3 Diets That May Aid in Weight Reduction

By Stephen R. Farris

Millions of Americans struggle daily with their weight. Most try fad diets that either don't work, or actually make them gain more weight, and that's not good when that happens. According to research, people who are obese are more at risk of developing heart disease, high blood pressure, diabetes, and other diseases.

If you're thinking about dropping a few pounds and getting on the track to a healthier lifestyle, then consider some of the diets available that have been proven -- according to studies -- to help you eat healthier and shed some of that excess weight. However, you should first consult with your primary physician or local chiropractor to see if you're able to start a weight loss diet, and they may even have a few extra tips and suggestions that could aid in your dieting goals.

Paleo Diet

The paleo diet basically mimics what our earliest ancestors did by gathering up fresh fruits and raw vegetables, and whatever meat sources were available in their location. The paleo diet consists of eating fresh fruits and vegetables, lean cuts of meat, raw nuts and seeds, while avoiding high-processed foods (packaged and canned), and processed meats. This diet also cuts out sugar and certain dairy products as well. While aiding in losing weight, the diet may lower your risk of certain heart disease indicators such as high blood pressure, high triglyceride levels, and high cholesterol levels.

Low-Fat Diet

With a low-fat diet, you eliminate as much fat as possible, with most of your nutrition coming from carbs (80 percent), and 10 percent from protein sources. On the plus side, a low-fat diet can help reduce your risk of heart disease and stroke, and you could see improvements if you have diabetes. The downside is that by eating a low-fat diet, you may not absorb all of the nutrients you need, as well as a few other long-term health problems that affect hormone production and cell health.

The Mediterranean Diet

The Mediterranean diet is based on the diets of folks who live in Italy and Greece, which includes eating fresh fruits and vegetables, nuts, seeds, legumes, tubers (vegetables which grow underground on the root of a plant), whole grains, fish, seafood, and plenty of extra-virgin olive oil. You can consume moderate portions of poultry, eggs, and dairy foods, but you're limited in consumption of red meats. Studies have shown that following the Mediterranean diet could help reduce your risk of heart disease, and may help you lose weight, mainly if you eat smaller portions of what you've prepared.

These diets are examples of some of the ones that could help you lose weight and reduce certain health risks. Not all diets work for the same for everyone, as there may be other factors involved, such as hidden health problems or lack of exercise. Exercising daily could help in speeding up your weight loss goals.    

To learn more about your health, wellness and fitness, see your local chiropractor at The Joint Chiropractic in West Melbourne, Fla. 

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