There’s no shortage of diets that promise fast results. We’ve all heard about low or no carb diets, the 5:2 diet or the Detox diet, to name a few. But how are we supposed to know which diets are backed by evidence, and which diets are just a sham?
HCF Medical Director, Dr Andrew Cottrill, shares advice on how to spot an unsustainable diet that won’t do your health any good.
“There are so many different diets and health regimes out there, so it’s no wonder we can feel overwhelmed and confused about making healthy choices.”
The most important thing is to do your research and look at credible sources. Keep an eye out for red flags that show a certain diet might not be as good for your health as it seems.” Dr Cottrill says.
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Warning signs to look out for:
– Promises a quick fix
– Promotes ‘magic’ foods or food combinations
– Suggests certain foods alter body chemistry
– Restricts key food groups, such as carbohydrates
– Focuses on weight loss
– Claims are supported by testimonials or a single, proprietary study.
– Some diets cut carbohydrates or fats in any form or severely limit protein. Carbohydrates are your body’s fuel, and you need fat to absorb nutrients, while protein enables cell renewal – don’t fear these guys!
Diets that restrict your intake of key food groups can cause:
– Dehydration
– Weakness and fatigue
– Headaches and nausea
– Constipation
– Inadequate intake of essential nutrients
You should aim for a balanced diet, so keep it simple and eat:
1. Lots of vegetables and fruit
2. A moderate amount of cereals, ideally wholegrain
3. Lean meat, fish and poultry
4. Milk, yoghurt and cheeses
5. Limit your consumption of sugar, salt and saturated fats
6. Drink PLENTY of water
7. Limit your consumption of alcohol
And finally, complement your diet by trying to do at least 20 minutes of moderate exercise every day
Reference: Better Health