Healthline Today: Weight Loss

In this week’s Healthline Today Dr. Jim Lenhart takes a closer look at one item on many New Year’s resolution lists: weight loss.

And speaking of dieting, I finally have an answer for the many people who have asked me a thousand times over the years, "Dr. Jim when are you going to put me on a diet to help me get rid of this weight?"
Obviously the choice, grit and determination are yours, but U.S. News and World Report recently gathered a panel of 22 health experts including specialists in diabetes, heart health, human behavior, weight loss and nutrition to analyze 25 popular diet plans. I think you will find their recommendations helpful. The experts rated the diets in seven categories, including short- and long-term weight loss, ease of use, safety, and nutrition.

They evaluated each diet's characteristics, factors like the type, theory, aim and claim. And asked, is it user friendly? Is it tasty and filling? Are unique foods required? Then they weighed in on the pros and cons and the do's and don'ts while losing on each. Food preferences are very individual so finally, they asked readers the most important question of all "Did the diet work for you?" You will find the report interesting so Google US News Best Diets to learn more.

Now from the mail room, Beverly from Yuma, Arizona writes, "Dr. Jim, what about the HCG diet?" Thanks for your email Beverly. This is a tough one. The HCG diet was first proposed in the 1950's but after a period of popularity was debunked by published research. It's still controversial. On the HCG protocol dieters eat a very high protein, low calorie diet coupled with multivitamins and injections of the hormone of pregnancy called HCG. Weight loss over the 23 to 40 day period is dramatic if you stick with it. But to sustain such a severe regimen over a longer period is impossible and unhealthy. That's the rub. HCG dieters must be medically supervised and like all weight loss protocols alter the unhealthy lifestyles that led to the overweight/obesity in the first place.

For questions or comments email me drjim@drjimshealthline.com the Be Healthy! Be Happy! And I'll see you next time on Healthline Today.

(DISCLAIMER): Opinions on this station and the web of Dr. Jim Lenhart are educational and informational and are not a diagnosis, treatment or substitute for professional medical advice. 
Consult a physician or health care professional for your health or medical needs.