Don’t Fall for the Quick Fix or Fad Diet

Salus • January 28, 2022

You want results. We get that. But be careful not to fall into the trap. Don’t fall for the quick fix or the next diet fad. Why?

It won’t last.

Buzz Words Are Confusing

Trending diet words like Keto, macros, intermittent fasting, flexible dieting, paleo can be overwhelming. Confusing. Frustrating. With one search on Google, we’re faced with hundreds of options to help us get results.

The problem?

Promising unrealistic, unsustainable results, most fads are marketed as a quick fix and do not provide the long-term lifestyle changes you really crave. Before you respond with, wait Coach, I thought you counted macros. Yes, I do. But here’s the thing (and I’m pretty sure you’ve heard me say this before):

What’s right for them, may not be (and probably is not) right for you.

Looking at the above list, of “trending diet words,” it’s important to note that they have their purpose for some individuals. A cancer patient, for example, may benefit from eating Keto. A competitive athlete may benefit from counting macros. But, I’ll repeat this again: What’s right for them may not be right for you.

Sure, jump on any new diet trend for a few weeks and you’ll probably lose a few pounds. But you have to ask yourself if that way of living is sustainable. If not, you can expect that weight to creep back on (and then some).

So, what’s a confused goal-seeker to do?

Identify Your Goals and Motivation to Get There

The biggest driver to change is finding your motivation. Why do you really want to XYZ (lose weight/gain muscle)?

Is it to feel healthy? Look good? Perform better?

You cannot achieve any of these goals on a quick fix. Identify your long term goal and determine the things you can do today, this week and even this month to accomplish that goal?

Fine Tune Nutrition Habits for the Long Haul

What behaviors can you fine tune to better your chances at staying on track with making better food choices? For example: make time to meal prep, get enough sleep, meditate, etc.

Create a sustainable plan that you and the entire family can embrace. After all, YOU are the one setting an example for your children. What habits do you want them to develop as they grow up?

And remember to be patient with the process. You’re creating new habits: for life (not just for spring break).

Ready to Nix the Quick Fix and RESET Your Habits?

Don’t bite off more than you can chew. Staying focused on one new goal at a time will help you stay committed and keep the momentum going strong. Take this 6-week plan for example:

  1. Week one, start with a kitchen clean out to reset your eating habits. Get in the habit of reading labels – or better yet, choose foods that don’t have a label.
  2. Next, in week two, add on portion awareness. Focus on eating a balance of carbs, protein and fats at every meal and mini meal. This week you can also focus on the importance of staying hydrated.
  3. Week three is all about sleep. This is perhaps one of the most important factors (that most of us neglect). But, it’s not just about how many hours you log in bed, it’s also about what you do before you go to bed to destress.
  4. In week four, consider bumping up your movement. CrossFit, running, biking, weightlifting. Whatever you love to do…do that! And then some.
  5. Week five is a good time to dial in on your mental health – which can translate to physical health. Discover new stress reduction tips so you have an arsenal of strategies to pull out no matter the stressor.
  6. Finally in week six, it’s time to put it all together and really dial in on recovery and self care habits. What will make you a better version of yourself?

Remember, small habit changes really add up and can result in huge changes – even in a small amount of time.

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