The Surprising Benefits of DASH Diet with More Fat and Less Carbs
The DASH diet—short for Dietary Approaches to Stop Hypertension—is often hailed as a healthy eating plan. It’s traditionally a low-fat diet, heavy on fruits, vegetables, and low-fat (ugh) dairy products. But here’s something interesting: a new study tested a higher-fat version of the DASH diet, including full-fat dairy products. More fat, fewer carbs. And guess what? The results showed improvements in health markers. For those still fearing fat, this is a real eye-opener.
Why I Quit Coffee
I love coffee. It’s been my go-to drug. But I’ve quit it cold turkey, and here’s why.
First, caffeine is highly addictive. I was drinking up to eight cups a day. I didn’t like being that dependent.
Second, caffeine messes with your brain. After a while, you need it just to focus and stay energized. When the caffeine wears off, you feel worse. Mornings? They’re slower without it.
Third, caffeine releases stress hormones and spikes insulin and glucose levels, especially after meals. This could be bad for weight loss.
So, nine days ago, I had my last cup of coffee. From eight cups a day to zero. What happened?
I wish I could say it was easy, but it was tough. For a few days, I had to take painkillers just to sleep and work. It wasn’t just headaches; I had strange, intense muscle pain in my legs (apparently, this can happen).
Motivation also took a hit. In its place, brain fog and irritability.
I replaced coffee with caffeine-free herbal teas. It’s been okay.
I feel much better now. This week, I’m feeling even better, but it’ll take 2-3 weeks to fully get back to normal. I’m looking forward to starting my day without waiting for coffee to kick in. I hope to feel energized all day.
What about weight? I’m already happy with my weight, but it’ll be interesting to see if anything changes. So far, I’ve had more cravings and the urge to eat more to feel better. I hope this passes. But so far, my weight hasn’t dropped; it’s just stable.
I’ll write another blog post when I know the final results. But for now, I’m glad I quit caffeine.
Another Doctor Who Quit Coffee: Dr. Adam Nally
This summer, I interviewed a doctor who first got me interested in quitting coffee. In fact, I tried quitting cold turkey back then but failed.
By the way, this morning I was listening to a podcast interview with Tim Ferriss and Jamie Foxx, both of whom quit coffee because of its negative effects. It seems like a trend…
I’m turning this into a permanent lifestyle change.
Dr. Carl’s Journey to Permanent Weight Loss
Dr. Carl has lost over 100 pounds three times using a low-carb lifestyle, but he never made it permanent. This time, he’s determined not to fall off the wagon and gain the weight back. He and his weight loss buddy Chris started a low-carb diet together:
Thank you for requesting more information about my journey to health through a low-carb lifestyle.
This is actually the third time in my adult life that I’ve lost over 100 pounds using a sugar-free, low-carb lifestyle. Honestly, I find low-carb easy and always effective. My mistake in the past was quitting once I reached my goal, which led to weight gain. Now, at 56, I’m making this a permanent lifestyle change for health, not vanity. Currently, Chris and I have each lost nearly 100 pounds. I started at 277 pounds with a goal of 155, since I’m only 5 feet 9 inches tall. Chris started at around 360 pounds with a goal of 200. We’ve been on this plan for over 10 months. I’m very familiar with this diet and lifestyle, and I’m happy to answer questions and help anyone who needs inspiration.
I’ve attached my progress so far, and you’re welcome to use it on your website if you like.
