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Are diets all they’re cracked up to be?

One in 10 Brits will make new year’s resolutions. Many will have dieting at the top of their lists but, do diets actually work?

Despite the lure of ‘quick fix’ diets and their promise of helping us to lose weight fast, a study by plant-based food and drink specialist Alpro, which polled 2,000 adults across the UK, revealed that in 2017, 3 in 10 people admitted they were likely to have given up their challenge within the first quarter of the year. A sigh of relief perhaps, having realised you’re not the only one who will return to old habits once the weight has been lost? There are, however, many ways to rid yourself of that post-Christmas tum and banish yoyo dieting for good.

Exercise is key

Now, I’m not one for stepping outside my house, let alone digging out those old running shoes, however, getting your heart racing and body moving is a fantastic way to keep the weight off. Get yourself joined up to your local gym – or even better – find some time throughout the day to exercise in the comfort of your own home.

Healthy eating

Healthy eating doesn’t mean you are forced into a life of nothing but dry salad. Where possible, swap those unhealthy high-calorie meals or snacks for healthier alternatives and eat everything in moderation and you’ll help keep the weight off. Unfortunately that means late night takeaways might have to become a less regular occurrence!

Once you’ve made a change, stick to it

We’re all guilty of it, choosing that take away over home cooking after a long day at work. But once you’ve decided on the changes you’re going to make, stick to them. Inevitably your weight will stabilise but remember, to maintain the new you, you will need to continue with the changes you have made.

Tops tips

    • Swap unhealthy foods for healthier options. Reduce the amount of fat in your diet by replacing certain foods with healthier alternatives, such as low-fat spreads and yogurts.
    • Breakfast is the most important meal of the day. Eating breakfast will help stop you getting too hungry and snacking later on. If you do feel the need for a snack mid morning there are plenty of healthy options available such as fruit or a handful of unsalted nuts.
    • Exercise is key. If you’re not used to regular exercise, start off slow and steady, gradually building up your stamina.
    • Keep track of your weight. Weigh yourself regularly, that way you’ll know of any changes. But don’t get disheartened if you have not lost as much as you want: it’s far better to lose weight slowly, as you are more likely to keep to plan and maintain your weight.
    • Be realistic. Set yourself obtainable targets and be realistic with the changes you make to your diet and fitness.
    • Seek help and support. If you’re struggling to lose the weight on your own, there is no shame in asking for a little help. Speak with your local GP as they might be able to help. Most areas will also have exercise and dieting groups which cater for all levels and offer the support of others in the same situation as you.

* Source of statistics: www.express.co.uk/life-style/life/760559/New-Year-resolution-Britain-broken-changes-health