Fad diets are simply ineffective to lose weight, and even less so for maintaining a healthy weight over the long term, says registered dietitian Zannat Reza. “Yes, you lose weight quickly in the beginning…but most people gain it back again. This leads to a vicious cycle called ‘the yoyo effect’ where a person loses, then gains weight back, loses it again… and so on. It’s frustrating and demoralizing.”
The way to lose weight is to include a wide variety of healthy food
Many fad diets leave out entire food groups, and therefore key nutrients. For example, cutting foods such as milk products means you will miss 15 essential nutrients that milk products provide, such as calcium which is essential for healthy bones and teeth.
At the same time, over 30 studies have shown that consuming milk products can play an important role in achieving and maintaining a healthy weight.
Healthy lifestyle habits that work
Take a sensible approach to your weight and diet goals and remember that small changes lead to long-term results.
“Eat healthy, get regular activity and set realistic goals,” says Zannat. “You didn’t gain 20 pounds in two weeks, so thinking you can lose it that quickly is unrealistic.”
Find out more tips to reach a healthy balanced lifestyle at yourhealthyweight.ca >>
