Is There a Right Way to Diet?

Dear Timi,
My friend and I have an ongoing argument over the right way to diet. We both are trying to lose weight but have different opinions about the best approach. I favor the old fashion way by cutting back on food, especially junk food and snacks. My friend insists that she can eat as often and, within reason, as much as she wants, as long as she avoids food that is high in fat, sugar and carbs. Is she right?

Dear Reader,
No, she’s not – although the answer is more complicated. People have been arguing over the most efficient way to lose weight since – well, since weight has become an issue. There’s no shortage of “revolutionary” diet solutions out there, all promising you quick and lasting results. They differ mostly in their focus on particular components in your diet – such as carbohydrates, protein and fat. Are some better than others? Probably. But their success also depends on other factors. The consensus among dietitians is that controlled calorie intake is the most important issue. If you have a tendency to overindulge in certain foods, it doesn’t really matter whether they are low-fat or even fat-free. If you want to lose weight, you must keep track of your calorie intake – period. Of course, high-fat foods are also highly caloric, while low-fat foods may contain fewer calories. But that doesn’t mean that less fat equals automatically less calories. And there are no food items – not even the non-fat kind – that have zero calories.

In my opinion, the most effective diets are the ones that fit you the best. By that I mean diets that match your personality and your lifestyle. The more a diet plan demands of you, the less likely you will stick with it over time – unless you’re one of those overachievers who love pain and punishment. My advice is to stay with the approach you’ve taken, as long as it works for you. However, do make sure that you don’t deprive your body of the nutrients it really needs. When you cut back on food intake, it is especially important that you maintain a high level of nutritional quality of the food you do eat.

As for your friend, I would say, let her find out for herself what’s right for her. The only thing that really matters is that you both get what you want.

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