Scientists say ignore fads, just eat better, exercise

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There's the Atkins diet, the Southbeach, the low-calorie, the low-fat, the grapefruit, and many others. How is a person to choose, and how can you keep track of all the numbers once you do?

A federal panel of food scientists say you shouldn't have to. Most diets fail because people can't maintain them. Instead, they need to adopt healthy eating habits.

The Dietary Guidelines Advisory Committee says less food and more exercise are the key components of a healthy, slimming diet. Studies show that low-carb diets reduce weight over the short term, but their long-term effectiveness hasn't been proved.

The panel also defines basic food groups people should eat from: fruits, vegetables, whole grains, low-fat milk products, lean meat, and meat alternatives. Gone from the list are refined starches, (such as in white bread) fatty meats, and whole milk.

The scientists approve of moderate alcohol consumption, which may reduce the risk of heart and other diseases, but added that abstinence is fine.

This should make grocery shopping easier, portions smaller, and exercise more important. But you can stop counting calories and carbs.

Long Island Health, Fitness & Beauty Articles > Scientists say ignore fads, just eat better, exercise