Friday, February 27, 2009

6 Diets You Can Really Stick To

By Dorthy Weatherbush

It's no secret that the number one New Year's Resolution every year is to lose weight. It's often times easier said than done, unless you have a proposed course of action. In order to have a course of action, you have to be informed on the do's and don'ts of weight loss. The following are some basic facts about different diets that are popular. Every one of these diets may not work for you, but you can learn about them and determine which one might best work with your personal situation.

1. The Medifast Diet Plan. Medifast is a meal replacement program that sends you already packaged meals ready to eat. You eat five small meals per day, with choices ranging from soups to stews to desserts to snacks to shakes. In fact there are over 60 meal options to choose from. One of the greatest advantages is the convenience. You don't have to cook or serve yourself, so the nutrition and portion control you don't have to think about.

2. South Beach Diet. The South Beach Diet may be the diet for you if you do not want to give up your precious carbohydrates. It helps you decipher between good carbs and bad carbs, allowing you to eat great and lose weight at the same time.

3. Atkins Diet. Unlike the South Beach Diet, the Atkins diet cuts carbohydrates completely from your diet and tells you to eat only lean protein, fruits, nuts, veggies, and whole grains. You can also enjoy a variety of Atkins bars and shakes to add a little variety and fun to help you get through the day. If you like dairy products and red meat, this diet is perfect for you because you don't have to give those up.

4. The Oprah Diet. This diet was recently featured on the Oprah show and is listed on her website as well. It is really more of a lifestyle change than a diet. It calls for you to slowly phase out junk foods and bad eating habits. Gradually, you begin to eat healthier foods, and learn to make better choices when eating. You practice portion control and add exercise to your life. You don't have to worry about counting calories. This diet may be a little bit hard at first, but is a more realistic plan to follow.

5. Master Cleanse. The Master Cleanse is probably the hardest of the diets, though it really isn't a diet. It is a cleanse meant to rid the body of unwanted toxins and waste. You can stay on the diet anywhere between 10-45 days, depending on your personal stamina. It requires that you drink lemonade made from fresh lemons, maple syrup, water, and cayenne pepper. This diet is not for the faint of heart and may be difficult to stay on. But if you want to lose a quick 10 -15 pounds, it may be the diet for you.

6. Just Add Water. If any of the above diet plans seems like a lot to you, always remember that if you just add more water to your diet, you will notice lots of difference in your weight, and in the way you feel. Drinking up to and more than 2 liters per day will decrease your hunger, and will also help you get rid of toxins and waste from your body. Carry a bottle with you wherever you go. You will be sure to look and feel better in no time.

No matter which diet you think is best for you, know that you can do anything you put your mind to if you are properly informed. Find more information on the diets we've discussed if you think you may be interested. Keep a journal of how you are doing on your diet once you've started, and don't give up or stop if you mess up. Healthy eating is a lifestyle change and may come slowly. Start making changes to your life today for a better life tomorrow. - 15683

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