With so many different diets to choose from, it’s easy to see why the average man is so confused about healthy eating. Although they may be tempting, fad diets should be avoided at all costs.
It’s estimated that the diet industry in the United States is worth nearly $72 billion.
Let’s face it, fad diet’s are very popular.
In our fast paced society, we’re always looking for the easiest path to the things that we want. But you have to ask yourself... if fad diets are so popular why do most of them fail?
1)They promote bad eating habits
One of the main reasons why fad diets fail is because they promote unhealthy eating habits.
A lot of these diets focus on either restricting important food groups, or cutting calories down to starvation levels.
When you put harsh restrictions on your diet, you’re limiting your exposure to other nutrient rich foods that are necessary for good health. Besides malnutrition, fad diets can also lead to dehydration, fatigue, and even muscle loss.
2) Causes cravings and relapse
It’s human nature to crave certain foods. Since most fads diets are highly restrictive, many people fall victim to temptation, which explains the high relapse rates. It takes an enormous amount of discipline to stick to a diet that prohibits eating foods that you enjoy.
When someone deprives themselves for too long, resentment develops, followed by a cycle of relapse and disappointment.
3)Fad diets are quick fixes
A major reason why most fad diets fail is because they are short term solutions.
A lot of people try these diets in order to quickly lose weight before a major event such as a vacation, reunion, or some other function.
The problem with this mindset is that you’re less likely to stick with it because you don’t see it as a long term investment. As a result, many people who try these types of diets will ultimately fail because they were never committed in the first place.
4) Fad diets cause stress and anxiety
The last reason why you should avoid fat diet is because they can cause unnecessary stress and anxiety. Most men have busy lives as it is, so adding extreme dieting it makes things even more complicated.
Food is a major part of life and should be enjoyed. If you’re constantly having to count calories, avoid entire food groups, or do unnatural eating rituals, you’ll add unnecessary stress to your life.
Conclusion
Fad diets promise a quick and easy way to lose weight, but are really a waste of time.
Instead of fad diets, try adopting a well balanced approach to eating. With this method you focus on eating a wide variety of whole fruits and vegetables, whole grains, lean meats, and low fat dairy products.
If you use this approach while paying attention to your portion sizes, you’ll be able to effectively mange your weight and stay consistent with your diet.
For more information about becoming the healthiest version of yourself, please subscribe to my monthly newsletter and receive a free download of the: "Ultimate Weight Loss Checklist"
Aaron Henry PA-C
Men's Health Coach
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