Popular Diets Debunked

Popular Diets Debunked

In today’s society, there are countless diets that claim to be the answer to our weight loss woes. However, with so many options available, it can be difficult to determine which diets are worth trying and which are just fads. In this blog, we will discuss some of the most popular diets and analyze why they do or do not work.

The Ketogenic Diet

    The ketogenic diet is a low-carb, high-fat diet that has gained a lot of popularity in recent years. The goal of this diet is to put your body in a state of ketosis, where it burns fat for fuel instead of glucose. Many people have had success with this diet, particularly in terms of weight loss. However, there are some potential drawbacks to consider. For example, the high-fat nature of the diet can be difficult to maintain, and it may lead to an increased risk of heart disease in some individuals.

    The Paleo Diet

    The paleo diet is based on the idea that we should eat like our ancestors did during the Paleolithic era. This means avoiding processed foods and focusing on whole, natural foods like fruits, vegetables, and lean meats. While this diet has been shown to have some health benefits, such as improved blood sugar control and reduced inflammation, it may not be sustainable for everyone. Some people may find it difficult to give up certain foods, such as grains and dairy, and may miss out on key nutrients as a result.

    The Mediterranean Diet

    The Mediterranean diet is based on the traditional eating habits of people living in countries bordering the Mediterranean Sea. It emphasizes plant-based foods, such as fruits, veggies, whole grains, and nuts, as well as healthy fats, like olive oil and fish. This diet has been shown to have numerous health benefits, such as reduced risk of heart disease and improved cognitive function. One reason for its success may be its emphasis on whole, nutrient-dense foods, rather than strict restrictions.

    The Atkins Diet

    The Atkins diet is a low-carb, high-protein diet that has been around since the 1970s. It involves cutting out carbohydrates and replacing them with protein and fat. While this diet has been shown to be effective for weight loss, it may not be sustainable in the long term. Additionally, the high levels of saturated fat in the diet can increase the risk of heart disease and other health problems.

    The Vegan Diet

    The vegan diet involves cutting out all animal products, including meat, dairy, and eggs, and relying on plant-based foods for sustenance. While this diet can be very healthy if done correctly, it may be difficult for some people to get enough protein and other essential nutrients without animal products. Additionally, it may not be sustainable for everyone, as some people may miss certain foods and find it challenging to maintain the diet in social situations.

    Overall, the success of a diet will depend on many factors, including individual preferences, lifestyle, and health goals. While some diets may work well for certain people, they may not be sustainable or effective for everyone. Before starting any diet, it is important to speak with a healthcare professional to ensure that it is safe and appropriate for your individual needs. Additionally, it is essential to focus on a balanced, nutrient-dense diet that includes a variety of whole foods to ensure optimal health and well-being. In the end, being healthy AND happy is #1 so do what’s best for you!

    XO, Ally

    New Year, New You?

    New Year, New You?

    Who else HATES that saying?  I totally get the idea of New Year, New You…BUT that saying is so overused and misinterpreted in many ways.  INSTEAD, let’s focus on continuing our healthy habits from the previous year and build on that.  If you fell out of your fitness and or eating routine over the holidays, no worries!  If you’re like me, I was surrounded by not-so-healthy foods and my workout schedule was inconsistent.  And that is A-OK!  No need to beat yourself up for that.   Start fresh TODAY and get back to your healthy pre-holiday habits.   

    Here are 5 tips for getting back on the healthy train:

    1. Get back to eating whole, nutritious foods at home:   Get rid of the processed junk food that accumulated over the holidays and fill up the fridge and pantries with healthy, fresh foods.  Review my previous post, “Healthy Eating at Home” on my blog, Click HERE
    2. Have an Accountability Buddy:  It’s been proven that having an accountability buddy will help increase the likelihood that you’ll stick to a healthy lifestyle program.  Whether it be your spouse, friend, trainer or nutrition coach, etc. knowing that someone is checking in will keep you more accountable and less chance to fall off the wagon!
    3. Reduce Alcohol Consumption:  This one seems very obvious, but the day and age that we’re living in now has probably made reducing alcohol consumption a bit more challenging.  According to medical experts, alcohol has been used MORE during the pandemic to help deal with individuals battling mental and emotional distress, loneliness and physical isolation.  With some things still being out of our control and many of us continuing to work remotely 24/7, it’s important to be aware of weekly or daily alcohol consumption.  Be proactive and make the change to reduce this habit.  I’m not saying to completely give up drinking, but maybe instead just have a glass or two on the weekends and cut out the weekday/night drinking.  For more information, visit www.alcohol.org
    4. Be more Active: Dedicate at least 5 days a week to 30-60 minutes of exercise.  Believe me, you’ll feel MUCH better when you can get up and move!  No time?  Break this up into mini workouts of 5-10 minutes multiple times per day instead!  Check out my YouTube channel for a variety of short and longer workouts fit for any fitness level HERE
    5. Soak in some sun:  I know it’s winter where most of you are located, but breaking up the work day by stepping outside for even 5-10 minutes once or twice can have such a positive impact on your day overall!  Soak in that Vitamin D and take a few deep cleansing breaths!  Of if you’re like me, take the pups out for a walk and now you both get a break from the house AND a quick workout in!

    Happy New Year and cheers to a HEALTHY and FIT 2021!

    XOXO,

    Ally