Why Fad Diets Fail

1. Most diets are not individualized. The diet that works for one person will not always work for another.
2. A scarcity and deprivation factor typically results in a wicked backlash. For every diet, there is an equal and opposite binge.
3. Many diets are not balanced. An unbalanced diet can affect moods, emotions, energy, and concentration levels.
4. Strict dieting can lower metabolism and lean muscle mass.
5. A large proportion of diet books are based on few facts, much speculation and inaccuracies.
6. A diet by itself is only an external solution to what is often an internal problem.

1. Eat a variety of foods.
Choose different food form each food group daily.
2. Balance the foods you eat with physical
activity to maintain or improve your weight.
3. Choose a diet low in fat, saturated fat, and cholesterol.
Obtain most of the fat you consume in the form of unsaturated fats, such as vegetable oils.
4. Choose a diet with plenty of grain products, vegetables, and fruits. At least 3 servings of vegetables, 2 fruit, and at least 6 servings of grain products daily.
5. Choose a diet moderate in sugars.
Go easy on refined sugars such as table sugar, jams, syrup, honey, pie, and cake.
6. Choose a diet moderate in salt and sodium.
One teaspoon of salt has 2 grams of sodium. Two to 4 grams per day is reasonable. The typical American diet has 5 – 10 grams daily.
7. If you drink alcoholic beverages, do so in moderation. Limit intake to 1 –2 drinks per day.