Everyone would love a quick fix or a magic pill. Unfortunately, diets, supplements and products that promise things that seem too good to be true are often just that. We're taking some time to discuss why fad diets rarely work and how to implement healthy lifestyle changes instead!

Fad diets could increase your weight

AUCLA study found that, "people on diets typically lose 5 to 10 percent of their starting weight in the first six months, the researchers found. However, at least one-third to two-thirds of people on diets regain more weight than they lost within four or five years, and the true number may well be significantly higher". Rather that starting a diet, strive towards a healthier, satisfying lifestyle.

Deprivation isn't the answer

Depriving yourself of calories can set in motion a chain of events that may cause your body to hold onto weight in order to sustain life in what it perceives as a life-threatening scenario. A sustainable, healthy mindset would be to simply eat nutrient-dense foods when you feel hungry. Take time to sit down and enjoy each meal without distraction; that means away from the television, computer and cellphone.  

Exercise is important

Researchers state that, "Eating in moderation is a good idea for everybody, and so is regular exercise.. Exercise may well be the key factor leading to sustained weight loss. Studies consistently find that people who reported the most exercise also had the most weight loss". Not sure where to start when it comes to getting active? Find great tips in ourFitness Tuneup article.

Eat a whole food diet

Consume nutrient-rich foods that are filled with vitamins, minerals and fiber. Keep in mind that protein and fiber will help to satiate and stabilize blood sugar. Low-calorie foods like rice cakes are empty carbohydrates that will leave you feeling hungry in no time! Adequate protein intake is also very important when it comes to weight management. If you have trouble consuming enough protein, tryGarden of Life RAW Fit, a protein powder that also contains key ingredients for weight loss like green coffee bean extract. Simply add a scoop to a nutritious smoothie or enjoy on its own in almond milk or water.

Be mindful of added sugar

A major issue when it comes to excess weight gain is not added fat but added sugar. The sugar that is added to sweets, processed foods and even found naturally in fruits can greatly affect our insulin levels. Irregular blood sugar levels not properly controlled through a whole food diet is a contributing factor in excess weight gain.

Reduce your stress levels

Daily stress promotes the release of cortisol, a hormone that plays a role in our fight-or-flight response.Cortisol triggers the release of glucose into the blood, which can be stored as fat when stress is not managed or reduced. Finding ways to decrease stress is a very important aspects of weight management - try yoga, Tai Chi or meditation.  

Smart supplements for weight loss

There are a variety of supplements that have been clinically proven to support a healthy body composition. One of these is LornaVanderhaeghe’s GLUCOsmart, which contains Chirositot, a nutrient that supports healthy glucose metabolism and blood sugar levels. Some people opt for a short cleanse or detox to help kickstart new healthy habits. We like to recommend the12-day Wild Rose Herbal D-Tox or6-day ReCleanse. You may also be interested in trying a new product in North America calledI-REMOVE by BMISmart. It is made with Litrimine Fat Binder™, the top-selling proprietary weight management complex in Europe.