Weight control is a constant battle for most adults, and the battle usually gets more difficult as we get older. Between TV commercials, books, magazine articles, web pages, the information available on weight loss can be overwhelming. Fad diets over the years have included the exclusive consumption of grapefruit, ground beef, eggs, cabbage soup, and hot sauce, to name a few. The old saying is true: if it sounds too good to be true, it probably is. Modern society prefers a quick solution to any problem.
Any weight loss program should be thoroughly examined and researched before embarking on this type of plan. You should talk to your family doctor for advice on any weight control program you intend to start. Any medical problems you currently have or any medications you take will factor into which weight management plan is best for you. Exercise should also be discussed with your doctor if you have any physical or pain issues. A registered dietitian would also be a good professional to consult. Diets that severely limit calories to, say, 500 calories per day can be very dangerous. Although fad diets may seem appealing, the most effective and lasting way to lose weight is to eat less and properly and exercise more. Permanent weight loss is all about a commitment to permanent healthy lifestyle changes. A diet should include foods you enjoy eating, and weight loss should occur slowly and steadily.
Low carb diets are very popular. The Atkins diet is the most famous incarnation of this diet method. The Atkins diet does not require calorie counting or portion control. Often those on the Atkins diet will choke on protein that is high in calories and fat. The Atkins diet also does not require any form of exercise. This type of diet is useful if a person wants to lose weight quickly for, for example, a wedding. When it comes to lifestyle, carbohydrates cannot be permanently eliminated from the diet. Carbohydrates are the body’s main source of fuel.
The South Beach Diet is another low carb diet program. It is named after the popular neighborhood of Miami Beach. Although the South Beach Diet is low in carbs, it focuses more on consuming good carbs while restricting those carbs, along with lean protein, healthy fats, and plant-based foods for weight loss. The South Beach Diet also restricts calories to 200 calories per day.
Losing weight is all about burning calories. Fad diets usually have quick results, but the weight is usually returned just as quickly. A healthy diet consists of fruits, vegetables, low-fat dairy, lean protein, whole grains (also known as “good carbs”), nuts, and seeds. Medications and surgery are only recommended if a health problem requires rapid weight loss. Many patients experience long-term health benefits with weight loss surgery. Most over the counter supplements will make you lose more money than weight. Safety is the number one factor to consider when exploring weight loss programs and options.