Most Popular Diets
There are many for-profit diets on the market: South Beach, Atkins, Zone and lot of others. There are also many diets promoted by non-profit or governmental organizations such as the US Department of Agriculture. These diets have conflicting claims, and the medical studies conflict.
How can you select the right diet given all of the competing claims? How can you even choose between high-fat, low-carb diets and low-carb high-fat diets? DietForYou can help with carefully researched summaries of many of the most popular diets on the market.
Choosing a Diet
Choosing a weight-loss program may be a difficult task. You may not know what to look for in a weight-loss program or what questions to ask. The following suggestions and questions can help you make an informed decision before you join a program or start a new diet.
Experts agree that the best way to reach a healthy weight is to follow a sensible eating plan and engage in regular physical activity. Weight-loss programs should encourage healthy behaviors that help you lose weight and that you can maintain over time. Safe and effective weight-loss programs should include:
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Healthy eating plans that reduce calories but do not rule out specific foods or food groups
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Regular physical activity and/or exercise instruction
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Tips on healthy behavior changes that also consider your cultural needs
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Slow and steady weight loss of about ¾ to 2 pounds per week and not more than 3 pounds per week (weight loss may be faster at the start of a program)
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Medical care if you are planning to lose weight by following a special formula diet, such as a very-low-calorie diet
- A plan to keep the weight off after you have lost it
Heart-healthy Ionian Diet from Greece
The Ionian Greek diet is one of the healthiest and most natural ways of eating. Because of the minimal use of meats, dairy, and processed foods and the high reliance on fresh seasonal vegetables, olive oil and beans, the Greek population has shown some of the lowest rates of heart disease in the world. Following a diet similar to the Greek Ionian diet can improve your heart health and overall well-being as well as give you a delicious array of Mediterranean-inspired meals to enjoy.
Greek Ionian Diet Tips
1. Use Good Olive Oil
 Olive oil is one of the best fats you can consume. It has the highest amount of monosaturated fats as compared to other oils and has been associated with lowering LDL or bad cholesterol.
Replace butter with olive oil when sauteing vegetables, chicken, fish or other lean proteins. Use as the base for salad dressings along with vinegar and fresh herbs and seasonings. You can even drizzle olive oil on popcorn. And don’t forget, you can always munch on olives for similar health benefits. But, as with all things, moderation is key, particularly since olives and olive oil are high in calories.
 2. Eat Whole Grains and Barley
Whole grains and barley products have been shown to reduce the risk of coronary heart disease (the FDA has approved this statement). Replace all white breads with whole grain or cracked grain breads. Replace white rice with barley and make a fiber-rich salad with fresh vegetables and barley, drizzled with olive oil.
3. Consume Leafy Greens
Rich, dark colored greens like spinach, kale, or escarole are not only delicious but also nutritious. These leafy greens contain lutein, which can help prevent clogged arteries and protect your eyes and skin. Substitute leafy greens in all salads and as garnishes on sandwiches. You can also saute leafy greens with olive oil for an antioxidant-rich side dish.
 4. Consume Legumes
Beans, peas, and lentils are packed with protein. They are also high in fiber and can help protect your heart and reduce your risk of colon cancer. Use beans instead of rice as a side dish or instead of pasta in salads. Not only will you be more satisfied with your meals, you will be improving your diet.
 5. Fresh, Seasonal, and All-Natural Foods Rule
Loading up on fresh fruits and vegetables and staying away from canned or processed foods is the way of the Greek diet. Typically, the center of the meal is made of vegetables with just a little meat. Try placing the main focus of the meal on vegetables and use meat as a side dish. This will increase your intake of antioxidants and fiber and lower your intake of calories and saturated fat.
Popular Diets
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