How is it that anyone can be a self-appointed “expert” on nutrition, making false claims that are published as truth? How is it that the supplement industry (be it vitamins and minerals, protein, herbal, etc.) is not safely regulated by the Food and Drug Administration (FDA)? How did we arrive at this point where 67% of Americans are overweight or obese? (Obesity is defined as a body mass index of 30 or higher.) How can it be that collectively, The United States appears to be the most health-obsessed nation, yet it is the unhealthiest compared to other industrialized nations?
In this four part series, I will discuss the lunacy of the fad diet and supplement industries (Parts I and II, respectively), the deceptive marketing and labeling practices of the food industry (Part III), and action that we can take as concerned citizens (Part IV).
The true definition of “diet” is the food and beverages one usually consumes. Thus, we are always “on” a diet, since we require sustenance on a daily basis. Fad diets are not to be confused with therapeutic diets, such as “heart-healthy” or “low-sodium” diets. Therapeutic diets are proven to be safe and effective.
Fad Diets: The Atkins diet, The Cabbage Soup diet, The Three Day diet; these are just a few examples of the surplus of ridiculous food crazes that have disgraced the bookstores and Internet. These “diets” make false promises of fast weight loss, but never mention long-term weight maintenance. Fad diets are just that, fads, but they can have consequences just as unhealthy as being obese: the vicious cycle of weight loss and weight gain which confuses the psychological and physiological (in particular, metabolism) systems. With the mass media so intent on perpetuating the thin-obsessed message, is it any wonder why The United States has the highest incidence and prevalence of eating disorders compared to other industrialized nations? Am I the only one who is alarmed? I cannot be the only one who sees this madness.
What can you do? Know the facts. Refer to the article from Anacortes Now, “The Middle Way” (1/17/14), for sound nutritional advice. Understand that fast weight loss is unhealthy for the body, since lean tissue is lost along with fat tissue, causing the metabolic rate to drop, therefore making weight gain easier (thus beginning the vicious cycle). Healthy weight loss is at a rate of one to two pounds per week until one has reached their goal. This requires moderate (i.e. sensible) calorie restriction with a moderate (i.e. sensible) increase in exercise (one should consult with their physician first prior to embarking on a weight loss journey). It took time to gain the extra weight; it will take time to lose the extra weight. If you or someone you love is struggling with obesity or an eating disorder, you may find it beneficial to consult with a Registered Dietitian. Many health insurance policies cover out-patient appointments, although a referral from your primary care physician may be required. Ask your insurance carrier. Finally, do not get caught up in the hype. When you hear misinformation, correct it. When someone disparages their body type, counter with a compliment. And don’t disparage yourself. Enough is enough. When you take care of yourself, things will fall into place.
Source: Sizer and Whitney. (2011). Nutrition: Concepts and Controversies, 12th Edition. Wadsworth, Cengage Learning.