Karen's Kolumn: Don't Waste Money on Fad Diets

The dieting industry is big business in America. Nearly $50 billion was spent last year on weight-loss products in this country.

Unfortunately, too many people wind up wasting their hard-earned money on fad diets, weight-loss gimmicks and products that simply do not work, said Janice Hermann, Oklahoma State University Cooperative Extension nutrition specialist.

“For many people, the idea of quick weight loss is very appealing,” Hermann said. “This is especially true for those who struggle to make changes that optimize their health. They often wind up on fad diets that, in the long run, can be harmful to their health.”

A fad diet is defined as an unreasonable or exaggerated belief that eating, or not eating, specific foods, consuming nutrient supplements or a combination of certain foods may offer quick weight loss. However, lifelong success can be achieved only through proven, science-based approaches to weight loss.

Hermann said it is important for consumers to realize there is no “super” food or “super” supplement that will reverse the results of overeating and inactivity.

“Fad diets don’t teach you new eating habits. In fact, some of them require you to give up your favorite food,” she said. “These reasons alone contribute to the fact that people don’t stick with these plans. Remember, if it sounds too good to be true, it probably is. You’re not going to lose 30 pounds in a month in a manner that is healthy and good for you.” 

Some fad diets require participants to ignore certain foods or entire food groups. Research has shown for years that a balanced diet containing a variety of foods are what it takes for good health. Keep an eye out for products that describe certain foods as “good” or “bad.”

Something else to watch out for is a product that claims a guaranteed cure or one that promotes a limited-time offer. Also, if the proof of the product is based on testimonials rather than sound sciences, be skeptical.

Spending some time in the library or on the Internet can provide a lot of information about whether a dietary product or approach is based on science and is not simply a fad.

“Losing weight and developing a healthy eating plan that you can stick to for a lifetime are not tasks that should be taken lightly,” Hermann said. “It takes a lot of hard work, determination and time.”