For decades now, people have been coming up with a new diet every few years. There have always been debates about which one among them is the best, but there has never been any proof to show that one diet is better or worse than the other. The truth is that it depends on each individual and how the diet affects them. It is not just diets that matter, but regular workouts and a healthy lifestyle too impacts our weight loss goals.
Let us take a brief look at types of diets that have been popular in the last few years.
This diet is a plan developed by General Motors Corporation for weight loss management. It was initially started as a way to help its employees keep fit and stay productive. The system of the diet involves consuming specific foods on a daily basis. This is quite a different approach compared to other diets such as South Beach or Atkins, which involve a weekly schedule. GM diet has gone beyond General Motors and today people from all walks of life follow the diet.
The unique plan of GM diet can help you lose approximately 10 to 17 pounds (lbs) in a week. That is a pretty effective diet in my book! The main rules are to abstain from alcohol and drinking at least 8 to 10 glasses water every day. Raw fruits and vegetables and less meat is what this diet is all about. Weight loss, of course, the primary goal of this diet but it also helps you detoxify your body and improve both your physical and mental state.
This is the American Diabetic Association diet. It is a diet plan that was created by the ADA to help patients with diabetes to lower their blood glucose levels. There is no strict regimen to the diet but diabetics are encouraged to control their caloric intake every day. The diet also encourages a limit on the consumption of foods such as fried foods, fruits and of course, alcohol. The diet involves the intake of regulated amounts of fats, carbohydrates and food items that have a high level of processed sugars.
A range between 1,600 and 2,800 calories on a daily basis is recommended by the ADA diet. The amount of calories required by men and women vary. It is recommended that women aim for the lower range but if they are more active, a mid-range level is encouraged. Men are generally encouraged to take in a mid-range level of calories daily; however, those who live more active lives should consume roughly 2,800 calories every day.
This is quite a controversial diet plan but many women swear by its effectiveness. As the name suggests, this diet requires you to limit your calorie intake each day to just 1,000 calories. It gets your body to burn off more calories than you actually take in. It is recommended for women who have smaller frames and you will need a lot of discipline for the diet to work.
Women on this diet need to take 20 to 35% of calories from fats, cholesterol below 300 mg and a minimum of 5 servings of veggies and fruits. Fruits and vegetables are the main focus due to their low calorie content and their richness in fluids and fibre. As you know, foods that are rich in water and fiber make you feel satiated faster. Weakness and loss of energy can occur and light exercises can help you counteract these effects. However, if it persists, you should consult a physician immediately.
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This is a diet that has been known to be beneficial for patients suffering from cardiac ailments. It helps in the reduction of triglycerides and cholesterol. Lean meats, poultry and fish, fresh fruits and vegetables, nuts, seeds and beans are a part of this diet. You are also allowed to use olive oil and a moderate intake of red wine.
What is great about this diet is that it does not eliminate too many foods. Natural foods and fats that are healthy make a large part of this diet. It is trans and saturated fats as well as refined sweets and other foods that are eliminated from the daily diet. It is a natural approach to dieting that has all-round benefits.
[Read:Low Calorie Diet]
This diet was mentioned earlier in this post. It is a diet that was designed by Arthur Agatston MD, a cardiologist, and Marie Almon, a dietician. Although it was initially started as a way to minimize the risk of heart disease, it has become a popular weight loss diet.
This diet concentrates on the control of insulin levels in the body. During the 1990s, Dr. Agatston started the diet as he was not convinced by the AHA’s (American Heart Association) claims that a low-fat/high-carb diet reduced the risk of cardiovascular diseases. Fruits, vegetables and whole grains are an important part of this diet. What makes the South Beach diet so popular is the fact that it keeps your heart healthy and allows you to lose weight in a healthy way!
[Read:Benefits of Alkaline Diet]
There are many more diets that unfortunately cannot fit into one article; however, some of the most popular ones have been mentioned here. What you should always remember before you start any diet is to check with your physician. If you have a health condition, it is an even wiser decision to consult your doctor.
Different diet plans work in different ways for different people, so take care to choose the right one for you. Supplement the diet you choose with a healthy lifestyle and regular exercise. Once you have done this, you will lose weight the healthy way and look and feel fabulous!