How to Recognize a Dangerous Fad Diet Scam

Fad diets have really come out of the woodwork as America finds itself increasingly obsessed with diet and weight-loss. However, dangerous fad diet scams jeopardize the health of Americans everywhere, so here's how to recognize one.

"You don't have to exercise!"

It would be nice if we could believe that we could lose weight without moving a muscle, but such a concept defies everything we know about human physiology. Unless you plan to starve yourself, which you shouldn't, failing to exercise will impede all attempts at weight loss. The experts recommend that you exercise at least five days a week for a minimum of thirty minutes each time. A dangerous fad diet scam won't tell you as much.

"Eliminate (Dairy, Fish, Bread)

Many fad diet scams will tell you that the secret to losing weight is the elimination of certain foods, such as dairy products or breads. While this might help you pinpoint natural overindulgences on your part, it is better to examine your diet carefully and decide which foods on which you should cut back. Eliminating a major food group is dangerous, and could lead to malnutrition.

"Take Two Pills Twice Daily"

Diet pills have been on the market for decades, and are yet another example of dangerous fad diet scams. Many of these pills will severely dehydrate you or quicken your metabolism to an unhealthy degree. If you're going to take pills in order to lose weight, make them multi-vitamins or something that will actually increase the state of your health - rather than destroy it.

"Eat Only (Eggs, Fish, Bread, Pasta)"

Rather than tell you to eliminate a food group, some dangerous fad diet scams will encourage you to eat nothing but a certain type of food. Not only will this encourage cravings for other favorite meals, but it can also lead to severe malnutrition. Your body needs a representative from each of the food groups to stay healthy, and if you limit yourself to one, you could be endangering your health.

"Guaranteed 10 Pounds Off in Two Weeks"

Since all humans are built differently, it is impossible for a diet regimen to guarantee results. Dangerous fad diets will often promise a certain among of weight loss within a specified period of time - and the amount is usually dangerous to your health. On the average diet, humans lose two pounds per week at most, which is a healthy margin. Anything more could make you sick.

"Just $295/Week for All Meals!

A dangerous fad diet scam might also encourage you to buy only their products at a "special discounted rate". This "discount" is usually non-existent, and the creator simply wants your money - he doesn't care if you actually achieve results. Furthermore, the foods purchased are usually tasteless and completely free of nutritional value, which again is dangerous for your health.

"Consume 500 Calories/Day and Feel Great!"

A dangerous fad diet scam can be easily identified if it encourages you to consume less than 1,200 calories in every 24-hour period. A 500-calorie diet will not give you the necessary nutrition for survival, and could cause serious problems with your digestive system and weight.