Diets That Work

Among the diets that work, the grapefruit diet is one that has been known and practiced for a very long time. The grapefruit diet primarily works on the principle that grapefruits have certain ingredient that when consumed with protein tends to trigger burning of fat and consequently weight loss. However, it has been observed that although the grapefruit diet may cause the individual to lose weight fast, however this weight loss is primarily from fluids and not fat. Hence as soon as the individual goes off the grapefruit diet, he tends to return to his earlier weight.

The common versions of the grapefruit diet require the individual to consume a small variety of foods for breakfast, lunch dinner and just before bedtime.

Individuals on the grapefruit diet are encouraged to drink plenty of water and black coffee during the day. The grapefruit diet like most low calorie diets is a moderate protein and low carbohydrate diet that which allows an average intake of 800-1000 calories per day. However, even those who are not on a grapefruit diet may lose weight if the calories are drastically reduced to such low levels. Studies have shown that, although the grapefruit is a low calorie and highly nutritious fruit that is also a rich source of fiber and vitamin C, it does not mysteriously burn fat as claimed by the grapefruit diet. The low calorie, low-glycemic index and high fiber nature of the fruit results in the individual feel full, reduce insulin levels and thereby make them consume fewer calories. Fad diets are basically defined as diets that are poorly designed to promote weight loss. In some cases a fad diet may also be a weight loss diet that become very popular quickly and then may also fall out of favor just as quickly. However there are certain fad diets that work as they are known to be effective in weight loss but they may not always be healthy diet options. These include the acai berry diet,

The Akins diet, Cabbage soup diet, the Zone diet and the South Beach diet besides others. An individual needs to realize that a fad diet is not a permanent solution to lose weight and in most cases they just provide short term weight loss. Diets that work are those that are sustained over a period of time and that include fruits and vegetables diets as they provide the body with plenty of vital minerals and vitamins. Additionally it is also necessary to be physically active and exercise regularly to lose weight the healthy way. Detox diets, on the other hand, are also known as cleansing diets as they are aimed at removing waste products and toxins from the body.

The concept of a good detox diet is to eat natural and pure foods that aid the functioning of the kidneys, liver and the lymph nodes. Hence all foods that would hinder the regime of a detox diet should be strictly avoided for the diet to work as planned. The diets that do work for most individuals do so because they have been carefully designed and planned by professional nutritionist keeping in mind the individual’s lifestyle, activity levels and calorie requirement. Hence before indulging in any fad diet one should always consult a qualified dietician so as to avoid any harmful long term effects from fad diets or going on a crash diet. Fruits and vegetables are always a healthy addition to any diet as they provide the individual with plenty of vitamin, minerals and fiber which is required for the overall functioning of the body as well as the digestive system of the individual.

Submitted on August 11, 2010