WHAT ARE FAD DIETS?
A fad diet can drastically cut your calorie intake, eliminate certain food groups altogether from your diet or require special formulas. For example, one of the latest fads is a high-protein/low-carbohydrate diet. This diet provides most of your calories from foods high in protein, such as meat, poultry, fish and dairy products. And it reduces carbohydrates in your diet, such as grains, fruits and vegetables. It also may allow foods high in fat.

Fad diets like this reduce your weight at first, but the weight loss is primarily from water and muscle mass, and not fat. So you don’t keep extra weight off in the long run. They also can have side effects such as headaches, dehydration, weakness and dizziness.

HOW FAD DIETS CAN HARM YOUR HEALTH
Fad diets that restrict certain types of foods usually lack important nutrients your body needs such as vitamins, minerals and fiber. And diets that don’t include fruits, vegetables and whole grains may increase your risk of developing medical problems, such as heart disease and certain cancers.

HOW TO LOSE WEIGHT THE SENSIBLE WAY
The best way to lose weight is with a permanent plan of sensible eating habits and regular exercise. Your diet should include a variety of healthful, low-calorie and low-fat foods. So talk with a registered dietitian about a meal plan to keep your weight under control.