Nutritional Deficiencies Might Be The Cause of Those Stubborn Pounds

Focusing more on dietary specifics and less on weight-loss methods could help you finally shed those extra pounds, according to new research.

A report published in The FASEB Journal found that inflammation caused by nutritional deficiencies in certain vitamins and minerals could be linked to problems with weight gain, cholesterol, blood sugar, blood pressure and more.

When these deficiencies were corrected, researchers found that major health markers improved, and some participants even lost weight without changing their diets or their exercise levels.

What you eat is more important than how much

Researchers conducted the study across three clinical trials, during which adults ate two "nutrient bars" every day for two months. The participants were monitored for biochemical and physical markers, like cholesterol, insulin, blood pressure and weight.

Results showed that participants who were overweight or obese had significant metabolic improvements just by adding in the additional nutrients that may have been missing from their diets.

According to Dr. Bruce Ames, study author, the threat of future disease is not often enough to inspire people to change their eating habits. Yet the nutrient bar study may help people realize how adequate nutrition can change their health and even their weight, he said.

Gerald Weissmann, editor-in-chief of The FASEB Journal agreed, stating that health is not just a matter of losing weight or staying thin:

"This report shows that what you eat is as important, if not more, than how much you eat and how many calories you burn in the gym."

Source: EurekAlert!