Expert reveals why fat loss is about making better choices

The journey to losing weight encompasses regular exercise and following the right diet. However, for those who identify as foodies, staying away from cravings often leads to a "crashout" where progress is lost.

To avoid this, a balanced approach is best. Taking to Instagram on Sunday, dietitian and content creator Allka Phutelaa observed that one does not need to stop eating out to lose weight. What matters is avoiding the highest-calorie options every time.

"Fat loss is not about eating ‘perfectly.’ It’s about making better choices more often," Allka Phutelaa wrote. She suggested optimising common orders, such as choosing a grilled chicken burger over fried versions and opting for Coke Zero or lemon water.

These small changes result in less hidden fat and more protein, leading to better fullness. For pizza lovers, Allka Phutelaa suggested a thin-crust veggie or chicken pizza with extra vegetables and less cheese to cut calories and increase fibre.

When craving pasta, choosing a red sauce or arrabbiata base instead of creamy white sauce provides a lighter meal that is easier to digest. "Fat loss is not ruined by one meal. It gets ruined by mindless ordering every weekend," she highlighted.

Her golden rules include choosing grilled over fried, prioritising protein, and selecting water or zero-sugar drinks. By making these adjustments, individuals can enjoy comfort foods like steamed momos or whole-wheat wraps while staying on track with their fat-loss journey.

Healthier fast food alternatives

1. Cheesy burger with fries:

• Choose grilled chicken and skip the mayo or extra sauce.
• Opt for small fries or skip them entirely.
• Drink Coke Zero or lemon water to reduce liquid calories.

2. Loaded vegetable pizza:

• Request a thin-crust base with extra vegetables.
• Ask for less cheese to reduce saturated fat.
• Limit intake to two slices and pair with a side salad or soup.

3. Creamy white sauce pasta:

• Order red sauce or arrabbiata pasta instead.
• Add grilled chicken or paneer for a protein boost.
• Include extra veggies and share the portion if it is large.

4. Fried momos with mayo:

• Choose steamed momos with chicken or paneer filling.
• Use red chutney as a dip instead of calorie-heavy mayo.
• Add a clear soup to increase satisfaction with fewer calories.

5. Fried wrap or loaded roll:

• Select a whole wheat or grilled wrap.
• Use chicken, paneer, or egg fillings with extra salad.
• Request minimal cheese and sauces to balance blood sugar.

Please Note: This information is for educational purposes only and does not count as professional advice.