Fed Up with Fads!

If you read this blog you know I am NOT a fan of fad diets, so today I'm hip, hip hurraying! Before the end of last year, I was asked to look into my crystal ball to predict the nutrition trends of 2006. My forecast included a rise in organics, locally grown, ethnic and whole foods, and the fizzling out of "diets." And well, I guess it wasn't just wishful thinking!

A survey released Wednesday by America on the Move found that a whopping 69% of 2,000+ adults say they're ready to go fad free. Consumers (especially men) are less likely to try a specialized or fad diet today compared to five years ago. And I don't blame them one bit. In my 11 years as a registered dietitian, I've never known anyone to lose weight AND keep it off using a fad diet. They just don't work long-term (you know the drill - you can't keep doing them, they zap your energy, make you cranky, forbid your favorite foods - they're no picnic!).

So I say phooey to fads, and hello to a healthier approach (i.e. selecting lots of delicious good-for-you foods, eating treats in smaller amounts or less often, and enjoying fun physical activities). This path has helped many folks I know (including my own hubby) shed pounds for good while feeling fantastic.

P.S. The last Hawaii photo I'll share - from my hiking adventures - fueled by positively fad-free meals like Thai vegetable curry with brown rice, hummus and falafel, and black bean tostadas with guacamole - yum!

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