
As the New Year approaches, the obvious things that stand out once again are the various weight-loss and dieting trends. From keto and intermittent fasting to detox teas and juice cleanses, there is a multitude of methods promising quick results. But while these claims are not proven scientifically, knowing what is behind popular diet trends will go a long way for a person in making healthier, more sustainable choices.
Keto and other low-carb diets are usually touted as the ultimate solution to weight loss. Although reduced refined carbs do help those with blood sugar control and cravings, it's not necessary to avoid them altogether. Whole grains, fruits, and vegetables offer those benefits and in fact provide essential nutrients and fibers that ensure long-term health. Studies show that balanced diets rather than extreme carb-cutting diets bring about less of that long-term effectiveness and sustainability.
Speeding up the process of losing weight is one of the factors making intermittent fasting popular. Some studies show that IF is useful for calorie control and metabolic health benefits in certain people, but it is not an all-encompassing remedy. One of the often found results in women can be hormonal imbalances or miss cycle periods when the fasting is very strict. According to experts, it is better to customize one's eating patterns instead of simply following what is trending.
Detox teas, juices, and cleanses promise to purge the body of toxins and rev it up for fat loss. However, science has shown that the body detoxifies naturally through the liver and kidneys. The so-called products may bring about deficiencies in nutrients, dehydration, and a transient weight reduction that comes almost solely from water and not fat. Nutrition is balanced and extreme cleanses cannot give sustainable results.
Fear of dietary fat has influenced much of weight loss strategy over the years. Healthy fats are included in nuts, seeds, avocados, and olive oil; these fats are needed for proper brain function, hormone production, and satiety. Withdrawing fats entirely can lead to cravings and hence overeating. Research certainly emphasizes choosing healthy fats while overall moderating calorie intake.
Exercises such as crunches or thigh workouts burn fat in the specific area, most people think. It is confirmed by science that spot reduction is largely a myth. The only way to effectively reduce body fat would be the combination of diet, cardio, and strength training altogether.
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