SOMA Living May 2025

HEALTH & WELLNESS

Photos by Megan Yates

Individual metabolic rates vary due to genetics, age, sex, and body composition. A calorie deficit for one may not apply to another. Factors such as stress, sleep quality, and gut microbiome composition also significantly affect how bodies process and store energy.

Managing fat loss involves more than just the “calories in, calories out” (CICO) principle. While energy balance plays a role, multiple biological factors contribute to the process. Focusing solely on willpower and arithmetic neglects critical scientific insights. Hormones exert significant influence over fat loss. Insulin resistance, often linked to high-carbohydrate diets and sedentary lifestyles, hinders the body’s ability to access stored fat even with a calorie deficit. Leptin and ghrelin, hormones that regulate appetite and satiety, must function properly to support consistent weight management. The quality of consumed calories is crucial. Nutrient-dense whole foods differ metabolically from processed snacks. Whole foods offer essential vitamins, minerals, and fiber that support metabolic health and satiety. Conversely, processed foods can cause blood sugar spikes, inflammation, and increased fat storage.

Effective body management demands more than a simple equation. Embrace a holistic approach, emphasizing nutrient-rich foods, regular exercise, stress management, and adequate sleep. This method promises more sustainable and healthy results than mere calorie counting. If you’re ready to explore working with your body in a comprehensive way, feel free to reach out! My team and I are eager to help you figure things out and build healthy habits that last for LIFE.

Callie is a licensed registered dietitian nutritionist specializing in women’s health and wellbeing, holds a masters of public health from NYU and is a certified personal trainer. She has served on the board of the Greater New York Dietetics Association and has been featured in Huffington Post, USNews, TheThirty, Insider, Healthline, Elite Daily and the Hormonally Yours Podcast. Follow Callie on Instagram, Linkedin and TikTok

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