The Truth About Diet: What Really Works (and What Doesn’t)
- Sam Barfield
- Oct 30
- 2 min read
When it comes to transforming your body, your diet is the make-or-break factor. You can train five times a week, but if your nutrition is off… your results will be too.
At Surrey Mobile Personal Trainers, we’ve helped hundreds of clients across Surrey balance their diet without feeling starved, restricted, or confused by endless fitness jargon. Let’s cut through the noise and get to what actually works.
🥗 1. Diets Don’t Work — Habits Do
Quick-fix diets, detox teas, and “magic” plans might shift a few pounds, but they don’t create lasting change. Why? Because they’re not sustainable. The goal isn’t to eat perfectly for a few weeks — it’s to eat consistently well for life.
Success comes when nutrition becomes a lifestyle, not a punishment.
Start by tracking what you eat for a few days. Awareness creates power. Once you see where the hidden calories are sneaking in, you can make small, smart changes that stack up fast.
🥩 2. Protein: The King of Nutrients
Protein isn’t just for bodybuilders — it’s essential for everyone looking to lose fat, tone up, or boost energy. It supports muscle recovery, keeps you fuller for longer, and helps regulate your metabolism.
Aim for a palm-sized portion of protein at every meal — think:
Chicken, turkey, lean beef
Fish or seafood
Eggs
Greek yoghurt or cottage cheese
Plant-based sources like lentils, tofu, or beans
If you’re training with one of our Surrey personal trainers, we’ll help you build your meals around your body goals, energy levels, and schedule.
🥑 3. Fat Isn’t the Enemy
For years, fat was blamed for weight gain — but healthy fats are vital for hormones, brain health, and energy. The trick is to pick the right kinds:
Avocado
Nuts and seeds
Olive oil
Oily fish like salmon
Remember: portion control matters. Fat is calorie-dense, so a little goes a long way.
🍞 4. Carbs Fuel Performance
Carbs often get demonised, but your body needs them — especially if you train regularly. Whole grains, fruits, and vegetables provide energy, fibre, and essential nutrients. The problem isn’t carbs — it’s the processed kind (like white bread, sweets, and fizzy drinks).
Smart carbs give you fuel. Junk carbs drain it.
💧 5. Hydration is the Hidden Key
Even mild dehydration can tank your energy, slow your metabolism, and make you feel hungrier. Aim for around 2–3 litres of water per day — more if you’re training hard or sweating outdoors.
If plain water feels boring, try sparkling water with lemon or herbal teas to keep things fresh.
⚡ 6. Balance Beats Perfection
Nobody eats “clean” 100% of the time — and you shouldn’t try to. One meal won’t make you fit, and one treat won’t ruin your progress. What matters is what you do most of the time.
Consistency. Balance. Smart choices. That’s how you win.
💬 Ready to Get Your Diet Right?
If you’re in Surrey and want to get in shape without feeling restricted, we’ll help you build a diet that fits your life — not the other way around.






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