The document discusses several popular diets, including their basic principles and potential health concerns. It defines what a diet is and notes that diets can promote weight loss but should be done under a doctor's supervision. Several specific diets are then outlined, such as Atkins, Jenny Craig, South Beach, and Mediterranean diets. Fad diets are also discussed as being potentially unhealthy. Overall, the document provides a broad overview of different diet types and considerations.
2. A diet is simply what you eat.
A diet limits portions to small sizes and excludes
certain foods to promote weight loss. Some diets
can be short term or long term.
Diets can sometimes be bad for a person and
they should consult a doctor before starting one.
With all diets, it is beneficial for the dieter to
exercise regularly.
3. A fad diet is a weight loss plan that promises
to promote dramatic results.
Typically, they don’t result in long term
weight loss and are usually not very healthy.
Sometimes they can be dangerous to ones
health.
4. A low carbohydrate diet.
The Atkins Diet consists of four phases
◦ Induction – proteins, healthy fats and vegetables
◦ Ongoing weight loss – add nuts, berries and yogurt
◦ Pre-maintenance – add fruits and legumes
◦ Lifetime maintenance – add breads and grains
Diets like these can cause kidney failure and high
cholesterol due to the high protein and low
carbohydrates.
For more information on this diet, visit their website
◦ http://www.atkins.com/Home.aspx
5. Low calorie, pre-packaged frozen meals.
Emphasizes fruits, vegetables, whole grains, reduced
fat milk products and “heart healthy” fats.
◦ Can have lean meat, poultry, fish, beans, eggs and nuts.
◦ Limitations to foods with cholesterol, sodium, added sugars
and saturated fats.
Has no serious health concerns.
For more information on this diet, visit their website
◦ http://www.jennycraig.com/
6. Based on actual research and clinical
experience.
Helps loss excess weight. Said to be a fad diet.
At risk for high blood pressure, heart
disease, strokes, and diabetes.
For more information on this diet, visit their
website
◦ http://www.mayoclinic.com/health/mayo-clinic-
diet/my01646
7. Inspired by foods eaten in
countries that border the Mediterranean Sea.
Studies have shown that it can help protect
against chronic diseases such as heart diesase.
Having too many monosaturated fats on the diet
can promote weight gain, not weight loss.
For more information on this diet, visit the
website
◦ http://www.mayoclinic.com/health/mediterranean-
diet/CL00011
8. Low calorie diet.
Packed with natural enzymes and nutrients that help
the body reach optimal health and shed pounds.
Could cause food poisoning if food is not prepared
properly and causes nutritional deficiencies.
For more information on this diet, visit the website
◦ http://altmedicine.about.com/od/popularhealthdiets/a/Ra
w_Food.htm
9. Shakes, bars, snacks and pre-packaged meals.
Involves six small meals/snacks a day.
Effective for long term weight loss.
Four step approach
◦ Portion control
◦ Sensible eating
◦ Regular physical activity
◦ Support
Dangers of the diet include complications with sugar alcohols and poor
glycemic. This diet is not recommended for diabetics.
For more information on this diet, visit their website
◦ http://www.slim-fast.com/
10. Modified low carbohydrate diet
and high protein.
Has three different phases
◦ Eliminate cravings and kick start weight loss
◦ Lose steadily
◦ Maintain for life
Dieters should beware of high mercury levels from
too much fish.
For more information on this diet, visit their website
◦ http://www.southbeachdiet.com/sbd/publicsite/index.aspx
11. Science driven, balanced diet.
Assigns foods point values based on its
protein, carbohydrate, fat, fiber, calories, and
how hard the body has to work to burn it off.
This diet can become costly and is high in
additives, preservatives and sugar. Can also
cause vitamin deficiencies.
For more information on this diet, visit their
website
◦ http://www.weightwatchers.com/index.aspx
12. Remember to consult a doctor before starting
any diet.
