The Pistachio Principle: Calorie Reduction Without Restriction
A professor at Eastern Illinois University has come up with an exciting new approach to weight loss through his studies on the habits of pistachio-eaters. In his research, Dr. James Painter (a registered dietitian himself) noted that when people chose pistachios in the shells for a snack (removing the shells as they munch), they ate fewer than people who choose to eat pistachios which were already shelled. It seems there is an effect regarding the impression one has of how much he has eaten, since it takes longer to eat pistachios when you are taking the time to shell them as well.
Another study observed how many pistachios people ate when their empty shells were left out on the table, compared to how much they ate when the evidence of their intake was whisked away. Subjects ate 35% fewer nuts when they could see the visual of how much they had consumed.
Dr. Painter takes note of the fact that in none of these studies were people being restricted in the amounts they ate: They weren’t given a number of calories or an amount of fat grams to work with. They were just allowed to eat until they were satisfied. And they were just as satisfied eating fewer nuts in the shells, as well as eating fewer nuts when they could see the remains of their snacking.
He proposes that a new approach be considered for people trying to lose weight: Instead of trying to eat less and focusing on limiting your intake, try changing the way you eat. Focus on your environment and your behavior instead of your calorie intake. Do away with restrictions and deprivation, and start eating until you are satisfied: just remain aware of how much you are eating, and be wise about stopping when you’ve had enough!
photo credit: Marco Arment
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About The Author: Laurie Beebe has been a registered dietitian for 25 years and is certified in adult weight management. Laurie currently serves as a Related posts:
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