Should America Stop Dieting? Should the Rest of Us Too?

Greetings!

I was reading with interest an article that urges people to stop "dieting". The title is compelling, and some of the arguments therein are also sound. Check it out (a new window will open).

The journo (journalist) in question reckons that people jump from fad diet to fad diet in the crazy trend to lose weight... no matter what.

She reckons that, in reality, all you need is a balanced diet and regular exercise. You don't need, according to her, the Southbeach diet, Atkinson's, Weight Watchers, or any other sort of food regime.

Whilst I agree in principle that the principle of a healthy weight and nutrition consists of having a nutrionally balanced diet and regular exercise, the problem with the principle alone is that you can repeat that mantra till you go blue, and it won't make a damn difference to your weight.

Here is why:

First, setting aside those who have a physiological or metabolical problem, the rest of overweight people do not follow a nutritionally balanced diet, and do not exercise on a regular basis... And even if they do exercise, the amount of fat and calories they consume on a daily basis far exceed what they eat during the day.

Second, overweight people do know the golden rule of balanced diet plus regular exercise, but they lack the motivation and knowledge on how to do it effectively.

Third, when they choose to follow a fad diet, they do it pursuant to the "instant gratification" trend our culture displays. We want results now: "No pain, and not too much effort, thank you very much!"

I do believe that fad diets are not good for you. They can be used as a boosting mechanism to lose weight quickly. However, in most instances, people return to their old habits because a diet is not an ongoing commitment. It's just a diet.

Now, you may be sick of my opinion that, for me (at least), a regime like Weight Watcher's is a good way of losing weight. But if you analyse closely what WW offers you, you'll realise that it basically tells you how to maintain a balanced diet, how much exactly you can eat according to your own circumstances, and how much exercise you need. It also gives you motivation to keep your goals in sight, and it gives you a chance to keep your development in check (through their weekly weighing sessions).

There are many other ways to reach the same goal... and if you've found one, let me be the first (or second) to congratulate you and wish you the best in your efforts.

However, if you have been struggling with weight, I do recommend that you give WW some consideration.

Remember: I am not affiliated to WW, and I do not receive any commissions from them. I am only reporting on my own personal experience, and on anecdotal accounts from others who've followed WW. As usual, I recommend you consult your health professional before you undertake any weight loss program.

Yours in health,


Jeff The Chef



For lots of delicious low fat recipes, weight loss and healthy eating tips and articles, visit www.Delicious-Low-Fat-Recipes.Com (They're so delicious... you won't believe they're good for you!).

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