In today’s fast-paced world, the pursuit of health and wellness has become synonymous with fad diets. People diet for many reasons. Some to manage health conditions like hypertension, diabetes, heart disease, and allergies, while others to enhance physical strength. But most, to lose weight- fast! Diets like Keto and intermittent fasting that promise rapid and dramatic transformations are bait for all who want quick fixes. While it isn’t wrong to lose weight or try out dieting, going about it the right way and prioritising health is crucial.
Hence before jumping onto the bandwagon of diet trends, it is imperative to ask these intrinsic questions.
Is this approach sustainable or is it only a temporary solution?
Does it negatively impact physical health?
Do I feel good after including it in my routine?
You must reconsider dieting, if you answer NO to any of the above questions.
Here are more reasons why fad diets are not a very good option:
- Nutritional deficiencies– Restricting calories and not including all food groups, deprives the body of essential nutrients like vitamins, minerals, proteins, and healthy fats. This causes an imbalance in electrolytes, resulting in deficiencies, disrupted heart rhythm, and weakened immune system.
- Fatigue- Inadequate nutrient intake also results in low energy levels, tiredness, and lethargy as the body doesn’t have enough fuel to support its normal functioning.
- Muscle loss- Calorie restriction results in loss of muscle mass. This affects the physical strength and function of the body. It further reduces the ability of the heart to pump blood effectively.
- Sluggish metabolism- Fad diets slow down the body’s metabolism by trying to save energy due to low-calorie intake. This sabotages the weight loss efforts and people tend to eat more and gain weight as they are hungrier.
- Digestive problems– High fibre or low-carb diet can lead to digestive issues like constipation, diarrhoea, bloating, or gastrointestinal discomfort due to a lesser intake of vitamins and minerals. Restricting carbs can cause ketosis (breaking down fat into ketones for energy) which causes bad breath, headache, and fatigue.
- Mental health concerns: Fad diets can cause body dissatisfaction, low self-esteem, and feelings of guilt or failure if unable to follow the diet.
- Increased risk of chronic diseases- Diets put the body through stress, releasing the stress hormone cortisol which causes inflammation, high blood pressure, and an increased risk of heart disease. Additionally, sudden weight loss leads to gallstones.
The Right Approach
- Opt for sustainable lifestyle changes that can be maintained long-term.
- Eat a balanced diet with essential nutrients for optimal bodily function.
- Have a positive body image and relationship with food and focus on self-care.
- Acknowledge your body’s needs and preferences and make choices that work for you.
- Educate yourself about nutrition, learning to make informed food choices,
- Consult a dietician or a healthcare professional for personalised plans that align with your body and health goals.
It’s not about denying yourself a better body or healthier life but finding satisfaction in nourishing your body while enjoying the process at every step. Adopting a heart-centred and mindful approach leads to a happy, energetic, and fulfilling life.
-Content partner Happiest Health
