What Are Fad Diets and Do They Work?
Fad diets may provide the results you are looking for, they are often short term and leave you disappointed in the long run as the results are not sustainable. Oftentimes, fad diets make pretty convincing claims that are sometimes confusing and promise “too good to be true” results. If you are considering a fad diet for weight loss efforts here are some red flags to keep in mind when deciding if a diet is right for you.
Top Red Flags of Fad Diets
- Rapid Weight Loss Claims
- Elimination of Food Groups
- Pills or Supplements Recommended
- No Exercise Required
Rapid Weight Loss Claims
If a fad diet promises rapid weight loss this should be a red flag. Oftentimes fad diets make pretty convincing claims that are sometimes confusing and promise “too good to be true” results. If you are considering a fad diet for weight loss efforts here are some red flags to keep in mind when deciding if a diet is right for you:
Promises rapid weight loss. Promises such as “lose 20 pounds in 2 weeks!” are common and tempting, because who wouldn’t want to lose that last 20 pounds sooner than later? The problem is, in most cases when losing weight this quickly, you are actually losing water weight, muscle, and/or bone, not actual fat mass. It is also more likely that you will regain this weight and a few extra pounds.
Elimination of Food Groups
Restricts or eliminates entire food groups. Many fad diets have strict regimens, menus, list of foods to avoid, or only allow consumption of fluids. When diets eliminate entire food groups, especially for longer periods of time, it cuts out foods such as whole grains, fruits, vegetables, and dairy that provide important nutrients the body needs for daily functioning. If strict regimens are followed too long, the risk for nutrient deficiencies increase.
Pills or Supplements Recommended
Recommends pills, supplements, herbs, or extracts….to melt the fat away! “Just take two capsules a day and watch the fat melt away!” Diet plans and claims such as this often utilize pills or supplements and state you do not even have to make changes to the way you eat or exercise.
The problem is many of these pills, supplements, herbs, and extracts have not been scientifically proven to be effective for weight loss. Of more concern, sometimes these weight loss aids may contain ingredients that can interact with prescription medications and cause negative consequences or harm.
No Exercise Required
No exercise required! Regular exercise is essential for overall good health and the benefits far outweigh the negatives. Exercise helps us to lose and manage our weight by increasing our metabolism which can help us burn more calories. The trick is to find the activities you enjoy whether it be dancing, running, cycling, walking, or swimming. If you are concerned about exercising safely, always check in with your doctor!
So Do Fad Diets Work?
It sounds too good to be true. If you are questioning the claim or it sounds too good to be true, it is likely too good to be true and will only provide short term results.
So, if a fad diet may not be the best route...what do you do? Try to remember weight loss can be very individualized. What works for one person does might not work for everyone.
Try to work towards lifestyle changes that incorporates lean protein, whole grains, fruits, vegetables, heart healthy fats, exercise, and behavior change. In order to have longer lasting results you need to change your bad habits, swapping them out for healthier habits leading to lifelong changes.
You may even consider seeing a Registered Dietitian to assist in helping you find the best weight management plan for your individual needs!
