Losing Weight How Fads Make You Fat

You’ve heard ‘em all. Every weight loss ad on TV will promise to melt the fat with a pill or a shake or diet. If these products are as successful as the ads make them seem, then why does this industry continue to grow, and why is our society bigger than ever? The answer is simple – fads will make you fat.

You know that old saying, “If it sounds too good to be true, it probably is,” well, it's absolute truth. When you buy that pill or shake that promises a miracle weight loss cure, you’re simply contributing to an industry that preys on our need for instant gratification. We want what we want and we want it now.

Unfortunately, when it comes to weight loss, instant gratification usually means losing mostly water weight and vital electrolytes and very little fat. Sticking to a program like this for the long term may produce results that we enjoy, but leave us feeling deprived of foods we love or nutrients we need. And once we go back to eating normally, we balloon up like that blueberry kid in Willy Wonka! Why does this happen? Because we have deprived ourselves of the nutrition our bodies need to maintain a healthy metabolism. Our bodies go into starvation mode, and when fed again they fulfill the need to store fat in anticipation of starving again in the future. As a result, we end up fatter and unhealthier than we were before we started our miracle “health plan.”

The best way to combat this problem is by getting back to the basics when it comes to reclaiming your health and a healthy weight. The only way to ensure lasting weight loss is by reactivating your metabolism through a healthy diet and an active lifestyle. If you’re significantly overweight, you may also consult your doctor or a nutritionist about making a lifestyle change that incorporates realistic goals and realistic results. Take charge of your weight and your health by focusing on the long term and staying away from instant gratification.

Remember, there are legitimate programs out there to help ensure your long term success. Find one of those, and steer clear of the “miracle cures.” They just don’t work.