In the constantly changing field of nutritional science, diets like intermittent fasting, the Keto (Ketogenic) diet, and the GM diet, among others, have attracted considerable attention
ANN/THE DAILY STAR – As our understanding of the relationship between food and well-being grows, more people are embracing diets not only for aesthetic goals but also for holistic health benefits.
Within the dynamic realm of nutritional science, trendy diets like Intermittent Fasting, the Keto (Ketogenic) diet, and the GM diet have captured significant attention, promising rapid weight loss and enhanced health outcomes.
However, the true efficacy of these diets, along with their pros and cons, demands thorough investigation. Dietary requirements are highly individualised, influenced by various factors including age, weight, height, and overall health status. What works wonders for one person may not be suitable, or even safe, for another.
Effectiveness of popular diets
Fad diets often promise rapid weight loss or health improvements within a short period and they usually involve strict rules, limiting certain foods or food groups, such as carbohydrates or fats.
Chief Clinical Dietician and Head of the Department of Dietetics and Nutrition at the United Hospital Chowdhury Tasneem Hasin highlighted the considerations individuals should make when adopting fad diets.
While these diets can serve as a stepping stone towards a healthier lifestyle, they should be approached with caution. A more balanced and sustainable approach to nutrition involves understanding the unique needs of one’s body and embracing dietary choices that align with long-term well-being.
That said, whether it’s the ketogenic diet championing high-fat, low-carb consumption, or the intermittent fasting trend promoting scheduled eating windows, each diet claims its own unique set of advantages and disadvantages.
Presently, intermittent fasting has emerged as a popular dietary strategy. The primary idea of intermittent fasting is to cycle between periods of eating and fasting, allowing the body to experience a variety of metabolic changes.
Intermittent fasting: Timing your eating window
In the 16/8 method, you fast for 16 hours each day and restrict eating to an eight-hour window for example, if you finish your last meal at 8pm, you would start eating again at noon the next day.
According to Hasin, “Ideally, intermittent fasting helps to lose weight and the main principle of intermittent fasting is metabolic switching. However, I would suggest losing weight by having a healthy diet plan – incorporating low-fat, low-carb foods and fruits and vegetables in your meal plan. I would not recommend intermittent fasting to those who have kidney or blood sugar issues and hormonal disorders as it can be a big risk factor for them.”
Her advice illustrates the critical need for personalised diet plans, taking into account individual health conditions rather than blindly following trends.
GM diet: A temporary fix
The GM diet (General Motors Diet Plan) is known for its seven-day plan, which cycles through different food groups and can indeed prompt quick weight loss. However, Hasin warned of its shortcomings, particularly in meeting the Regular Dietary Allowance (RDA) for individuals.
“Although the GM diet may help you to lose weight rapidly, it cannot be an ideal food habit,” she stated, pointing out the risk of dehydration and vitamin-mineral deficiency due to the diet’s restrictive nature. Some days might be high in certain nutrients while completely lacking in others, leading to an unbalanced intake throughout the week.
The appeal of the GM diet often lies in its variety, aiming to prevent monotony over its short course. Yet, Hasin emphasised, “A GM diet is a temporary diet plan to reduce weight, as in most cases, people after giving up the GM diet plan quickly gain the lost weight.”
She advised that the diet might be considered for short-term goals, but it does not offer a sustainable or healthy long-term eating strategy.
The ketogenic (Keto) diet: Not for everyone
Initially developed for individuals with neurological conditions such as epilepsy or autism, the Keto diet focuses on high-fat, low-carbohydrate intake to induce a state of ketosis.
“The main target of the Keto diet is to slow down brain function, especially for those who have a little agitated brain,” Hasin explained. However, she cautioned that the diet’s restrictive nature and its effects are not necessary or beneficial for everyone, particularly those without such medical conditions.
Before following the Keto diet, Hasin advises individuals to gain a comprehensive understanding of their bodily functions, especially kidney capacity, as the diet can pose risks to kidney function and overall brain health.
“No one should follow the Keto diet for more than two weeks,” she recommended, highlighting the importance of periodic breaks and regular monitoring of kidney function to avoid potential damage.
Moreover, Hasin pointed out that prolonged adherence to the Keto diet can lead to significant neurological and psychological side effects, including reduced brain capacity, irritation, and even depression. This underscores the need for careful consideration and medical consultation before starting the diet, particularly for those looking to it solely for weight loss purposes.
In search of the perfect diet plan
The notion of a perfect diet is tempting – a one-size-fits-all solution to our health concerns, neatly packaged in a set of dietary rules! However, as Hasin pointed out, individual needs vary greatly due to factors such as genetics, lifestyle, age, and health status.
What works for one person may not work for another, making the concept of a universally perfect diet more of a myth than a reality.
While nutrition is undoubtedly a cornerstone of physical health, it is just one piece of the puzzle. Regular physical activity, adequate sleep, and stress management are equally important to maintaining health and preventing disease. These elements work synergistically, enhancing the benefits of a nutritious diet and contributing to overall vitality.
Hasin noted, “Health and nutrition are intricately connected, and we cannot talk about one of these by ignoring the other.” – Ayman Anika
