The way that people eat is changing faster than ever before. With more options for what to put in your body, the question of how to make healthy choices becomes even more difficult. It can feel like there are too many diets out there, and they all seem to contradict one another. However, it is easier than you think if you know what’s worth following. This blog will list 5 of the most popular diets of 2021.
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The Keto Diet
The ketogenic diet was first developed in the 1920s as a remedy for epilepsy. However, today it is used to help with weight loss and type two diabetes. The goal of this low-carb, high-fat way of eating is to put your body into ketosis by limiting carbs until you deplete glucose stores (glycogen). When glycogen runs out, your liver begins producing ketones which are fat molecules that can be used as fuel for energy instead of sugar from carbohydrates. This means no processed foods, including sweeteners like refined sugars or even stevia! Instead, focus on consuming grass-fed beef and dairy products and using coconut oil and olive oil for cooking. It’s also essential to eat lots of non-starchy vegetables like leafy greens, broccoli, and cauliflower.
The Paleo-Inspired Whole Foods Diet
The paleo diet is similar to the ketogenic diet in that it focuses on eating whole foods. However, the main difference between these diets is that there are still options for you when you want a break from meat consumption! Paleo followers can enjoy healthy fats like avocado and nuts while also including some fruits here and there. The focus of this way of eating isn’t specifically about weight loss but more about taking care of your body through food by avoiding processed ingredients. A popular part of following the paleo lifestyle is mini-meals, which means constant snacking with real food. The paleo approach also has lovely meal options from delicious, creamy, low carb white chicken chili to paleo pizza, the options are endless.
The Carnivore Diet
Yes, you read that right. The carnivore diet is one of the more extreme diets out there, and it’s not for everyone! People who follow this way of eating only eat meat. Your options include beef, chicken, lamb or fish, and some non-starchy vegetables like spinach and lettuce. That’s basically all you need to survive on! While we know that your body needs nutrients from other sources such as whole grains and dairy products, the jury is still out if a pure carnivore diet provides enough vitamins and minerals to consume these things in moderation, if at all.
Intermittent Fasting
Intermittent fasting isn’t a diet per se but rather a pattern of eating. It’s based on the premise that people who eat all day long, from morning to night, aren’t allowing their bodies enough time in between meals for proper digestion and detoxification. The most popular form of intermittent fasting is 16 hours of fasting followed by an eight-hour window to consume your daily calories, which typically works out to around 700-900 kcal per meal. This pattern also helps with weight loss because studies have shown that not grazing throughout the day makes it easier to manage hunger cravings, therefore making healthier food choices easy!
Plant-Based Diet
Last but not least is the plant-based diet that focuses on consuming whole foods, fruits, and vegetables. Plant-based eaters are all about eating whole grains, legumes, nuts, and seeds for their high fiber content which helps to keep you feeling full longer. It’s also essential to get your protein from natural sources like tofu or tempeh instead of meat products since these have been linked with heart disease when consumed in excess. The bottom line here? Eating a more plant-based diet means leaning towards healthier options while enjoying life!
There are many different types of diets out there, and it can be difficult to choose one when you’re starting out. The best thing is to try a few until you find the one that fits your lifestyle and personality the best.
