Updated On: 06 September, 2021 07:06 PM IST | Mumbai | Nascimento Pinto
Most fad diets aren’t really helpful. While they may lead to temporary weight loss, adopting new and poorly substantiated ways of eating can lead to problems such as low energy, paleness and unhealthy cravings. City-based dietitian Jinal Patel breaks down the fad diet culture and why one shouldn’t be swayed by it
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Following fad diets can lead to problems including dehydration, constipation and unhealthy weight loss, Image for representational purpose only. Photo: istock
The Covid-19 pandemic and subsequent restrictions have given many people the time to experiment with fad diets and constantly micromanage nutrition. This has been a culmination of the viral nature of the Internet over the years and is bound to continue. Many dieting fads such as keto diets, vegan diets and paleo diets that have become really popular are being followed by people simply because they want to reduce weight. However, they may not always work and may even have unexpected negative effects on a person’s health, according to experts.
India celebrates National Nutrition Week every year between September 1 and September 7 to stress on the importance of proper nutrition in one’s diet. In 2021, the theme revolves around ‘feeding smart right from start’, which emphasises on the need for a nutritious diet for a child, right from the time they are born. In a moment when many people are adopting new diets not only for themselves but also for their families based on viral trends, it is necessary to understand how fad diets work.