Exposing the Myth of "Magical" Weightloss (Fall 2000)
It seems that everywhere you turn today there are ads promoting diets or supplements that promise quick and easy weight loss. To Your Health editor, Kathy Lehman, M.S., recently asked Chris Cox about the effectiveness of the new diet plans and products.
Editor: What are the facts about the new diet plans on the market?
Cox: When it comes to fad diets, the old adage "if it sounds too good to be true, it probably is" fits exceptionally well. Most of the weight loss programs and supplements that promise miraculous weight lose and firming of muscles without exercise are just hype and a new spin on an old plan.
Editor: The ads for the new diet products make great claims. What is the scientific basis for these programs?
Cox: I wish to emphasize that the real "science" behind weight control is the balance of calories. If you burn more calories than you eat, you will lose weight. The healthful way of achieving permanent weight loss is by eating a variety of low calorie, low fat foods and exercising 4-5 times per week. As far as the fad diets go, many of them are based on the "low carbohydrate" model. This diet allows you to eat as much protein and fat as you wish while limiting starches and sugars. Limiting carbohydrates causes the body to burn protein for energy and stimulates the formation of ketones. The ketones upset the body's normal acid/base balance and are hard on the liver and kidneys. Although most people do lose weight on this type of diet, the loss is usually short-lived because in most cases the individual does not change the eating and lifestyle habits that caused them to gain weight in the first place. Once they re-gain the weight they may opt to use a different diet plan. This pattern of losing weight and regaining it, oftentimes referred to as the "yo-yo syndrome," is very common with fad diets. Unfortunately, losing and regaining the weight is as frustrating as it is unhealthy.
Editor: What about the supplements that you hear so much about in the ads?
Cox: Consumers must be very careful as they consider purchasing diet supplements. The fact is, the long term effects of the supplements have not been carefully researched and documented. It is important to bear in mind that the manufacturer's primary motivation is to sell the product. Anyone considering using a diet supplement should consult their physician and read a variety of reliable, non-biased resources.
Editor: Is there any product that can effectively help people maintain a healthy weight?
Cox: Despite the claims of ads, there is no "magical" pill or plan that allows you to overeat, lead a sedentary lifestyle and still maintain a healthy and attractive weight for a lifetime. The key to long-lasting, healthy weight control lies in eating a well-balanced diet of fresh fruits and vegetable, lean meats and whole grain starches.