There’s no getting around the fact that looking and feeling your best is grounded in a balanced and healthy lifestyle. But what if getting to that place means having to lose 5, 10 or maybe even 20 pounds? No matter what your weight or what your ideal number is, what matters is how you’re going to get there. Whether you’re looking for a completely fresh start or just revamping and shifting your current nutritional plan, take a look at the 5 most popular diets out there today– one of these just might be the perfect fit for you.
Paleo Diet – The formal name for this is the Paleolithic Diet, but most of us know it as Paleo. In the last couple of years, Paleo has become a household term, often referring to a nutritional plan that only allows for lean meats, fish, nuts and non-starchy veggies. Many know this as the caveman diet – based on foods eaten by humans millions of years ago. The Paleo Diet is focused on nutrient dense produce and also puts a strong emphasis on the importance of exercise.
Raw Food Diet – You’ve probably heard a little bit about this one too, emphasizing the belief that cooking foods means losing many of the nutritional benefits found in their purest form – raw. This diet is restricted to vegetarian items and foods that have not been heated above 118° Fahrenheit. As long as you follow these two simple rules: raw & vegetarian, you can eat as much as you want. This is a great option for purists who can forgo processed and quick foods without trouble.
Weight Watchers – There’s no doubt that Weight Watchers is one of the most popular and doable diets out there. It’s been around for years and many participants find it’s a great way to find long-term success. The main points include: eating in moderation, eating a balanced nutritional plan and eating what you want – it’s all based on tracking what you eat each day. Calories are broken down into points, which makes it super easy for participants to calculate what they can and cannot eat for their maximum number of daily calories.
Mediterranean Diet – This time-tested diet has been around for centuries and is rooted simply in heart-healthy fats. Emphasis is placed on enjoying a nutritional plan that is rich in nuts, legumes, fruits, veggies and seafood – much like the countries and cultures that surround the Mediterranean Sea (like Greece & Italy). Including things like whole grains, olive oil and red wine all in moderation makes this a very popular and doable diet.
South Beach Diet – This one is pretty popular and has been for years as it’s focused on controlling hunger by getting rid of “bad” carbs and focusing on lean protein, vegetables, low-fat dairy, fruit and whole grains. In the beginning, during “Phase I,” the diet is strict and pretty limited, but as participants get adjusted to this new way of eating, they can begin to incorporate additional items like whole grains, fruit and the occasional treat.
Of these 5 popular diets, is there one that’s worked for you or is there something else that’s helped you achieve long-term weight loss success?
