Fad Diets: Do They Work?

Fad diets are nothing new. They have been around for a long time and continue to fascinate dieters, who are searching for a quick and easy way to lose weight. There are so many fad diets out on the market. They appeal to a broad range of dieters. For example, there is the controlled carbohydrates diet that includes such plans as Dr. Atkins' New Diet Revolution, and Protein Power. These diets suggest that weight can be lost by limiting carbohydrates in the diet and replacing these with more protein. Then there is the controlled portion size diet such as Dr. Shapiro's Picture Perfect Weight Loss. Liquid diets remain popular. The most well known is Slim Fast, that promises quick results just from drinking two shakes a day over a period of time.

But if fad diets do not provide any long term benefits, why are people still willing to try them and why are they so popular? Some dieters are willing to try just about anything that promises them quick and easy results because they are so keen to lose excess weight and look and feel better. They may also worry about the future and wish to avoid contracting any weight-related diseases. Companies who promote these fad diets are well aware of this and they take advantage of people's fears and concerns. The companies appeal to people's fears and then fit their advertising around promoting a quick and easy scheme that will give them what they want. The reason this advertising is so popular is because dieters want to take part in a diet that will offer them quick results with very little effort on their part. Fad diets do not go on to mention the long term changes that will be required to remain healthy. When was the last time you saw a commercial that said drink this and then make sure you exercise 3 to 6 times a week? Exercise is not mentioned. The emphasis is placed on what the product will do for the body. Fad diets are also popular because they can work over the short term. For most of these, when dieters stop eating certain types of foods, or combinations of foods, they are getting fewer calories than they normally would. The dieter will also be paying much more attention to what he or she is eating. The weight loss can be explained quite simply. Much of the weight lost will be water and from lean muscle, rather than from body fat. The weight loss is hard to maintain because fad diets tend to restrict many foods, labeling them as "bad" and it can be tiring to eat the same foods over and over again. That is when people who start fad diets usually return to their normal eating pattern. The weight that was lost is then gained back again. Some dieters report gaining back more weight than was lost. People who are serious about losing weight would do well to avoid fad diets. They are not always easy to spot. As a general rule though, keep a look out for diets that promote any of the following:

* They claim to help you lose weight quickly (more than 1 or 2 pounds in a week). Bear in mind, that the excess weight you carry took time to gain. It will not be a quick and simple task to then lose it over such a short space of time.

*If a diet promises that you will be able to lose weight and keep it off without giving up "fatty" food or exercising be wary. Remember that if it sounds too good to be true, it most probably is.

*Do not be swayed by so-called "before" and "after" pictures. How can you be sure that these are real?

* Testimonials from clients or "experts" in weight loss, science or nutrition. These people may appear to make the diet sound legitimate, but have you considered that these people are more likely being paid to advertise the diet?

* If you are told to limit the types of food you eat and are not encouraged to eat a more balanced diet by eating a variety of foods, this is another con and you should avoid it.

Now that you have a better idea of what to avoid, we can take a look at a healthier approach to weight loss that can work for you. To start off with, consult your doctor and see what you come up with together. He or she is more qualified in helping you develop a weight loss plan that is safe and right for you. The following suggestions will help you achieve your goal of losing weight.

*Make sure you eat breakfast every day. It is the best way to provide the fuel your body needs in the morning. Do not skip meals later on in the day either. Each meal is important.

* Vary your diet to include whole grains, fruit and vegetables so that your body is receiving the daily amount of nutrients.

*Limit your daily intake of saturated fat, cholesterol and sodium. Learn to appreciate food using different seasonings, such as herbs and spices.

*Limit the amount of sugar in the diet, as high-sugar foods contain a lot of calories and are often low in nutritional content.

*Limit the amount of sugary drinks and alcohol that you consume. They are full of calories and do not provide much in the way of nutritional content. Try freshly squeezed juices instead.

*Reduce portions sizes.

*Exercise regularly. Choose an activity that enjoy and you will be able to keep it up more easily. Aim for between 30-60 minutes of exercise 4 to 6 times each week.

If you are serious about losing weight it will not happen overnight. Rather than put your health at risk by trying the newest fad diet that has come out onto the market, try to reduce your weight by implementing the healthier suggestions mentioned above. Granted, it will take longer and you will not see immediate results, but when you do, the results will be genuine, not a quick fix that will be difficult to maintain over time. A balanced, nutritious diet need not remain static, as fad diets do. Change the types of fruits and vegetables you are eating and try new, fresh ingredients. This can help prevent boredom and make it easier to eat a healthier diet that is fun and easy to maintain. For any real weight loss regime to be successful, it is important to exercise. Remember that if it sounds too good to be true, it probably is. So do yourself a favour and stay clear of fad diets. They will not do you any good in the long term.

Source:

http://familydoctor.org/784.xml