WHY FAD DIETS WON’T WORK! MAINTAINING YOUR HEALTH LONG-TERM

Apr 09, 2010

I’ve often said that maintaining your health and weight is the most important factor in keeping your body in the best possible condition. Even with back, neck and spine problems, your overall fitness is the best way to ensure a lifetime of pain-free, healthy living. Fad diets that ask you to eliminate something from your diet might make you drop some pounds in the short-term, but your body needs those nutrients to function at its best:

Lack of protein can cause growth failure, loss of muscle mass, decreased immunity, weakening of the heart and respiratory system, and death.

Carbohydrates, like all foods, should be eaten in moderation. They provide the body with fuel for physical activity and proper organ function.

Eating a plant-based diet is healthiest and necessary for your body. Choose plenty of vegetables, fruits, whole grains, and healthy fats, like olive and canola oil.

Certain sugary or starchy foods are best to avoid.

Instead of taking certain important things out of your diet, the best way to stay healthy and maintain a proper body weight is to focus on your Basic Metabolic Rate (BMR). Using your age, height and weight, you can calculate the number of calories your body needs during the day. Stick to this number, and you will maintain a healthy weight, have plenty of energy and get the nutrients you need.

To calculate your BMR and learn more about how to manage your diet, check out these sites:

http://www.thedailyplate.com/

http://www.bmi-calculator.net/bmr-calculator/

http://health.discovery.com/centers/heart/basal/basal.html