A calorie is a calorie, the advice goes. Eat too many … gain weight. Eat fewer … lose weight. But many believe weight loss is more than a calorie equation, with so-called new-and-improved ways to lose weight being ever popular. Americans spend an estimated $42 billion annually on weight loss foods, products, and services. With that much money at stake, it’s no surprise there are an overwhelming number of “fad” diets and other weight-loss products on the market.
Having so many diet options makes it difficult to know which ones to trust. For this reason, The Partnership for Healthy Weight Management has developed the “Voluntary Guidelines for Providers of Weight Loss Products or Services.” The mission for these guidelines is to “promote sound guidance to the general public on strategies for achieving and maintaining a healthy weight.” According to the guidelines, effective weight management involves:
Behavior modification that includes:
Dietary intervention
Healthful eating in accordance with the Dietary Guidelines for Americans
A reduction in calories
A lowered fat consumption
An increase in fruit, vegetable, and whole grain consumption
Physical activity
Increased frequency
At least moderate intensity
Medical, pharmacological, and surgical intervention:
May be necessary for people with more serious cases of overweight and obesity
Have to be used in conjunction with behavior, diet, and physical activity modifications
It is important to look for a plan that includes strategies for maintaining weight loss. There is nothing worse than regaining the weight that took you an enormous amount of hard work and patience to lose.
Most popular diets are considered fad diets. There is no clear definition for what constitutes a fad diet. Merriam-Webster defines a fad as “a practice or interest followed for a time with exaggerated zeal.” Fad diets often promise quick results with a short time commitment. Long-term success requires permanent changes in behavior, diet, and activity.
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