Base dietician warns against ‘fad’ diets Published March 7, 2007 MOUNTAIN HOME AIR FORCE BASE, Idaho -- Base nutrition experts highlight the consequences of fad diets and outline healthier alternatives during this year's National Nutrition Month observance, which started here March 1. The American Dietetic Association developed National Nutrition Month in 1973 to promote healthy eating by providing practical nutrition guidance and focusing attention on making informed food choices and developing sound physical activity habits. The month also reminds consumers to work with nutrition professionals for valuable, credible science-based information, according to Yvonne Gardzina, a registered dietitian with the base's health and wellness center. In fact, the Air Force employs more than 100 registered dietitians and 400 diet technicians at bases around the world to help people make healthy choices. According to Ms. Gardzina, diet fads come and go and some do help people lose weight but only in the short term. The most effective long-term way to achieve a healthy lifestyle is to stay 100 percent fad free, she said, quoting statistics from the American Dietetic Association. "If you're trying to lose weight, instead of going on a diet, shift your focus on eating smaller portions and eat more often," Ms. Gardzina said. "Your body will burn fat more efficiently if you vary food choices and include a range of colors in your diet. Fruits and vegetables are especially important for added vitamins, minerals, fiber and antioxidants that may help lower cholesterol, blood pressure and cancer risk." To enjoy a diet fad-free lifestyle, she recommends people follow several guidelines: - Develop an eating plan for lifelong health. Too often, people adopt the latest food fad versus focusing on overall health, Ms. Gardzina said. Guides like the new Dietary Guidelines for Americans and MyPyramid can help guide people back to the basics of healthy eating. - Choose foods sensibly by looking at the "big picture." A single food or meal won't make or break a healthful diet, she said. When eaten in moderation with appropriate portions, all foods can fit into a healthy diet. - Learn to spot a "food fad." Unreasonable or exaggerated claims eating (or not eating) specific foods, nutrient supplements or combinations of foods may cure disease or offer quick weight loss are key features of fad diets, she said. - Find a balance between food and exercise. Regular exercise is important for people's overall health and fitness plus it helps control body weight, promotes a feeling of well-being and reduces the risk of chronic diseases, Ms. Gardzina said. - Food and nutrition misinformation can have harmful effects on people's health, well-being and their wallet. Registered dietitians are best qualified to discuss current and emerging science-based nutrition information and help people develop a diet plan for their individual needs, Ms. Gardzina said. As part of this year's observance, the HAWC features a series of events to promote healthier eating and proper nutrition. A 500-word essay contest continues through March 31 with the topic "why fad diets don't work." Open to children and adults, the top essay writes qualify for various prizes. People may drop off entries at the HAWC. Other events include a commissary tour and label reading workshop from 9 to 10 a.m. March 14 and 21 at the store. The class helps people better comprehend food labels and manufacturers' claims. Meanwhile, the HAWC and Wagon Wheel Dining Facility feature weekly nutrition quizzes with chances for people to win prizes. For more information, call the HAWC at 828-4008.