Why do crash diets fail? A nutritionist explains
Nutritionist Walaa Al-Madani revealed in an exclusive interview with Al-Youm the fundamental reasons behind the long-term failure of restrictive diets . Al-Madani warned of the dangers of a sharp and sudden drop in calorie intake, emphasizing that this unscientific approach inevitably leads to extreme exhaustion and physical fatigue, ultimately causing individuals to abandon the diet entirely and revert to their previous habits, often in a worse state.
Risks and harms of strict diets on the body and mind
The nutritionist explained that many people begin their weight loss journey with excessive enthusiasm, leading them to drastically and recklessly reduce their calorie intake. This behavior deprives the body of its essential and complete needs for vitamins, minerals, and energy, trapping it in a vicious cycle of persistent physical fatigue and weakness.
The cities explained that this accumulated fatigue gradually weakens resolve and makes it extremely difficult to continue implementing any written plan, stressing the importance of self-motivation and keeping health and aesthetic goals in mind to ensure commitment and overcome the daily challenges that an individual faces during their weight loss journey.
From obsession with thinness to health awareness: The evolution of nutrition culture
Over the past few decades, the world has witnessed major shifts in perceptions of ideal weight and fitness. Since the emergence of fad diets in the late 20th century, which promoted miraculous and rapid results within a few days, society has gradually come to realize that these temporary solutions do not create sustainable health.
Historically, these restrictive diets have been associated with the "yo-yo" phenomenon (weight fluctuations), which negatively impacts metabolism and increases body fat percentage in the long run due to muscle loss. Today, global awareness is shifting towards a deeper understanding of nutrition as a holistic lifestyle rather than simply a period of temporary deprivation.
Keto and intermittent fasting: temporary solutions or a lifestyle?
In her discussion, Al-Madina addressed currently popular diets such as the keto diet and intermittent fasting. She pointed out that these diets can be used as temporary solutions for short, specific periods to break the routine and stimulate the body, but should not be relied upon entirely as a sole and continuous path to weight loss.
Prolonged reliance on systems that detect entire food groups may lead to deficiencies in vital nutrients and cause boredom and frustration for those who adhere to them, quickly returning them to square one once they stop.
Societal impact and the magic solution in nutritional balance
The shift from a culture of deprivation to one of balanced nutrition has a significant positive impact at both the local and regional levels. Locally, raising awareness of this issue contributes to reducing obesity rates and related chronic diseases such as diabetes and hypertension, thus alleviating the burden on healthcare systems and improving individuals' quality of life.
The nutritionist pointed out that the true secret to success lies in consistently eating healthy, balanced meals that include all the essential nutrients (complex carbohydrates, proteins, healthy fats, fiber, and vitamins) to ensure sustainable positive results and avoid feelings of boredom or deprivation. She concluded by emphasizing the flexibility to switch between diets, provided that a balanced and healthy eating plan remains the cornerstone of any sustainable and successful lifestyle.
