With so many diet trends out there from the Mediterranean, keto or the South Beach, as well as various weight-loss techniques, it can be confusing. Additionally, what works for one may not work for the other. It is important to pick a diet that works for you and your body. Here is a look at five popular diets.
HCG diet
One potentially effective plan is the hcg diet menu which combines a low-calorie diet plan and the human chorionic gonadotropin (hCG) hormone. The HCG diet, introduced in the 1950s, includes 500 to 800 daily and emphasizes healthy protein from fish, poultry and lean meats. Organic protein is recommended, as well as sugar-free drinks.
The HCG is also said to help speed up weight-loss results by boosting metabolism. The injections are also said to further complement the diet by reducing hunger, helping people stick to their low calorie diet.
Mediterranean diet
The Mediterranean diet has been hailed as good for the heart, as it combines healthy eating with the flavorful taste of the Mediterranean. Even the American Heart Association (AHA) recommends this diet plan, as well as the Dietary Guidelines for Americans to prevent chronic diseases and promote overall health.
One reason the Mediterranean diet is so popular is that while it is healthy, it is also tasty because it is cooked with flavorful herbs and spices natural to the Mediterranean. Olive oil is also a common staple of the Mediterranean diet, and well-liked.
DASH Diet
The Dietary Approaches to Stop Hypertension (DASH) diet, which focuses on controlling or lowering high blood pressure by eating foods that are low in sodium and high in calcium, magnesium and potassium, is another popular option. It is also supported by the National Heart, Lung, and Blood Institute, as it is rich in vegetables, fruits, fish, nuts, seeds, beans and poultry.
Because the DASH diet focuses on low sodium foods, it will be especially helpful for those who need to watch their sodium intake. It also leans away from fatty meats, tropical oils and dairy foods high in fat.
Keto diet
The ketogenic diet, which includes 99 percent of calories from protein and fat, and 1 percent from carbohydrates, is one trend that has picked up speed. Marked by the reduction of carbohydrates, it allows you to eat regular amounts of protein and maybe even higher intake of fat. The carb reduction is said to put your body in ketosis, and thus the name.
Yale researchers also recently found that the keto diet may work best in small increments. The keto diet may potentially further aid in health by reducing the risk of diabetes.
South Beach diet
The South Beach diet has been a popular favorite for over a decade with its menu of lower carbs, unsaturated fats and lean proteins while focusing on promoting heart health.
The South Beach diet is marked by three phases: two for weight loss and the third for maintaining weight.
Whichever of these diets, or others, you choose, it is important to remember that all health and diet decisions should be made carefully in consultation with your health care provider, especially if you have any chronic conditions.
