As a dietitian who practises non-diet nutrition, my advice is that ‘diets’ are unhealthy for everyone. Diets tend to restrict food intake beyond what could be considered a normal, healthy diet and this has negative effects on physical health. There’s also good evidence to show the negative effects of dieting on mental health too. When [Read more…]
“I’ve heard that people can be obese but healthy inside but I was reading an article lately that suggested this isn’t really true. What’s your opinion? “
While there is a link between higher weight and increased risk of ill health, it’s important to understand that being obese isn’t a guarantee that you will get sick, just like being non-obese isn’t a guarantee you won’t get sick. Studies have suggested that it is key health behaviours that have more of an effect [Read more…]
“How much weight should I be losing each week if I eat healthy?”
The amount of weight someone loses through diet and exercise really depends on their net calorie deficit ie. how many more calories they use up in the day compared to what they consume. This isn’t always the healthiest way to think about things though. Sure, you could lose a large amount of weight quite quickly [Read more…]
“I read online that if you’re trying to lose weight you shouldn’t buy fat-free and diet products because they’re loaded with sugar. Is this true?”
This really depends on what type of product it is and whether the product is likely to be high in sugar anyway. Most lollies, for example, naturally contain very little fat but are very high in sugar so choosing a packet with “98% fat-free” on the label doesn’t mean it’s a healthy choice. I recommend [Read more…]
“I’ve been following a very low calorie diet for the past few months and have recently been experience pain in my abdomen. I was reading online that this could be gallstones, what should I do?”
The primary role of the gallbladder is to store bile, a chemical produced by the liver which helps break down fat in the foods we eat. When we eat a meal containing fat, the gallbladder contracts to release some of the stored bile to help digest the fat. If people consume a very low calorie [Read more…]
“What’s your opinion on having a “cheat day” when trying to lose weight?”
There is mixed opinion on whether allowing a “cheat day” helps people stay on track with losing weight. I believe having a “cheat day” risks people binging on high-calorie foods, which results in a massive energy surplus that makes it harder to lose weight. Instead, I recommend to my clients that they pick one day [Read more…]
“What’s your opinion on detox diets? I’m trying to lose weight and my friend recommended I try one”
Detox diet are based on the idea that harmful toxins build up in our body and cause a whole range of diseases, as well as contributing to weight gain. It is worth pointing out that our body is full equipped with its own detoxification systems, including the liver and the lymphatic system, so it can [Read more…]
