Weight Loss Programs that Don’t Work
Trying to lose weight and finding yourself hitting a wall?
Weight loss can be challenging no matter the route you choose.
But when it comes down to it, some weight loss programs simply don’t work – especially in the long-term.
This article reviews which weight loss programs and fad diets you need to ditch, so that you can be on your way to seeing real results.
Weight Loss Programs that Don’t Work:
1. Very Low-Calorie Diets (VLCD) – These diets restrict your calorie intake to between 500 and 800 calories per day.
Why this weight loss program doesn’t work: VLCDs are actually intended for individuals with a body mass index of over 30, and should always be medically supervised. They are also only intended for short-term weight loss and will set you up for failure down the road.
2. Carb-Free Diets – Diets that severely restrict your intake of carbohydrates have been popular in recent years. This diet is based on the idea that carbs are often accompanied by more calories and fat.
Why this weight loss program doesn’t work: Carb-free diets are impractical and unhealthy, as your body needs carbs to properly digest proteins and to maintain a healthy heart. Lowering your carb intake is okay, but replacing simple carbohydrates and starches with complex carbs and whole grains is more effective in the long run.
3. Cleanses – A variety of cleanses are out there claim to shed the pounds in a few days. These rapid dieting methods typically involve a liquid-based diet consisting of only a handful of ingredients.
Why this weight loss program doesn’t work: Cleanses are appealing because of their quick fix claims, but in the end you’ll only find yourself starving for real food. Depriving your body to this degree cannot be managed for very long.
4. Delivery Diets – Having portion-controlled meals delivered to your doorstep sounds like a good idea. These diets are appealing because they take the thinking out of the diet.
Why this weight loss program doesn’t work: Delivery diets may seem easy, but easier isn’t always better. Most people can’t afford these diets for a long period of time, and if they can, boredom ensues. Once they stop, you’ll be left wondering how to make healthy meals on your own.
5. Supplement-Based Diets – There are tons of supplements out there (eg. Herbal Magic, Hydroxycut) claiming miraculous weight loss properties. Some aim to boost your metabolism, while others suppress your appetite.
Why this weight loss program doesn’t work: Most studies show that these supplements are not healthy and can actually disrupt your metabolism, potentially leading to other health problems.
Weight loss programs that DO work – The most effective weight loss program is one that combines exercise (both cardiovascular and resistance training) and a balanced, whole foods diet. Natural fat-burning supplements like Irwin Naturals Green Tea Fat Metabolizer can help to safely boost your metabolism, and fat-burning heart healthy omega’s like AllMax Nutrition Omega 3 can help you speed up the process.
Also ensure that you’re getting an adequate amount of protein, which actually burns more fat in digestion and helps curb cravings. A tasty low-carb, lactose-free protein supplement like Optimum Platinum Hydrowhey (I recommend the delicious vanilla) can be a big help to your weight loss efforts.
Have any questions or feedback about Weight Loss Programs that Don’t Work? Please leave a comment below…
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Thank you for visiting! Weight Loss and Training is a health blog which features all the best weight loss tips that I have learned over my 20 years of training. My background includes a degree in Kinesiology from the world renown Simon Fraser University, certification in nutritional sciences from UBC, and Personal Trainer Specialist certification from Can Fit Pro.