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Health & Nutrition: Human Nutrition

How do I know if a diet is good?

Before you try a reducing diet you've heard or read about, be sure it's nutritionally sound. Here are some guidelines to consider when you are deciding on a weight-reducing diet plan:

• Are there fewer calories in the weight-loss diet than in foods you normally eat? You can only lose weight by reducing your calorie intake below what your body needs and uses.

• Is it made up of appealing food that you will enjoy, not just for several weeks or months, but the rest of your life? Weight control is a life-long process.

• Are the foods available where you usually shop? If products are not easily obtainable, you may lose interest in the diet.

• Does the plan include a variety of foods from these groups? fruits; 2) vegetables; 3) breads, cereals, rice, and pasta; 4) milk, cheese, and yogurt; and 5) meat, poultry, fish, dry beans, eggs, and nuts? It's important to have foods from each of these groups in your diet every day.

• Does it allow you to eat some of your favorite foods occasionally? On a sensible diet program, there's room for a rich dessert in small amounts once in a while.

• Does the diet recommend changes in your eating habits that also fit your lifestyle and pocketbook?