The traditional weight loss method stands the test of time for a simple reason:  It works!

The traditional weight loss method emphasizes a well balanced diet with a variety of foods including grains, fruits & vegetables, dairy, meat and fish.  This diet is low in total fats (especially saturated fats and trans fats), high in fiber and advocate being physically active which can result in long lasting weight loss and improved health.

This doesn't sound too exciting, and let's face it - fad diets sure do know how to hook us, don't they?  But while these diet plans might be available at a click of a button, how do you know what is safe and effective and what is just a fake catch?

A fad diet is usually defined as a diet whose popularity comes and goes within a short amount of time. The Atkins Diet, for instance, can be described as a fad diet. First published in the 1970’s, the Atkins Diet fell out of favour shortly thereafter.

How to spot a fad diet

• Promises a large and/ or fast weight loss (more than one to two kilograms per week) rather than realistic expectations.
• Does not include suggestions to consult with your doctor or a registered dietician.
• Gives the same diet to everyone or do not cater for your individual needs.
• Encourages you to eliminate entire food groups (such as grains and dairy) or eat from a limited selection of specific foods.
• Offers rigid menus that do not consider your likes, dislikes and lifestyle.
• Overlook active living or lifestyle changes.
• Provides far fewer kilojoules than what is needed for an energized, healthy lifestyle.
• Contradicts what most trusted health professionals advise.
• Depends on special products, meal replacements, supplements or expensive treatments.
• Have miraculous claims.
• Relies on testimonials and anecdotes rather than credible references from peer-reviewed scientific journals.

Fad diets are just another way of getting people to cut kilojoules.  A sure way to loose weight because your energy input (food eaten) will be smaller than your energy output (exercise + body function).

The most worrying thing about this is that while you probably will loose weight, it could also affect your health in the long term.