The "Eat More - Lose More" Diet

tidbits that tantalize National Headquarters: Low Calorie Density Foods...

This can't be right, can it?

You must've read the headline wrong. It appears to say that one can eat more food and lose weight at the same time. Hmm... Better check the source - surely it's a checkout stand tabloid, with other headlines screaming, "Paris Hilton Wails in Jail," and, "Martians Vacation at Spanish Resort." But...

The actual source of the research is Penn State, hardly a tabloid journalism hotbed. Scientists there report that eating foods low in "calorie density" may be the key to long-term weight loss. This is an important finding, as previous studies have shown that diets typical fail over the long run, with most dieters regaining all previously discarded baggage.

Foods low in calorie density are those with high water content and low fat content - fruits, vegetables, soups, lean meats and low-fat diary foods. These foods allow dieters to eat portions that satisfy their hunger, while providing a natural means of caloric restriction.

The study followed two groups of women over a one-year period. One group was taught how to select low fat foods (LF group), and the other how to select foods both low in fat and high in water (Water group). Both groups showed sustained weight loss at one year, but the Water group lost more during the first six months.

Most significantly, the Water group actually increased their food consumption - by a full 25%, as measured by food weight. As a result, they reported feeling less hungry. Researchers point to this as a key for maintaining healthy eating habits over the long haul.

So, there you have it. When your friends start asking why you look so great, tell them, "I finally started eating enough food to lose weight."

To read more about the study, see this from ScienceDaily. To read more about all aspects of weight loss, see this from About.com.