“Diet” foods aren’t necessarily healthier, and not everyone should be consuming them
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Planning a healthy and balanced diet is essential for our well-being. However, more and more people have adhered to restrictive diets marked by products labeled “diet.” While these foods may be safe for those with nutritional restrictions, for most people without specific needs, opting for a diet based on dietetic foods can be harmful to your health.
According to the National Health Surveillance Agency (Anvisa), the term diet is used in foods for low-calorie diets (carbohydrates, fats, proteins, sodium).
Diet products are those that have zero ingredients, such as sugar, fat or sodium. Dietary products are generally indicated by those with health problems such as diabetes, hypertension or high cholesterol.
For people without restrictions, experts warn that this type of diet, in addition to being unsustainable, can lead to nutrient deficiencies, reduced energy support, nutritional compensation, kidney problems and even the risk of eating disorders.
Nutritionist Ronan Araujo points out that “dietary foods are not necessarily healthier and not everyone should consume them”.
A proper diet is not only about replacing “dietary” products.
A proper diet requires smart choices from a variety of foods, not just substitutions for diet versions. Whole foods such as fruit, vegetables, cereals, legumes and oilseeds should be the basis of the diet, combined in a balanced and varied way.
When considering a dietary diet, it is important to remember:
- 1. It can cause nutrient deficiencies by replacing rich sources of vitamins, minerals and fiber with less nutritious dietary alternatives.
- 2. Despite the reduction or elimination of a specific nutrient, these products tend to be high in calories from sweeteners, emulsifiers and preservatives.
- 3. Many people tend to “compensate” the consumption of diet foods by eating the most unhealthy ones, increasing the total calories ingested.
- 4. Can trigger eating disorders such as orthorexia with excessive focus on “pure” sources and severe restrictions.
- 5. The “diet” label doesn’t always indicate healthier options, it’s important to check the ingredients and nutritional composition.
Focus on balanced eating habits
“Instead of restrictive and unsustainable diets, we should focus on balanced, varied eating habits suited to our individual needs. Consulting a specialist is essential to develop strategies that promote health in an integral way, with respect for the individual. Diet and healthy eating derive from conscious choices based on qualified information, and not on quick promises and miraculous results”, concludes Ronan Araujo.
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Ben Stock is a lifestyle journalist and author at Gossipify. He writes about topics such as health, wellness, travel, food and home decor. He provides practical advice and inspiration to improve well-being, keeps readers up to date with latest lifestyle news and trends, known for his engaging writing style, in-depth analysis and unique perspectives.
