Dr. Berg is known for being one of the top health professionals when it comes to weight loss. His expertise in the field has enabled many people to achieve their weight loss goals. In this blog post, he shares his insights on a frequently asked question about burning calories and burning fat calories. The article aims to serve as a guide for individuals who want to understand the fundamental differences between these two concepts and how they relate to weight loss. So, if you’re looking for in-depth knowledge about weight loss, then this post is for you.

Understanding the Difference between Burning Calories and Burning FAT Calories – Insights from Dr. Berg

Introduction

There is a lot of confusion surrounding the concept of burning calories and burning fat calories. Many people associate exercise with burning calories, but what they may not know is that burning fat calories should be the ultimate goal. In this article, we will take a closer look at the importance of understanding the difference between burning calories and burning fat calories, and provide insights from Dr. Eric Berg DC.

Burning Fat Calories, Not General Calories

When it comes to exercising, the goal is to burn fat calories, not general calories. Burning fat calories will lead to weight loss, while burning general calories may not necessarily lead to long-term weight loss. Dr. Berg emphasizes the importance of keeping carbohydrate intake low to burn fat calories.

Burning Sugar Calories versus Fat Calories

During a workout, the body typically burns sugar calories stored as glycogen instead of burning fat calories. Exercising does not automatically mean that you are burning fat. To burn fat calories, it is important to keep dietary carbohydrates or glucose levels low.

The Negative Effect of Glucose After a Workout

Eating glucose or sugar after a workout nullifies the benefits of exercise. When glucose levels are high, the body will burn glucose instead of burning fat calories. To maximize the benefits of exercise, it is recommended to wait at least an hour after a workout before consuming any high-carbohydrate foods.

Understanding the Importance of Recovery

The benefit of exercise is in recovery later, not necessarily during the workout. When the body exercises, it creates micro-tears in the muscles. The real benefit comes from the body repairing and rebuilding those muscles during recovery. It is important to give the body enough time to recover and repair after a workout.

Keeping Glucose and Sugar Low to Lose Weight

To lose weight and burn fat, it is important to keep glucose and sugar intake low. Dr. Berg recommends keeping glucose and sugar below 20-50 grams per day. When glucose and sugar levels are low, the body is forced to burn fat for energy.

The Importance of Understanding Hormones

It’s not just about eating fewer calories. Understanding hormones is also important when it comes to losing weight. Hormones such as insulin and cortisol play a significant role in weight loss. For example, when insulin levels are high, the body is unable to burn fat. By keeping insulin levels low, the body is able to burn fat more effectively.

The Density of Calories

The density of calories is another important factor to consider when it comes to losing weight. Fat calories have more calories per unit than carbs or protein. This means that even though a food may be low in carbohydrates, it may still be high in calories due to its fat content. It is important to read food labels and understand the macronutrient breakdown of food.

Avoiding Fat Calories to Lose Weight

Contrary to popular belief, it is not necessary to avoid fat entirely when trying to lose weight. However, it is important to avoid excessive fat intake. Consuming too many fat calories can lead to weight gain. It is recommended to consume healthy fats, such as those found in avocados, nuts, and seeds.

Conclusion

Understanding the difference between burning calories and burning fat calories is essential when it comes to losing weight. It is important to keep carbohydrate and sugar intake low, allow sufficient recovery time after exercise, and understand the importance of hormones. By implementing these tips from Dr. Berg, individuals can achieve long-term weight loss and improved health.

FAQs

Q1. Is it necessary to cut out carbs completely to lose weight?
A1. No, it is not necessary to cut out carbs completely to lose weight. However, it is important to keep carbohydrate intake low, especially if you want to burn fat calories.

Q2. Can I eat high-carb foods after a workout?
A2. It is best to wait at least an hour after a workout before consuming any high-carb foods. Eating high-carb foods immediately after a workout can nullify the benefits of exercise.

Q3. How do hormones like insulin and cortisol affect weight loss?
A3. Hormones such as insulin and cortisol play a significant role in weight loss. High insulin levels can prevent the body from burning fat, while excessive cortisol levels can cause weight gain.

Q4. Should I avoid all fats when trying to lose weight?
A4. No, it is not necessary to avoid fats entirely when trying to lose weight. However, it is important to avoid excessive fat intake and focus on consuming healthy fats.

Q5. Can I lose weight without exercising?
A5. Yes, it is possible to lose weight without exercising. However, exercise can help speed up the weight loss process and improve overall health.