According to an article published on US News & World Report by Hanna Dubansky, the Junk Food Diet describes a weight loss program focused on eating low-calorie candies, pastries, or other junk food for every meal. Foods such as fruits and vegetables are substituted by sugar foods that are normally avoided during other diet plans. If you are thinking about trying a new way to lose weight while still eating the foods you love, speak to your doctor to learn more about the Junk Food Diet.
How It Works
As the US News & World Report article suggests, the Junk Food Diet focuses on eating foods with lower calories, regardless of a "junk food" designation. You essentially eat low-calorie versions of your favorite snacks that may promote a drop in weight due to lower calorie consumption. There is no set time frame that you need to follow with this diet as it can be adjusted according to your weight loss needs. Body Mass Index can be used to determine the amount of calories you should stay under to achieve your weight loss goals. To determine your BMI, speak to a nutritionist or doctor for more information.
Benefits
The benefits of the Junk Food Diet include your ability to eat the foods you love while actively losing weight. As the US News & World Report article suggests, some dieters may not enjoy "diet foods" like fruits, vegetables, or other low-carb, low-calorie food options. Many snacks, beverages and other sugary foods are also offered in a low-calorie version on the market and can be used for this diet plan.
Risks
According to Joanne Larsen, a licensed, registered dietitian, junk food is a slang term for foods that hold little nutritional value. These foods are typically high in sugar, low in protein and may contain high levels of fat. As such, the Junk Food Diet may not be appropriate for every individual. Only attempt this diet plan after first speaking to your doctor or a licensed nutritionist.
Misconceptions
As the US News & World Report article states, the Junk Food Diet may offer weight loss due to lower calorie consumption and not because of a hidden nutritional value in snack foods. In addition, the incorporation of a healthy exercise program may be needed to further promote weight loss. Patients who have or are receiving treatment for a blood sugar medical condition should not attempt the Junk Food Diet due to the high sugar contents in snack foods.
Considerations
When attempting the Junk Food Diet, be sure to monitor the Nutrition Facts labels on your food items in order to determine calorie content. As Larsen suggests, check the sugar, fat and salt content of snack foods as well to monitor possible "empty calorie" intake -- or calories associated with sugar and fat content. Larson explains that for best results try to stay under 300 calories regardless of the type of junk food you include in your diet. Checking labels for serving size is also important to consider when calorie counting. As Larsen explains, a small yogurt may have a serving size of 4 oz. but is sold in 8 oz. containers, thus doubling the nutritional numbers on its label.
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