There is a proliferation of weight-loss diets, not all of which are good for you.

Many of us have attempted to lose weight at one time or another, and the natural weight loss tendency is to look for a fast and easy way to shed that extra weight. As a result, weight loss is now a multi-billion-dollar industry, encompassing everything from diet books and slimming clubs to weight-loss programs selling specially formulated foods and medications.

Think long-term

Weight loss is difficult and there are no miracle solutions. To lose weight and keep it off takes time and commitment. Many popular programs appear to fulfill their promises in the short-term by restricting certain food groups for example. However, these rarely teach you how to establish and maintain healthy eating habits in the long-term and, once you return to your old eating habits, your lost weight quickly returns.
Seeking medical advice

Before beginning any weight loss program, especially very low-calorie or quick weight-loss types, talk to your doctor, especially if you are on any medication since the dose may have to be adjusted. Your doctor will monitor your progress and help you determine how much and what type of exercise is appropriate. He or she may also advise you to take vitamin and mineral supplements while you are on the diet program. In general, weight loss programs should not be undertaken by women who are pregnant or breast-feeding or by anyone under the age of 18. If you are in one of these categories and are concerned about your weight, seek advice from your doctor.

The diet directory

At Free Diet Programs, we provide you with information on many of the most popular diet programs currently available, and guidance about what to expect if you choose a particular program, including a sample day's menu from each one. We also look at the potential health benefits or hazards of each one.
There are many types of diets. Some limit certain macronutrients, such as fat or carbohydrates; others limit types of food, such as starchy carbohydrates. Some promote specific foods, such as grapefruit or cabbage soup, while others attempt to regulate your intake according to a strict formula, such as 40 percent carbohydrate: 30 percent protein: 30 percent fat.

However, other diet programs are based on theories that our bodies do not tolerate certain foods and that these must be eliminated from the diet. Most diets are aimed at helping you lose weight, but others promise a disease-free life to those who follow the program. When evaluating each of these diet plans, consider what it promises. We firmly believe that there is no single best way for everyone to lose weight; most weight-loss diets work for some people; none works for everyone. However, with a little trial and error, everyone should be able to find a diet program that is effective for them.

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