In this age of social media, it doesn’t take much time for something to trend. There’s no short supply of diet tips out on the internet and with a new trend coming every few days, it becomes difficult to identify what is legit and what’s not. One thing that everyone has encountered repeatedly on their feeds is some or the other kind of fad diets or tips of such sort. Fad diet refers to diet plans that claim to be effective for say faster weight loss without having any scientific proof of the same. Some fad diets might even give some results, but they are very short-lived and can lead to unhealthy nutritional habits.
Fad Diet Tips You Shouldn't Follow In 2024
Certain fad diet tips do nothing but affect your health negatively and can easily lead to nutritional imbalance, weight loss, and weakened metabolism. Here are a few fad diet tips that will do more harm than good and hence, should be avoided.
Not Consuming Gluten
Stopping all gluten intake is a very common diet tip that can be found online. However, cutting out gluten completely can lead to a deficiency of essential micronutrients and fiber. Whole grains contain gluten and are very important to consume if you are susceptible to developing heart disease and diabetes.
Eliminating Fats Entirely
Fats play an important role in one’s diet and eliminating them completely won’t do much good. Foods that primarily contain monounsaturated fat and polyunsaturated fat are in fact healthy for the body and should be consumed. Foods like avocados, nuts, vegetable oils, peanut butter, and seeds are sources of good fats and should be incorporated into your diet.
Also Read: Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS) Diet: Foods To Eat And Avoid
Juice Cleanses For Detox
Juice cleanses refer to short-term diets that only consist of juices from fresh fruits and vegetables. These juices lack adequate nutrients, fiber, and protein which are very essential for the body. Though juices can be a good addition to an already balanced diet, consuming just the liquids isn’t really beneficial for the body.
Extreme Calorie Restriction
It isn’t difficult to find a crash diet online that claims to help with weight loss with the help of extreme calorie restriction. However, it can lead to multiple issues like impaired immune function, nutrient deficiencies, and muscle loss. It is also highly unsustainable as the weight that is lost this way can come back as soon as a regular diet is started.
Also Read: Calorie Deficit-Diet: Expert Explains This Go-To Weight Loss Diet And Its Impact On The Body
Skipping Meals, Especially Breakfast
It is a common practice to skip meals, especially breakfast when someone is looking to consume fewer calories during the day. However, it affects the body negatively and leads to lower metabolism, low energy levels, eating disorders, and anxiety in the long run.
Overconsumption Of Protein
Though protein is an important nutrient for the body, overconsumption of it can put a metabolic burden on the bones, liver, and kidneys. It can also lead to symptoms like bad breath, indigestion, and dehydration over time.
Fads come and go but it is important to stick to a consistent diet and fitness regime that is balanced and varied. Eliminating complete food groups isn’t the solution, nor is sticking just to the liquids. Hence, it is advised to have a holistic approach towards a sustainable and healthier lifestyle and find the balance between a balanced diet and effective physical activity.