IN PHOTOS: Exploring the effectiveness of viral diet trends for weight loss and debunking nutrition myths

If you’ve ever tried to lose weight, there’s a good chance you might have stumbled upon viral diet trends on social media. There is a lot of such advice on the internet. Not all of it is proven. Not all of it is suitable for everyone. We explore the effectiveness of some of these trends. 

Updated On: 2024-08-31 09:35 PM IST

Compiled by : Raaina Jain

Image for representational purposes only (Photos Courtesy: iStock)

Oatzempic and Rice-zempic 

Oatzempic is a breakfast drink of oats blended with lime juice and water whereas Rice-zempic is made by soaking uncooked rice with lime juice and then straining it to drink the leftover starchy water.

However, these are all short-term weight loss remedies. You can't survive only on oats or rice, and these may even be harmful for people with pre-existing conditions like diabetes.

Intermittent fasting

While it can help in weight loss, it is not safe for everyone. It has to be structured. An expert has to tell you exactly what to do and then to do and what, how much to eat, etc. 

 

Dukan diet

The Dukan Diet is split into four phases, each one focusing on specific nutrients. 

Phase 1 (Attack): Lean proteins
Phase 2 (Cruise): Lean proteins, vegetables, 2 tablespoons of oat bran daily
Phase 3 (Consolidation): Lean proteins, starchy fruits and veggies, two celebration meals a week
Phase 4 (Stabilisation): Eat anything, one high-protein day, oat bran daily

This diet also has limitations. It is based on cutting down on so many things, which can lead to missing out on other nutrients, causing nutritional deficiencies also.

7-second coffee loophole

It states that drinking black coffee, with added ingredients like lemon and cinnamon, within seven seconds of feeling hungry can curb hunger and reduce appetite.

It might help in suppressing appetite but there are no studies supporting it. Just taking coffee is not going to help because this is again focusing on a single nutrient and caffeine also has its side effects.  

Can only eating right help in weight loss?

Four pillars are necessary for weight loss. One is eating right, eating a balanced diet. Second is exercise. Third is holistic wellness. Fourth is taking care of your sleep.

(Inputs by Rajeshwari V Shetty, HOD (Nutrition & Dietetics), S. L. Raheja Hospital, Mahim - A Fortis Associate)

Disclaimer: This information does not replace professional medical advice. Consult a qualified specialist, nutritionist or your physician for personalised guidance.

Also Read: Midday Explains | Weight-loss drugs, diet fads, viral trends: Are they worth it for weight management? Experts answer

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