yourself.

Professor Franklin Joseph of Dr Frank’s weight loss clinic said: "People often think weight loss is about deprivation, but it’s really about smart choices.

Woman in sports bra / oats and fruit

Carbohydrate swaps can help with weight loss

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"By replacing refined carbohydrates with fibre-rich whole grains or high-protein alternatives, you can cut calories while staying full and satisfied."

Carbohydrates such as white bread, white rice, pasta and sugary treats are not as filling as their whole grain counterparts.

The doctor explained: "When you eat refined carbs, your body processes them rapidly, leaving you feeling hungry again soon after.

"By switching to whole grains, such as brown rice, whole wheat bread, or oats, you slow digestion and keep blood sugar levels stable, which reduces snacking and overall calorie intake."

Not only are these foods packed full of fibre - which has a host of health benefits - they keep you feeling fuller for longer, making calorie limits easier to stick to.

Dr Frank suggested high-protein snacks as another filling alternative to simple carbohydrates.

Foods high in protein have the added benefit of contributing to the building and maintenance of muscle.

The expert said: "Instead of white toast in the morning, opt for eggs or Greek yoghurt. Rather than pasta for dinner, try lentil-based alternatives or cauliflower rice.

Woman eating drinking

Swap white carbohydrates for whole grain versions and protein

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"Protein is more satiating than carbohydrates, so you’ll naturally eat less throughout the day."

With diet and exercise, staying hydrated is something all dieters should be conscious of.

An expert shared the best time to drink water for effective slimming, as it can "increase fullness and decrease food intake". They added: "If you want to stabilise your weight, hydrate".