HEALTH TIP #27:
Fad Diets

Are you thinking of going on a diet to lose weight? If so, be skeptical of fad diets. If the diet promises quick and easy results that sound too good to be true, well unfortunately it probably is. Fad diets usually promise dramatic weight loss in a very short amount of time. A healthy weight loss should not be more than 1-2 pounds per week. Not only can these diets be damaging to your body, but to your wallet as well.

 

An easy way to spot a fad diet is when it involves eating a very small amount of calories or completely eliminating certain foods or food groups from your diet, such as carbohydrates, milk products, fat, etc. Although this elimination may result in short term weight loss, this is mostly due to losing water weight and/or muscle mass and not fat. This weight loss is also not sustainable and most people regain the weight they lost and even more within the first year. Furthermore, eliminating foods and food groups from your diet can put you at risk of nutrient deficiencies and your body will not be able to perform to its fullest potential. Another sign of a fad diet involves taking supplements, herbs or pills that are often times ineffective and not proven scientifically.

 

Instead of looking for a miracle diet, start by making lifestyle changes, such as making healthier food choices and regular physical activity. In order to make your lifestyle changes sustainable, you first need to make a list of your long-term goals and short-term goals. Remember that your short-term goals need to be SMART (Specific Measurable Attainable Realistic and Timely). By making a few small changes at a time, you will be on your way to a healthier you. Not only will you start to lose weight, you will also feel so much better than ever before. Your body will love you for it!

 

Take care of your health, you're worth it!

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