More exercise or less carbs -- which is more effective

[SOE]

in losing weight? I struggle with low carbs -- I have to go out to lunch a lot for business. Example, today I got stuck going to a Japanese Restaurant. Everything they make either contains rice -- or is covered in sugar sauces.....

Is anyone successful at doing low carb when meals are often not at their discretion?

If you had to be super strict at one or the other.... is it better to work out harder -- or be stricter with the carbs?

Thanks for your help!

[Kapera_X]

I would say if you are trying to loose weight working harder would be more effective. Thats just my opinion though.

[LV40]

I limit carbs but I don't eliminate them altogether. It's whatever works for each individual, it's a matter of finding what works for YOU. Some people fare better with low carbs than others. Me, I eat lots of complex carbs like dried beans and peas, whole grains, wheat breads, wheat tortillas, barley, etc. I limit pasta and white rice and rarely eat white bread.

[Jess75]

Many people are considered the "mixed type", like the balanced ratio of proteins carbs and fats. If your metabolic type is mixed, then in order for one to reach their ultimate goal in feeling good and weight loss, then the proper amounts of "good carbs" is a must. Or else, energy levels are screwed, same with the metabolism, then you end up gaining all the weight back. Mercola has a free test! Not many people are just the "protein type."

[twiceblessed]

EXERCISE! (don't attack me - Atkins/Carb/Etc. people).

In my opinion, losing weight is all about lifestyle changes. Who cares if you lose weight for 6 months if it's going to come back. I think you have to make changes that will stick. Can you live without carbs forever? (I don't need a carb lesson inserted here by the way - been there done that! )

Bottom line is our bodies were created to be lean machines! That's why we're all getting fatter- we don't feed our muscles needs! Lean = fit = NOT FAT. Our bodies just work better when they are lean. All parts of it. I don't mean we all have to be buff body-builders and live at the gym. I just mean be fit. If we were all leaner, we wouldn't have to stress so much over "what" we eat. Proportions? Yes. But foods? No.

Again, my opinion!