Nutritional information is everywhere and it seems that every week a new fad or ‘wonder’ diet or diet product is launched and marketed furiously. So how do we separate fact from fiction when it comes to fad diets?

Fad diets are popular, widely marketed diets that usually come and go fairly quickly. The majority of these types of diets are not backed by good scientific research showing that they are effective, safe and nutritionally adequate to support health and reduce disease risk.

The traditional weight-loss approach of creating an energy deficit (more energy out than in) consistently, while emphasizing a variety of healthy foods, well-balanced by moderation and including vegetables and fruit, dairy and meat/fish, grains and cereals, low in total and unhealthy fats in combination with regular physical activity, results in long lasting weight loss and improved health. This doesn't appear very exciting and often fad diets sound glamorous and novel and seem to make a lot of sense.

What we do know is that the traditional weight-loss approach has stood the test of time for a simple reason: It works, is safe and is supported by sound research.

Tips To Spot Fad Diets And Products:
- Is dependent on special products, supplements, injections or treatments
- Promises a large or rapid weight loss (more than 0.5 – 1kg per week)
- Encourages you to remove food groups (such as grains or dairy) or eat from a limited selection of foods
- Offers inflexible menus that don't consider your likes, dislikes and lifestyle
- Does not include lifestyle changes or active living
- Provides far fewer kilojoules than what is needed for an energized, healthy lifestyle
- Makes miraculous claims
- Uses testimonials and anecdotes for promotion rather than sound scientific evidence
- Contradicts what most trusted health professionals say and does not include suggestions to consult a doctor or a registered dietician.