Don’t give in to the books and the talk and the hoopla! Fad diets are everywhere – most of the authors are people looking to make money and earn success by preying on people’s desperate need to lose weight. Remember- a healthy lifestyle can be achieved with your own education on good food and diet.
A fad diet can be defined as a diet becoming very popular and soon after becoming unpopular. The Atkins Diet, once popular in the 70s, has been popular again as Dr Atkins revised its book a few years ago. Atkins' popularity is probably declining once again as Atkins Nutritionals Inc. filed for bankruptcy protection in July 2005.
Here are the common signs you’ve encountered a fad diet:
- Promises a large or fast weight loss (more than 1-2 lb per week)
- Does not include suggestions to consult with your doctor or a registered dietitian
- Encourages you to eliminate food groups (such as grains) or eat from a limited selection of foods
- Offers rigid menus that don't consider your likes, dislikes and lifestyle
- Neglects active living or lifestyle changes
- Provides far fewer calories than what is need for an energized healthy lifestyle
- Contradicts what most trusted health professionals say
- Depends on special products, supplements or treatments
- Has miraculous claims
- Relies on testimonials and anecdotes rather than scientific evidence
Fad diet victim? We have all fallen for one of those books with the fancy recipes and glossy pictures promising you’ll shed pounds fast and look great. Some help in the short run but won’t sustain your health for the years to come. Don’t spend another dollar!
