A virtual wellness program offered by the National Institute for Fitness and Sport and provided to you through your employer.
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A virtual wellness program offered by the National Institute for Fitness and Sport and provided to you through your employer.
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Fad Diets Weight loss and nutrition advice comes in hundreds of disguises. In fact, more often than not, we are unable to effectively sort through the information we see, hear, and read; especially when it comes to learning about the latest and greatest fad diets. Fad diets aren't a recent phenomenon as many of the current diets are old fad diets making a comeback appearance. However, these diets have become increasingly popular as more and more Americans become more overweight and out of shape. So how does one separate "fad" from "fact"? Ask yourself these questions when deciding if a diet is right for you:
The American Dietetic Association also offers these fad diet-warning signs:
Fad diets often involve deprivation, and usually, a lot of it. They do set the stage for failure by being overly restrictive. Foods on the "forbidden" list often become very appealing; and when we give in to our desires for these foods, we "break" the rules and may quit the plan altogether.
Additionally, many fad diets are low in calcium and fiber, as well as some other important nutrients found in plant foods such as whole grains, beans, vegetables, and fruits. Many authors of these diets advise taking vitamin/mineral supplements to replace lost nutrients. However, these supplements should be used to "bridge the gap" in healthy eating and not as replacement for nutrient-rich foods.
The truth in all this muck remains that we are eating MORE TOTAL CALORIES and getting LESS PHYSICAL ACTIVITY. This is the real reason for weight gain. Successful weight loss, which is defined as losing weight and keep it off for at least five years, is accomplished by making positive changes to both eating habits and physical activity patterns. These changes do not need to be drastic or life altering. Just two to three small changes every day can make the difference!
Weight loss is a process requiring patience and determination. You can lose weight by consuming less calories and/or increasing physical activity. It is best to combine both practices to have greater success. One pound of body fat has 3,500 calories of stored energy. If you want to lose weight, you must have a 3,500-calorie deficit for every one pound of fat loss. A 500-calorie deficit per day will yield one pound of fat loss per week. A safe and healthy weight loss is about 1/2 pound to 2 pounds per week! Remember, at the beginning of any weight loss program, weight loss may be greater due to water loss accompanying fat reduction. Below is a sample of what it takes to lose 1 pound of fat in a week.
Sample Weight Loss Plan
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