Unhealthy Dieting Fads Can Be Dangerous!

"No thanks, I'm on a diet…"

We often hear these words, but how often do we think of the gloomy faces and gestures that accompany them? We've come to expect that the dieter has set out on some unpleasant journey. The words are almost groaned and there are sighs which suggest the dieter is in mourning. That's all because of the perception we have about diets. They are unpleasant, nasty, painful things, aren't they?

Or so we're led to believe by all the media hype surrounding the unhealthy dieting fads that are so common these days. Detox, cabbage soup, melon only, Atkins… The list goes on and on. These are what some people call 'desperation diets'. They're certainly not appealing, you're not going to enjoy them, but they're going to 'do you good'.

Or are they?

Fantastic weight loss may soon be apparent and you'll feel greatly encouraged. But… statistics show that most people give up sooner rather than later, and even go back to their old ways with a vengeance! And no wonder! How long can you spirits if not your body survive on cabbage and melons?

Instant Gratification

Part of the problem is… We want it all, we want it now. We've become so used to instant results and instant gratification. Hardly surprising, then, that we apply the same principles to our dieting. We're disgusted by our flab? Our health restrictions are getting us down? Right! Let's shift them. Now! Deep down we know there could be health risks, but the ads are so appealing, they promise so much – and we're even prepared to pay for the instant, but unhealthy, dieting plans we secretly know won't work.

Some people are so determined to lose weight instantly that they have stomach bypass operations. They overlook the fact that these measures are intended for the morbidly obese, but they'll ignore their doctor and pay for private treatment anyway.

Are There Alternatives to Unhealthy Dieting?

At risk of sounding old-fashioned and stating what readers don't want to hear, there are some facts that can't be overlooked: in order to lose weight and have a healthy, trim body in the long-term, you need to moderate your diet by eating healthy foods and perhaps eating less; you also need to take some exercise.

Think about it. This is really great news! You won't need to avoid your favorite foods. You won't need to go hungry. You can eat what you like in moderation, and enjoy the satisfaction of knowing that your health and weight are going to be right.

Bear in mind that the real purpose of dieting is to achieve your ideal weight and keep it.

So wave goodbye to all those unhealthy dieting plans and the physical and emotional pain that accompany them. Say hello and welcome to a new shape, better health, higher self-esteem, improved moods and emotional well being. Yes, you can enjoy that cookie or piece of chocolate, so long as you know you're sticking to your plan and taking moderate exercise. Unhealthy dieting plans! Who needs them?

Frank McGinty is a teacher, counselor, and internationally published author, with lots of experience in helping people improve their lives. Would you like to overcome your weight problems - and be happy, healthy and optimistic? Discover some outstanding resources here: http://www.weightloss.fssgold.com - and claim your free weight loss report.