Monday, December 1, 2008

A Diet That Works

By Melissa Moore

People are continually searching for diets that work. Many go from one diet program to the next thinking this next one will be the one that solves my weight issues. Finding a diet that one can follow and stick with tends to be the real issue at hand versus actually finding a diet that works.

Examine the products and services that make up the dieting industry. There are countless numbers of weight loss products -- diet food programs, dieting guides, diet books, trainers and nutritionists. In 2005, the diet industry was worth over $46.8 billion dollars. A lot of money is stems from people trying to lose weight versus people actually losing weight. The sad truth is that the focus becomes selling method and products that are not permanent, because repeat business is what brings in the money.

Here's a diet that will result in weight loss. Limit the amount of calories that you consume each day to 1000 calories, limit liquids to water and exercise for at least 30 minutes five times a week.

But there are two problems. The first is that cravings are likely to ruin the diet. Sooner or later, particularly after returning home from work outs, those 1000 calories won't be enough to satisfy. One piece of cake, or just one bag of chips, or one extra hot dog will soon steer you to dropping off the diet. The second problem is what happens after the diet ends? What happens when the weight is gone? You'll go right back to eating the same way you ate before the diet? Then, guess what. The weight will return. Next spring, or next time to wear that dress or tuxedo, or next vacation, or simply the next time you glance at a mirror on the way out of the shower it will be time to return to a diet to lose the unwanted pounds.

The best diet is one that you follow forever. There are a lot folks that are beginning to steer from the fad diets and now understand that to lose weight, it's best to make a whole lifestyle change, including exercising regularly and eating a healthy diet.

Connie Guttersen created the Sonoma Diet which, as a base, focuses on 10 "power foods." The power foods are almonds, bell peppers, blueberries, broccoli, grapes, olive oil, spinach, strawberries, tomatoes and whole grains, combined with the diet of the Sonoma country, which includes Asian, Latin American and Mediterranean foods and dishes. It's easy to remain on this diet as it has a wide selection of real, and enjoyable foods.

Shift the focus away from a short term diet to permanent eating habits that go along with an overall healthy and active lifestyle. In so doing, you will find the diet that works. - 16463

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