One size does not fit all
It is difficult for health professionals, let alone the public, to accurately estimate their daily consumption of macronutrients (fat, carbohydrate, protein) and micronutrients (e.g. vitamins and minerals). Dietary advice based on eating patterns and actual foods may be more practically useful than recommending targets for specific nutrients.
There are a number of different dietary approaches, each with pros and cons, each with a line of people queueing up to advocate or demonise it.
In reality, one size does not fit all.
Different people will be able to achieve their own health goals by following different dietary approaches.
This might be due to differences in personal preferences, lifestyles and the way their body metabolises different food stuffs. Some approaches may not be appropriate for people with certain medical conditions. It’s important to consult with a GP before adopting a new diet.
The bottom line is that any dietary approach that helps people meet their health goals cannot be considered wrong. As long as it is sustainable and has enough of the nutrients our body needs to prevent any other complications.
Although they may come in a variety of different forms, names and variations in specific details, the main dietary approaches can be grouped as:
Low fat,
Mediterranean,
Low Carb High Fat (LCHF),
Intermittent Fasting.
Within these different approaches there are a number of common factors that most health professionals would agree on:
- Limit fast foods, convenience foods and pre-packaged foods.
- Choose real foods rather than processed foods where possible. Avoid food that has had something added or taken away.
- Avoid or reduce snacking: Snacking can keep insulin levels raised which can lead to increased insulin resistance, body fat storage, and raised blood glucose levels.
- Enjoy your food: The French have the lowest rates of heart disease in Europe. One theory for this is their style of eating is more sociable and relaxed. This social element is suggested to be part of why the Mediterranean diet is beneficial for health. Taking time over food and enjoying every mouthful can lead to eating and snacking less.
We hope you find this information useful.
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