Quality may trump quantity when it comes to dieting tactics

In order to lose weight, many people take on new eating regimens. Some individuals reduce their calorie intake and cut out foods that are high in carbohydrates. However, in an article published by the Times-Herald of Michigan, nutrition specialist Cheryl Keaney explained that the quality of the calories that dieters eat may promote or hinder their weight loss.

"The amount of calories you eat does matter, but what matter the most is the quality. Just because something is only 150 calories doesn't mean it's going to be OK to eat, as in being beneficial for your health or weight loss," Keaney told the newpaper.

She explained to the news provider that although a peanut butter and banana protein smoothie may contain twice as many calories as a muffin, the excess sugar contained in the latter item will likely be stored in a person's body as fat.

Dieters should evaluate their plates to ensure that each of their meals contains lean protein, a complex carbohydrate, vegetables and a small portion of essential fat, Keaney recommended.

Millions of Americans may find these tips and other weight loss information useful, since statistics from the University of Colorado at Boulder show that one out of every three women are dieting.