Can You Eat Carbs and Still Burn Fat? Here’s What to Choose!

Carbohydrates often get a bad reputation in the world of fitness and weight loss. Many believe cutting them out entirely is the only way to shed fat, but that couldn’t be further from the truth.

In this blog, we’ll dive deep into the science of fat loss, how you can still eat carbs while losing weight, and the actionable steps you can take to achieve your goals.

You’ll also learn why calories are king, why protein is your best friend, and why resistance training is the secret weapon to transforming your body composition.

Ready to find out how to lose weight without sacrificing your favorite foods? Let’s dive in!

Team GetFIT App
December 9, 2024

Can You Eat Carbs While Losing Weight? Here’s What You Need to Know!

- Free Fat loss Guide -

1. The Truth About Weight Loss: It’s All About a Caloric Deficit

No matter what diet you follow—low-carb, keto, paleo, or high-carb—the one non-negotiable rule for fat loss is that you must be in a caloric deficit. A caloric deficit simply means consuming fewer calories than your body needs to maintain its weight.

How Do You Determine Your Calorie Needs?

To find your caloric maintenance level:

  1. Multiply your body weight in kilograms by 22–25 (depending on activity level).
  2. Use online calculators or apps like the GetFIT App, which gives you an accurate maintenance level based on factors like age, gender, activity level, and more.

From there, subtract 300–500 calories to create a sustainable deficit. The key word is sustainable—you don’t want to go too low and feel miserable.

2. Carbs and Weight Loss: Friends, Not Foes

Contrary to popular belief, you don’t have to eliminate carbs to lose weight. Carbohydrates are your body’s primary energy source, fueling your workouts and daily activities. The problem arises when you overconsume them, especially processed, calorie-dense carbs like pastries or sugary drinks.

Best Carb Choices for Fat Loss

When eating in a caloric deficit, prioritize nutrient-dense, whole food carbs that keep you fuller for longer. Examples include:

  • Oats: High in fiber, great for digestion.
  • Sweet potatoes: Packed with vitamins and slow-digesting carbs.
  • Brown rice and quinoa: Good sources of fiber and protein.
  • Vegetables: Low-calorie, high-volume options to keep you full.
  • Fruits: Great for satisfying sweet cravings while providing fiber.

Pro Tip: Combine carbs with a protein source for better satiety and blood sugar control.

3. Protein: The Key to Fat Loss and Muscle Retention

When you’re in a calorie deficit, your body doesn’t just burn fat—it may also burn muscle tissue for energy. To combat this, you need to prioritize protein.

Why Is Protein So Important in a Deficit?

  • Helps retain lean muscle mass.
  • Boosts metabolism through the thermic effect of food (TEF)—your body burns more calories digesting protein than carbs or fats.
  • Keeps you full, reducing hunger cravings.

Top Protein Sources for Weight Loss

  • Chicken breast and turkey
  • Egg whites and whole eggs
  • Low-fat dairy (cottage cheese, Greek yogurt)
  • Tofu and tempeh
  • Lean cuts of beef or pork
  • Fish and seafood (like salmon, tuna, or shrimp)

Fun Fact: With the GetFIT App’s Premium Membership, you get access to hundreds of high-protein recipes that make hitting your protein goals effortless.

4. Why Resistance Training Is Essential for Fat Loss

Cardio is often the go-to for those looking to burn calories, but if your goal is to lose fat while looking toned and defined, resistance training is non-negotiable.

Benefits of Resistance Training While in a Deficit

  • Preserves muscle mass, ensuring the weight you lose is primarily fat.
  • Boosts metabolism through increased muscle mass (muscle burns more calories than fat at rest).
  • Improves overall strength and functionality.

Best Training Approach

Focus on compound movements like squats, deadlifts, presses, and rows. These exercises target multiple muscle groups and burn more calories. Not sure where to start? The GetFIT App’s personalized workout plans cater to your fitness level and goals, guiding you every step of the way.

5. Common Struggles and How to Overcome Them

Struggle #1: Feeling Hungry All the Time

Solution: Focus on high-volume, low-calorie foods like leafy greens, zucchini noodles, or cauliflower rice. Drinking water before meals and including more protein in your diet can also help.

Struggle #2: Lack of Energy for Workouts

Solution: Eat carbs strategically—time them around your workouts to fuel performance. A small banana or some rice cakes with peanut butter before training can work wonders.

Struggle #3: Losing Motivation

Solution: Set short-term goals and track progress. With the GetFIT App, you can log your workouts, meals, and even see how your body changes over time with our progress tracking.

6. Why the GetFIT App Can Help You Reach Your Goals

You don’t have to go through the journey of fat loss and fitness alone. The GetFIT App Premium Membership offers everything you need to succeed:

🔹 Hundreds of high-protein recipes to keep you full and satisfied.
🔹 Workout plans tailored to your goals, from fat loss to muscle building.
🔹 Personalized diet plans and shopping lists, so you know exactly what to eat.
🔹 AI Coach ORION, who provides customized fitness programs and answers your questions.
🔹 Access to our team of international experts for guidance and support.

Who Is the GetFIT App Premium Membership For?

✅ Those struggling to lose weight and keep it off.
✅ Anyone who wants to build muscle and improve body composition.
✅ Beginners looking for easy-to-follow meal and workout plans.
✅ Busy individuals who need quick, effective solutions.
✅ Fitness enthusiasts seeking expert advice and tailored programs.

Start Your Journey Today—Risk-Free!

Don’t let confusion or lack of guidance hold you back from reaching your fitness goals. With the GetFIT App’s 5-day free trial, you get full access to everything—recipes, workouts, diet plans, and expert support. If it’s not for you, cancel anytime during the trial in just 10 seconds, no questions asked.

Your journey to fat loss and fitness starts today. Start your free trial below!

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