While the idea of going on a diet might seem appealing to many people who want to lose weight quickly, the truth is that most diets are not sustainable or healthy in the long term. In fact, they can do more harm than good to our bodies.
One of the biggest dangers of diets is that they often eliminate entire food groups, which can lead to nutrient deficiencies. For example, low-carb diets may restrict fruit and whole grains, essential sources of vitamins, minerals, and fibre. Low-fat diets may eliminate healthy fats, such as avocados and nuts, which are essential for brain health and reducing inflammation.
Diets can also cause an unhealthy relationship with food. The restriction and deprivation of certain foods can lead to binge eating and feelings of guilt and shame, which can ultimately lead to an unhealthy cycle of yo-yo dieting.
Yo-yo dieting, also known as weight cycling, is a common pattern among dieters who lose weight quickly and then regain it just as fast. This can have negative consequences on our health, such as an increased risk of heart disease, type 2 diabetes, and depression.
Instead of going on diets, we should focus on developing sustainable, long-term healthy eating patterns that include a variety of nutrient-dense foods. This means eating plenty of fruits and vegetables, whole grains, healthy fats, and lean protein.
We can also try to avoid junk food as much as possible as they are often high in inflammatory ingredients such as sugar, refined carbohydrates, and unhealthy fats. Chronic inflammation can contribute to a range of health problems, including depression, anxiety, and brain fog, which further demotivate you and your long-term health goals.
It’s important to remember that healthy eating is not about perfection but rather about balance and moderation. It’s okay to indulge in our favourite treats occasionally as long as we prioritise healthy foods the majority of the time.
We should celebrate our bodies and focus on developing healthy eating patterns that nourish our bodies and minds. Let’s ditch the diets and embrace a balanced approach to food that promotes overall health and well-being.
Reach out to a Dietician or Biokineticist at LifeAssist for assistance with an eating and exercise plan that works for you. The service is at no cost to you. Call us now, we are waiting to hear from you.