Diets don’t work. Unless you’ve been living under a rock, you’ve likely heard or read that phrase at least once. Culturally, we’re starting to come to that realization that all these crazy fad diets just plain do not work. Most people could probably spot a fad diet, especially those that use one food in the name, like the Egg Diet or the Cabbage Soup Diet.
Unfortunately, thanks to a new wave of diets that have emerged that are touted as “safer”, “more effective”, “not a diet”, etc., diets are becoming tougher to spot. These diets might claim they are focused on wellness, health and lasting lifestyle change. They may say they are “not about weight loss” or that weight loss may be a “side effect” of following the diet. The bottom line is: anytime someone else is dictating when, what, and how much you eat and exercise it’s a diet. Any time weight loss is either the goal or one of the goals, it’s a diet. In our culture, the word “diet” simply means, losing weight on purpose.
Look for the following characteristics to spot a diet:
· Counting calories, points, macros
· Anytime the words “weight loss” are present
· “Good foods”, “Bad foods”
· Fasting, juicing, detoxing, cleansing
· Cutting out fats, carbs, sugars, processed foods
· Food or ingredient swaps, aka, taking out the “bad” and putting the “good” in its place
· Focus is primarily on eating and exercise habits
So how do you know if a diet is a good idea? Well, for starters, it probably won’t use the word “diet”. And to be honest, it may seem a little, well, boring! Health and well-being, and general happiness and contentment don’t magically result from an overhaul of your diet and exercise habits. It comes from a consistent effort to routinely care for yourself in all the ways a body, mind and soul require care. Here are some words that would describe an approach opposite of a diet, and therefore, would produce lasting results without the resulting stress:
· Listening to your body
· Self-care
· Practicing joyful movement
· Healthy or peaceful relationship with food
· Nourishing work environment
· Prioritizing mental health and well-being
· Stress management
· Coping with emotions
· Spiritual well-being
· Adequate restorative sleep
· Supportive relationships and meaning friendships
To address these you need more than a book, a website,
a gym or heck, even a registered dietitian!
You may need a combination of routine medical care, counseling, setting boundaries with people around you and at work, making new connections, and yes, perhaps consulting with a registered dietitian who is versed in mindfulness and intuitive eating.
See how many diets in disguise you can spot!
Rebecca
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