Health Matters: Popular Diets

So what is the best diet to lose those extra pounds, going low-carb or low-fat? When it comes to weight loss, a recent study published in the American medical association journal found that there is no one-size-fits-all diet plan. Researchers looked at over four dozen previous trials of overweight and obese adults----totaling 7,000 patients. Many participants followed popular name-brand diets and others did not follow individual plans. After six months, those on low-carb and low-fat diets lost about the same amount of weight---about 18 lbs. while those that followed their own diet did not see much change on the scale. Exercise and moral support increased weight loss results. But after a year, some people stopped the diet and some of the weight crept back. Study authors say there is still not enough evidence to recommend any one particular diet. But they have some advice: find one that will work with your lifestyle and stick to it.