This Diet And Exercise Regime Is The ‘Holy Grail’ Of Losing Weight, Scientists Say
A new diet and exercise regime has been described as ‘the Holy Grail’ of losing weight - while putting on muscle.
But scientists say it’s ‘gruelling’ - and definitely not for everyone.
Researchers at McMaster university found that adhering to a low-calorie, high-protein diet - while exercising six days a week - leads to more weight loss that using a low-calorie diet, combined with exercise.
The researchers followed 40 young men for a month as they exercised six days week - while eating 40% fewer calories than they normally would.
One group ate low calorie food, one group ate low-calorie, high-protein food.
The group who ate more protein lost weight overall - but still gained muscle.
Dr Stuart Phillips of McMaster University said, ‘It’s a tough program and not something that’s sustainable or for those looking for quick and easy fix.
‘We wanted to see how quickly we could get them in shape: lose some fat, but still retain their muscle and improve their strength and fitness.’
‘Exercise, particularly lifting weights, provides a signal for muscle to be retained even when you’re in a big calorie deficit.’
‘We expected the muscle retention, but we were a little surprised by the amount of additional fat loss in the higher protein consuming group.’
