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Fad diets

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A “diet” refers to what we’re eating or our eating plan. When many people think of the word, they think about feeling hungry or not enjoying food, but that shouldn’t be the case. You and your family can eat healthy, feel full and enjoy what you eat. 

Fad diets or eating plans are often bad for you, or simply misleading. No healthy eating plan should leave out complete food groups. You should be careful if a certain eating plan is recommended by a food company.

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The “organic” diet

Including organic foods in your eating plan can be a healthy way to eat. That said, it’s more important to have a healthy base before relying on foods labeled “organic.” For example, “organic” desserts are no healthier than other ones.

If you choose to buy organic fruits and vegetables, that’s great. If you’re choosing between organic produce or none, buying any produce is still a good choice. All fruits and vegetables are good for you. Always remember to wash all of your produce well.

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The “gluten-free” diet

There are many people in the world who can’t eat gluten. For those people, a gluten-free eating plan is necessary. For most others, it’s not.

Some people say they feel better when they remove gluten from their eating plan. This is often simply a result of eating fewer processed foods. Limiting processed and packaged foods is good for all of us.

Try replacing crackers with sliced veggies. Replace white pasta with a quinoa pasta or whole-grain barley. Think about your eating plan and find ways to make it healthier without relying on diet gimmicks.

The “low carb” diet

This diet often cuts out food groups, including fruit. That’s not healthy. Instead, reduce packaged foods and sugar in your family’s meals for a healthier eating plan. For example, instead of a sugary cereal for breakfast, try yogurt and fruit without added sugar.

The “low calorie” diet

Cutting back on calories too much can cause your body to hold on to fat. This is not a good way to lose weight. You need to find a calorie balance where you take in enough and then burn some off with physical movement.

Healthy eating is important to your family’s health. And, the guidelines are simple:

  • Eat 5–9 fruits and vegetables every day
  • Switch to whole grains
  • Choose lean meats and low-fat milk products 

Following these simple rules will help your whole family feel full of energy. You’ll also feel good knowing your family has a healthy eating plan.