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Could be harmful: 5 worst diets not to choose, and what they may threaten
There are many diets that promise to help you lose weight quickly and effectively. However, not all of them are healthy and have scientifically proven nutritional approaches. On the contrary, some diets can cause nutritional deficiencies and lead to the risk of various diseases.
About what diets are considered the worst for losing weight, doctor and health expert Ulyana Werner told to OBOZREVATEL. According to the expert, weight loss diets can be harmful because they often lead to a lack of proteins, fats or carbohydrates that our body needs.
In addition, they can create additional stress for the person. In particular, lower blood glucose levels and the resulting feeling of fatigue and weakness. Also, diets can be too restrictive in the variety of foods and the number of calories, which can lead to a lack of energy to carry out daily activities.
Paleo diet
The paleo diet, also known as the paleolithic diet or hunter-gatherer diet, is based on the belief that the healthiest foods for humans are those that our ancestors consumed during the Paleolithic era, about 2.5 million years ago.
This means that the paleo diet includes foods that were available at that time: meat, fish, eggs, fruits, vegetables, and nuts, and excludes foods that were introduced into the diet later--grains, dairy products, sugar, and industrially processed foods.
Scientists who have studied the health effects of the paleo diet have claimed positive results in reducing weight and blood pressure. However, some studies also point to negative effects. For example, the diet can lead to an insufficient intake of calcium and vitamin D, which we get mainly from dairy and grain products. In addition, experts believe that excluding certain foods can lead to an insufficient intake of carbohydrates, which can cause lower energy levels.
The DuCan Diet
The DuCan diet is one of the most popular weight loss diets, especially in Europe. It originated in France and is based on a high protein content and limitation of carbohydrates and fats.
The principle of the DuCan diet consists of four steps:
- Attack: restriction of the diet to foods with high protein content (eggs, meat, fish, seafood and low-fat dairy products) for a period of 2 to 7 days.
- Cruise: continuation of the consumption of high-protein foods alternating with vegetables for a period of time to reach the desired weight.
- Fixation: gradual addition of fats and carbohydrates to the diet for 10 days.
- Stabilization: maintenance of the new weight by maintaining a diet based on high protein and limiting fats and carbohydrates.
However, the DuCan diet is not safe and effective for weight loss. Studies have shown that the high protein content of the diet can lead to impaired kidney, liver and cardiovascular function, as well as deterioration of teeth and bones. In addition, such a diet can lead to deficiencies in important nutrients, such as vitamins and minerals, due to limiting fruit and vegetable intake.
"Master Cleanse"
The "master cleanse" diet also known as the "lemonade diet" consists of consuming a special drink containing lemon juice, maple syrup, pepper powder and water for 10 days. At the same time, food is completely abandoned.
Fans of this diet claim that it helps to cleanse the body of toxins, improve health, relieve fatigue and improve mood. However, there is no scientific evidence that this diet is safe and beneficial.
Some studies have shown that consuming lemon juice may have some health benefits, such as reducing the risk of heart disease and diabetes. However, restricting food intake can lead to a lack of essential nutrients.
The "master cleanse" diet can also have certain side effects such as headaches, dizziness, hypoglycemia (low blood sugar), dehydration, electrolyte imbalances, and gastrointestinal problems.
The blood group diet
The blood group diet is a diet based on the idea that blood groups have different nutritional needs. Its principle is that the groups arose as a result of evolution and have different food adaptations.
Each blood group is assigned its own list of foods that can be eaten and foods that should be avoided. For example, according to the diet, people with blood type O (I) should eat more meat, fish and vegetables, and avoid grains, some fruits and dairy products.
People with blood type A (II) should eat more vegetables, fruits and grains, and avoid meat and dairy products.
Although this diet has gained popularity, there is no scientific evidence to support it. Scientists have proven that blood type has no effect on what foods should be consumed. Some scientific studies have also shown that such a diet is not effective for weight loss and can lead to deficiencies in important nutrients.
It can also be difficult to follow because it limits many foods that are important for proper nutrition and health.
Gluten-free diet
A gluten-free diet excludes foods that contain gluten protein. Gluten is found in wheat, barley, and other grains. The diet was originally developed to treat celiac disease, an autoimmune disease that causes inflammation and damage to the small intestine when a person consumes gluten. However, it has become popular with the broader masses because of the belief that a gluten-free diet promotes overall health and can help one lose weight.
A gluten-free diet is good for people with celiac disease, gluten allergy or other gluten-related conditions. It can really improve their health and help avoid serious complications. However, for people who do not have these conditions, it has no proven health benefits and may even lead to inadequate fiber intake.
Moreover, eliminating gluten-free foods from the diet reduces dietary diversity. It is also worth noting that many of the gluten-free foods available on the market contain more sugar and fat to compensate for the lack of gluten, so consuming them can lead to higher calorie counts.
It is important to remember that there is no one-size-fits-all diet for all people. Each person's individual needs and conditions may differ, so it is important to consult with a doctor or dietitian before starting any diet.
The best approach to dieting is to eat a variety of foods from all food groups, limit foods high in sugar, saturated fat, and sodium as much as possible, and watch portion sizes and caloric intake.
Earlier OBOZREVATEL wrote that the doctor and health expert Ulyana Werner told about the dangers of zinc deficiency for men and women. Read here where to look for a useful trace element.
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