What's The Best Diet for Weight Loss? Find Out Here!
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With so many variations of diets, it can be perplexing to figure out which one is the best. Here is a rundown of some the more well-known diets.
Low Fat
The low-fat diet is one of the most prevalent forms. Stuff says since the 1960s, its main researcher has perpetuated the philosophy that "fat makes you fat."
Although fat packs in as much as four times the energy as carbs, fasting on fat won't make you lose fat. Studies conducted by Harvard Medical School reveal that not all fats are bad.
Only some forms of fat, such as those found in fried foods, can add inches to your waistline. Monounsaturated fats in avocados and fats can actually help you lose weight.
Although difficult to follow, Eco Watch says this type of diet is suitable for individuals suffering from heart disease and diabetes.
According to Live Science, dieters need to eat a lot of grains while keeping total fat consumption to 30 percent. Foods containing saturated fats should not make up more than 10% of the total diet.
Mediterranean Diet
Medical News Today says the philosophy of this diet is based on the eating habits of people living in Greece, Crete, Spain, Portugal and the southern portions of Italy and France.
The diet places great emphasis on eating lots of fruits and vegetables, beans, cereals, seeds, nuts and olive oil. Cheeses and yogurts are allowed as well as fish, poultry and eggs.
Drinking moderate amounts of wine is also encouraged with this diet. Saturated fats should not make up more than 8 percent of the total calories consumed while fat should not consist more than 30 percent.
Low-Carbohydrate
A recent Live Science report indicates that this diet was primarily based on the Arkins diet. There are no restrictions in terms of calories.
Stanford University studies indicate that the most effective form of this diet should only take out foods containing processed or refined carbohydrates. Medical News Today says a strict low-carb diet will leave you hungry as there is there hardly any food that does not contain some form of carbohydrates.
If you do decide to follow this diet, you will need to fast on all forms of bread and sugary treats. Corn, rice and potatoes should also be avoided as these are rich in starches and carbohydrates.
Low-Calorie
High-calorie diets can cause an increase in weight which leads to the belief that reducing the amount of calories can help dieters lose weight. Although this diet is effective during the earlier stages, Stuff says it is important to note that not "all calories are created equal."
For example, 100 calories of meat is not the same as 100 calories worth of chocolate. According to the source, following this diet may also leave you malnourished as you are not getting the right amount of nutrients you need from foods deemed low in calories.