The age-old question of “which is the best diet?” never seems to get old with a new favourite diet taking the spotlight for a few months or even years … it doesn’t change the facts. That in the long run, diets don’t work.

So why are diets so popular? Well, they paint a picture of health which makes it seem like the only way we will reach that standard is to buy into that specific diet. Diets are attractive because they promise us quick desirable results with minimal effort. But are they that effective? Unfortunately, in most cases, No.

Diets are short term solutions which result in short-lived results. What has proven to work more effectively are tailored dietary guidelines as prescribed to you by a professional in nutrition. It takes time, consistency and commitment to a lifestyle change to achieve lasting results.

Dieting and the associated culture aren’t so much invested in your health as it is invested in making money out of you. The dieting industry preys on people’s insecurities and then exploits that to gain popularity and capital. Some diets may be more harmful than healthful. Take, for example, the popular “Skinny Tea”/Detox diets which have become all the rage. Health bodies do not regulate these teas. It’s nearly impossible to find any reliable scientific evidence to back their claims.

Instead, what’s concerning is the use of laxatives in these products, which can result in dehydration, malabsorption which can lead to nutrient depletion, and cause damage to the lining of your gut if taken in excess. Side effects range from diarrhoea, excessive urination, cramping and even incontinence. Over-time it can also interfere with your electrolyte balance which may increase your risk of developing heart conditions.

Restrictive by nature, diets tend to create a cycle of bingeing and “good and bad” foods. Instead, enjoy the foods you enjoy, such as sweets or other treat foods in moderation, without guilt. Carbs and fats are often wrongly labelled as unhealthy. While at the same time, glorifying protein. The best way to attain a healthy diet is to include EVERY food group throughout your daily intake.

In conclusion, a balanced intake including both nutritious and fun foods which is individualised to you is the best “diet” you can embark on. And if you ever doubt yourself and need help, you can always reach out to a registered professional.

References

• Jayawardena, R., Fernando, P., Lokunarangoda, N. and Pathirana, A., 2017. Effects of the “plate model” as part of dietary intervention on modification of selected cardiometabolic risk factors in post-myocardial infarction patients: study protocol for a randomized controlled trial. Trials, 18(1).
• Nelson, Cindy and Harris, Kierstin, "The Dieting Dilemma" (2019).
• Durward, Carrie, "Fasting Diets: Are They Safe, Healthy, and Effective?" (2020).
• Buchanan, K., Sheffield, J. and Tan, W., 2017. Predictors of diet failure: A multifactorial cognitive and behavioural model. Journal of Health Psychology, 24(7), pp.857-869.
• Institute for the Psychology of Eating. (2014). 3 reasons why diets don't work. Retrieved from http://psychologyofeating.com/3-reasons-diets-dont-work
• Thompson, A., Petrie, T. and Anderson, C., 2017. Eating disorders and weight control behaviors change over a collegiate sport season. Journal of Science and Medicine in Sport, 20(9), pp.808-813.