Each and every year, a brand new miracle fad diet that breaks out onto the scene. And since most of us spend our lives constantly chasing one miracle diet fad after another, we just have to hope that this is finally THE ONE. Especially as this fad is different promises to be the next big wonder cure, and all the celebs and trainers are endorsing it. So obviously we have to have to try the fat-free, sugar-free, meat-free, fruit-free, dairy-free, grain-free, carb-free wonder shake pill, even if it does sound a little weird and restrictive. Still, as most dietitians will tell you, the best diets are ones that encourage a balanced diet rich in nutrients that you can stick to. So, we’ve found some ‘fad diets’ that don’t restrict your diet, encourage weight loss and that you can actually stick to, for good.
The Best Fad Diets That We Can Actually Stick To
Mediterranean Diet
The first ‘fad’ on the list is the Mediterranean diet, which has actually been ranked by U.S. News & World Report as the No. 1 overall diet in 2019. The reason experts are praising this diet is that is that it is nutrient-rich and balanced. There’s no restrictions, you just have to eat healthy foods, like whole vegetables, fresh fruits, fatty fish, whole grains, olive oil, nuts, legumes, and some red wine, plus dairy. So since you’re eating in a healthy balanced way, you’ll be able to stick to it. Combined with exercise, it can also help fuel weight loss and support heart-health and brain health.
WW (Formerly Weight Watchers)
For years, Weight Watchers has been hailed as one of the most popular diets around for weight loss, and the company recently revamped as WW. The idea of this diet is to promote wellness and “long-lasting, sustainable changes with many studies to back this up”. The company has become more of a worldwide movement, with it’s own set of nutritional products, nutrition plans and support groups. WW also offers “tangible rewards, like fitness class passes and travel shoe bags, when members reach their goals, delivering more incentive to lose”.
Vegetarian Diet
In recent years, more and more health-conscious fans are switching to a vegetarian diet. Whether it’s for environmental, ethical or health reasons, many have already seen the benefits. In 2016, the Journal of General Internal Medicine also championed the diet as it is rich in fruits, veggies, whole grains, and plant-based protein. Vegetarians tend to pay more attention to portion sizes and there are less calories in vegetables. Studies also show the diet can also reduce the risks of heart disease and cancer. Still, since you are cutting out meat and fish, you have to ensure you take supplements or substitute foods.
Flexitarian or Semi-Vegetarian Diet
While vegetarians cut out meat and fish completely, semi-vegetarians will loosely stick to the vegetarian diet. With this diet, in case you’re still craving the protein from animal productions or a little satisfaction, you can still add small portions of meat, poultry, or fish every so often. This means you’re diet won’t be so restrictive, and you can still enjoy the health benefits of vegetarians like lowering your blood pressure and reducing the risk of diabetes, but still have a little more protein in your diet.
