We’ve all cycled with our body composition. Some more extreme than others. It is hard, but it is possible to maintain our body composition (% body fat) within a reasonable and healthy range. It takes, however, effort and consistency.
I heard an ad this morning for a laser fat removal procedure that claimed to be “permanent”. It is true that a removed fat cell will not return, so, technically, the ad is accurate, however….
Fat cells grow when the body is overfed. When we diet (i.e., follow a hypocaloric diet) to lose weight (preferably only fat), we have to follow with a diet that will maintain our fat loss (gaining muscle is okay—and, frankly, preferred). If one returns to a hypercaloric diet following weight loss (preferably one will follow a period of weight loss with a period of eucaloric diet to establish a new weight set-point) weight will be gained. Thus, when calories are in excess (and one is not gaining muscle) fat will be stored in the existing fat cells. If fat cells were removed, the existing fat cells will grow.
Fat loss is not permanent—unless proper exercise and dietary habits are established and remain consistent. It is possible to permanently remove or destroy fat cells, but the only way to remain “permanently” lean is to live the lifestyle. Again, consistency is absolutely essential. For most of us, though, that consistency will be less than perfect. That’s okay. Shoot for >80% consistency, and the results will be favorable. Take the short-cut, if you must (I don’t recommend), but recognize the results will not be sustainable without lifestyle change.
Be your best today; be better tomorrow.
Carpe momento!