The nation’s dietitians have spoken.
The three worst diets to avoid in the New Year are the Lemon Detox Diet, the Acid and Alkaline Diet and the Six Weeks to OMG Diet.
More than 230 members Dietitians Association of Australia (DAA), took part in an online survey to uncover the worst diets to avoid in 2013.
From a list of nine popular diets, the Lemon Detox Diet was deemed the ‘worst’ by experts for the second consecutiveyear, with almost three quarters (74%) of the dietitians voting against it.
The Acid and Alkaline Diet and The Six Weeks to OMG Diet received 42% and 40% of votes for the worst diets respectively.
DAA Spokesperson and Accredited Practising Dietitian, Melanie McGrice, hopes these findings will stop Australians, particularly young women, from trying the endless array of fad diets promoted every January.
“Don’t put your health in the hands of celebrities-endorsed diets or products that make miraculous weight and fat-loss claims. Like many things in life, good health takes perseverance and commitment to a healthy lifestyle,” said Melanie.
DAA believes this is timely advice given the Association’s recent Newspoll survey of 200 women aged18-24 showing 42% are hoping to lose weight in the New Year.
“Start with small, sustainable changes like having more home-cooked meals and going for regular walks. Extreme diet measures are unnecessary and counterproductive,” said Melanie.
Four of Melanie's expert colleagues give their top tip on how to ditch the diets in 2013:
- Watch out for gimmicks or quick fixes. Being healthy takes time. If you’re lost, see an Accredited Practising Dietitian for advice you can trust. Megan Alsford, Melbourne.
- Everyone wants that miracle diet that solves all problems. The truth isn't sexy, but it works: A wholesome, nutritious, balanced diet. Bonnie Lau, Upper Mount Gravatt.
- Carbohydrates are essential for effective brain function. Low carbohydrate diets won't help you perform at your best. Susan Davis, Canberra.
- Get half vegetables, one quarter carbohydrates and one quarter protein on your plate at breakfast, lunch and dinner. Elisa Rossimel, Broken Hill.
__small.png)
