Man loses 14st in just eight months after cutting two foods from diet

A popular chef lost 14-stone in eight months by cutting out two foods from his diet.

Matteo Grandi, 34, found himself tipping the scales at a hefty 29 stone (185kg) when he realised it was time for a change. He says the long hours spent in the kitchen left his struggling to maintain a health lifestyle.

Matteo, from Basilica in Vicenza, Italy, decided to cut out sugar and carbohydrates from his diet as a means to kickstart his weight loss. He also incorporated more exercise into his routine and began intermittent fasting.

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Speaking to Cronaca, he said: "About eight months ago, I realised that, consumed by life and commitments, I had lost sight of my well-being-not just for aesthetic reasons but primarily for my health.

"I reached 185 kilos, perhaps more because at some point I stopped weighing myself. In June, a light bulb went off in my head: what you need is willpower; everything else follows..."

Matteo admits that consistency was the most challenging part, although he concedes his low-carb diet has "changed his life". He claims his new diet leaves his mind "always clear" and has allowed him to "double" his productivity at work.

His dietary changes have seen him eliminate processed foods from his meals, including pasta, reports Surrey Live. This alone led to a two-stone weight loss, cleared up the "psoriasis on his elbows", and resulted in improvements in his skin.

Matteo has shared that after trying "two forkfuls" of pasta, he felt lethargic, leading him to question the worth of brief indulgence. He explained: "If for 20 seconds of pleasure I have to feel bad for hours afterwards, what's the point? It's just about changing habits to follow good practices that make us feel good."

Now, Matteo sticks to two meals a day, one at midday and another at 5pm, with a focus on protein-rich foods like eggs, salmon, avocado, and chicken breast, while his evening meal is packed with green veggies, meat, or shellfish.

This health-conscious approach has even influenced his professional life, as he's introduced around 30 low-carb, dairy-free options to his restaurant's menu.

Should you remove food groups from your diet?

Nutritionist Daniele Nucci advises caution when it comes to cutting out entire food groups. He argues that carbohydrates, including pasta, should not be vilified.

Daniele elaborated: "Carbohydrates should not be eliminated. What makes the difference is the quantity. If I eat 80 grams of pasta topped with plenty of broccoli and accompanied by a source of protein, I won't have any problems, it's a complete and balanced meal. If, on the other hand, I eat 200 grams of pasta all'amatriciana, things change."

He also points out that while ditching carbs can lead to fluid loss and initial weight reduction, such results are typically short-lived.

What the NHS says about carbohydrates in your diet

The NHS has has highlighted the importance of starchy carbohydrates such as potatoes, bread, rice, pasta, and cereals in a balanced diet. According to the health service, these foods should constitute just over a third of our daily intake.

The NHS explains that starchy carbohydrates are not only a "good source of energy", but also provide essential nutrients like fibre, calcium, iron, and B vitamins. Contrary to popular belief, they contain fewer than half the calories of fat per gram.

Pasta is also recommended by the NHS as a healthy meal base, with wholewheat or wholegrain options being healthier than regular pasta.

Can you have carbohydrates in a healthy diet?

A 2022 study study said: “Foods high in carbohydrates are an important part of a healthy diet, since they provide the body with glucose to support bodily functions and physical activity.”

While a 2023 study highlighted the dangers of a low-carbohydrate diet. It said: “Several studies link low-carb diets to increased mortality. Epidemiological studies and meta-analyses have shown an increased mortality risk with a carbohydrate intake of less than 40 per cent.”