10 Signs of a Fad Diet

Written by Gloria Tsang, RD
Published in Aug 2004; Updated in Sep 2006

Low carb diets have been extremely popular in the past five years thanks to best-selling books such as "The Zone Diet," "Dr. Atkins' New Diet Revolution," etc. Our discussion board had hence been flooded with numerous messages on this topic.

A fad diet is usually defined as a diet whose popularity comes and goes within a short amount of time. The Atkins Diet, for instance, can be described as a fad diet. First published in the 1970s, the Atkins Diet fell out of favor shortly thereafter.

In recent years, the Atkins diet has become popular again, in part because Dr. Atkins revised his book and republished it a few years ago. True to fad diet form, however, the popularity of the Atkins Diet was once again shortlived. In fact, Atkins Nutritionals, Inc. filed for bankruptcy protection in July 2005.

Promises a large or fast weight loss (more than one to two pounds per week)
Does not include suggestions to consult with your doctor or a registered dietitian
Encourages you to eliminate food groups (such as grains) or eat from a limited selection of foods
Offers rigid menus that don't consider your likes, dislikes and lifestyles
Neglects active living or lifestyle changes
Provides far fewer calories than what is needed for an energized, healthy lifestyle
Contradicts what most trusted health professionals say
Depends on special products, supplements or treatments
Has miraculous claims
Relies on testimonials and anecdotes rather than scientific evidence