The dangers of diets

It’s not that diets don’t work… we all know that if you want to drop a dress size, a certain amount of self-deprivation and willpower will probably do it. But as nutritionist Frances Bavin explains, it’s the inevitable aftermath of a diet - the bit where your cravings finally get the better of you and you ultimately feel like a failure - that proves diets don’t work, at least not in the long term.

“The sustainable alternative to dieting is to eat real food. Give your body the right signals by feeding it with unprocessed, nutritious food. Your body needs to know it’s not in danger of starving to death – the reaction to which is a slowed metabolism and uncontrollable cravings. So we’re talking a wide variety of fresh vegetables, fruit, nuts, seeds, grass fed meat, eggs, fish and some dairy. It probably isn’t just a coincidence either why certain manufactured foods are so addictive so err on the side of caution and keep away from them. Treat with suspicion any bold health claims made on manufactured foods – the chances are that the natural alternative is better for you.

“It’s also advisable to worry less about calories. The whole calorie theory is a bit flawed – energy in equals energy out only works in a closed system - and with many other processes going on, your body is not that. You need to think more about the quality of your food, the nutrients it provides and learn to focus on slow release energy foods like protein and good fats, rather than on quick release carbs.

“An underactive thyroid, raised cortisol from chronic stress, an unhealthy balance of gut flora, food intolerance and insulin resistance can all undermine the best attempts to lose weight so check for underlying health problems. They can also respond well to healthy eating and when your body is functioning as it should, it regulates itself, craves sensible food and doesn’t need to overeat.”