The Truth About a

1. The Truth About a

2. What is a Fad Diet? A diet that gains popularity by making weight loss look and does require exercise. easy not

3. How to spot a fad diet • Does the diet put foods into “good” or “bad” categories? • Does the creator of the diet blame weight problems on hormones or body chemistry? • Does the diet guarantee that you can lose weight without cutting calories or exercising? • Does the diet lack scientific proof? • Does the diet suggest that you buy a brand of snack bar, drink, or supplement? • Does the diet base it’s claims on supplements instead of real food? • Does the diet have strict rules about when to eat meals?

4. Popular Fad Diets

5. Are Fad Diets Safe? No! • Fad dieters often gain back weight as quickly as they lost it • Some fad diets don’t provide enough nutrients. The brain needs a variety of nutrients to function properly. • Other fad diets provide too much saturated fat which can cause heart problems and increase cholesterol levels • Fad diets can create confusion about what foods are good for you

6. What should I do instead ? • Listen to your body! Eat when you’re hungry and stop eating when you’re satisfied • Consume a diet low in fat that provides vegetables, fruits, lean meats, fiber, whole grains, and low-fat milk • Recognize that a safe weight loss goal is ½ to 2 pounds per week • Limit the amount of high fat and high sugar foods and beverages • Find ways to be active! Choose an exercise that you enjoy and will continue to do

7. ECU Nutrition Resources Free nutrition counseling for students: Student Health Services 328-6841 Or Campus Dining diningnutrition@ecu.edu For nutrition programs, contact Campus Wellness at 328-5171