What is a fad diet?

A fad diet is a stylish weight loss plan that surfaces from time to time, enthusiastically promoted by so-called weight loss experts. These diets promise dramatic results, but are usually not healthy and don't lead to any long-term weight loss. The weight loss plans are often followed by celebrities and other notable people, sometimes known as influencers. This draws attention to themselves, as well as to the particular diet they might be on, which encourages ordinary people to follow suit. Unfortunately, there is no such thing as a weight loss plan that works the same for everyone. The actual key to success is to find a weight loss plan that suits your lifestyle, and one that you will be able to stick to for the long term.

The truth about miracle diets

There are hundreds of unhealthy, quick-fix diets out there, ranging from the grapefruit diet to the severe detox diet. Even the worst of the fad diets will likely result in some weight loss, but experts agree that there is little point in losing weight which invariably comes back after you have completed the duration of the so-called miracle weight loss plan. Some of these eating plans are absolutely outlandish, and experts agree that there is very little nutritional value in most of them. This can be harmful to your health. Here are some of the diets recommended by influencers and other icons:

• The cabbage soup diet, which is all you are allowed to eat.
• The strict vegan diet, devoid of any animal protein, not even cheese or eggs.
• A big variety of low-carb and high-protein diets which do not benefit your health.
• A severe calorie-restrictive diet, which may allow a 'cheat' day once a week.
• A master cleanse, which can include measures such as a liver or kidney detox.

There are many others not mentioned here, but most of them are dismal flops, as you may initially lose some weight, but are bound to put it all back, plus more. Doctors have labelled these diets as absurd, as you may not get enough nutrients to stay healthy. Drastic calorie reduction can lead to fatigue, loss of energy, and negatively affect other bodily functions, from your heart to your sexuality.

How to recognise dangerous diets

Here is a list of weight loss plans to steer clear of, should they claim any of the following:

• Claim to help you lose weight very quickly, usually at least 5kg per week. This is not healthy, as it takes time to lose weight so that your body is allowed time to adjust.
• Tell you that exercise is not necessary to lose weight and keep it off.
• Limit your food choices, or exclude certain foods entirely, without offering a balanced nutrition plan.
• Some diets focus on food combinations to promote fat burning. However, research has shown that eating certain foods together does not lead to speedier weight loss.

When you set a goal to lose weight, remember that the weight did not arrive overnight, and nor will it disappear overnight. Many of the weight loss plans tend to ignore medical research, and instead rely on their own ideas and limited research, not always properly tested.

The best way to lose weight and keep it off

Going to extremes and starving yourself is not a smart way to lose weight. It can cause nutrient and protein deficiencies, which may lead to other health problems. Focus on the results you want to achieve, and opt to lose weight slowly by changing your diet and eating healthy foods. Reduce intake of sugary, refined foods to the barest minimum, and watch your portions until you are used to eating less. Most important is to get some regular exercise.

We can help

If you have embarked on fad diets which have not helped, you may find that some bodily functions have been negatively affected. This can include your sexuality, which could be causing some concern.

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