Comparison of Popular Weight Loss Programs and Fad Diets

There are so many weight loss and fad diets out there that it can be overwhelming when deciding which, if any, are right for you, and that is not even taking into consideration the many dieting gimics floating around. This article provides a brief overview for some of the more popular programs available and the pros and cons that go along with them.

A Quick Disclaimer

I am by no means endorsing any of these diets, but to be completely fair and honest, I have tried more than one of these diets and found some to be seriously lacking in areas, while others were more adaptable to the long term. The best diet for you is one that you can stick with long-term and one that fits into your lifestyle. You may find, like I have, that a combination of diets works best for your life, such as Weight Watchers with a SlimFast breakfast. The most successful diets are ones that change dietary and physical activity habits for life.

This article does not provide dietary advice. What it does provide is information regarding the most popular diets and weight loss options that I have found through experience and extensive research. As always, if you are interested in losing weight or changing your diet and lifestyle please do so after consulting with your physician; frequently physicians will sit down with you and help you determine which diet will work best to meet your medical and nutritional needs.

Weight Watchers

Weight Watchers works through calorie and fat reduction, while encouraging increased physical activity. Weight Watchers uses a core food group or points system eating plan. The points system that allows a daily number of points, weekly flex points, and activity points; the daily point allowance is determined based on age, gender, work or daily activity (sedentary, light, moderate, and very active); and food points are assigned by determining the calories, fiber, and fat content of foods. This program offers extensive variety while teaching meal-planning skills and healthy alternatives to high-fat, high-calorie favorites.