Weigh to Go: Toronto Trainer Breaks Myths Around South Asian Women’s Fat Loss

Image Source: Hindustan Times

Toronto-based fitness coach Lamisaa Mahmud is challenging stereotypes around South Asian diets and weight loss. In a viral Instagram post, she outlined five key factors that actually impact fat loss in South Asian women—emphasizing portion control, protein intake, and cultural food inclusion over restrictive dieting or demonizing staples like rice and roti.

Breaking the Myths: What Really Affects Weight Loss in South Asian Women, According to Lamisaa Mahmud

For many South Asian women, weight loss can feel like a battle between cultural food traditions and modern fitness advice. But Lamisaa Mahmud, a Bangladeshi-Canadian fitness trainer based in Toronto, is flipping the script. In a recent Instagram post that’s resonating across the diaspora, she shared five science-backed truths about what actually affects fat loss—and it’s not about cutting out rice or curries.

Key Highlights from Lamisaa’s Weight Loss Framework:

1.⁠ ⁠Portion Control Over Elimination

Mahmud stresses that you don’t need to eliminate rice, roti, or curries.

Instead, focus on portion sizes and balanced meals that include protein, fiber, and healthy fats.

2.⁠ ⁠Prioritize Protein Intake

Many South Asian diets are carb-heavy and protein-deficient, which can hinder fat loss.

She recommends adding protein to every meal—like lentils, eggs, tofu, or lean meats—to support metabolism and satiety.

3.⁠ ⁠Stop Starving Yourself

Crash diets and skipping meals can slow metabolism and increase cravings.

Mahmud encourages consistent, nourishing meals to fuel workouts and daily activity.

4.⁠ ⁠Cultural Foods Are Not the Problem

Traditional foods like dal, sabzi, and even fried items can be part of a healthy plan when consumed mindfully.

Demonizing cultural cuisine often leads to unsustainable eating habits and guilt.

5.⁠ ⁠Lifestyle and Stress Matter

Hormonal imbalances, sleep deprivation, and chronic stress can all impact fat loss.

Mahmud advises women to look beyond the plate and address overall lifestyle factors.

Her message is clear: South Asian women can lose weight without giving up their cultural identity. By focusing on sustainable habits and informed choices, they can achieve long-term health without falling into the trap of fad diets.

Sources: Hindustan Times, NDTV Lifestyle

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