Every spring and new year, fad diets make a comeback as people rush to shed weight quickly. While these diets often lead to temporary weight loss, the long-term effects can be harmful. Crash diets slow metabolism, trigger nutrient deficiencies, and may even increase the risk of heart problems. Common side effects include fatigue, irritability, hair loss, dehydration, digestive issues, and muscle breakdown.
Some examples of fad diets include the cabbage soup diet, raw food diet, five-bite diet, master cleanse, and even extreme regimens like the cotton ball diet. While the names vary, the results are often the same—short-lived weight loss followed by weight regain and health risks.
The sustainable solution is far simpler: a balanced eating plan rich in vegetables, lean proteins, healthy fats, and whole foods—paired with daily activity. Small, realistic lifestyle changes, rather than drastic restrictions, lead to lasting results. True health isn’t about crash diets or chasing unrealistic body images, but about balance, energy, and feeling good in your own skin.