Following a decreased-calorie or low-fat diet doesn't have to seem impossible. Make a meal plan for the week before you go grocery shopping and only choose foods that you need to create those meals. If there are no temptations lurking in your kitchen, staying on track will be possible. Always consult with your physician about low-calorie or low-fat diets as your body may need additional calories.
Mediterranean Diet
The Mediterranean diet consists of heart-healthy foods such as fish, vegetables, fruits, nuts and whole grains, according to the Mayo Clinic. The Mediterranean diet also focuses on limiting unhealthy fats, making it a low-fat diet. The key points of the Mediterranean diet focus on limiting saturated and trans fats. Due to the low-fat nature of the Mediterranean diet, it may help prevent heart disease and cancer. The diet replaces unhealthy fats such as butter with healthier fats such as olive and canola oil. Instead of using salts to spice foods, the diet focuses on using herbs and spices to add flavor and zest. The diet also focuses on moderation of all foods, including fats and sweets.
Vegetarian Diet
Following a vegetarian diet can help prevent cardiovascular disease, according to the Mayo Clinic. A vegetarian diet can consist of three different options. The first is vegan, which does not allow any type of meat, dairy or animal by-products. A lacto-vegetarian diet excludes all types of meats and eggs, but allows you to have milk, butter and cheese. A Lacto-ovo vegetarian diet excludes meats such as red meat, fish and poultry, but allows dairy products and eggs. Vegetarians typically consume fewer calories than those who consume a non-vegetarian diet, since a vegetarian diet primarily consists of eating fruits, vegetables and grains.
Low-Fat Diet
Low-fat diets can help you lose weight and are better for your mood than low-carb diets, according to WomensHealth.gov. On average, following a low-fat diet for one year can help you lose up to 30 pounds. Low-fat diets consist of lean meats, low-fat dairy products and other low-fat foods such as fruits and vegetables. Low-fat diets aren't necessarily low-calorie, but they can be since you are reducing the amount of overall calories by cutting fat out of your diet.
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