Diet questions
Diet questions, answered
You want to eat better or lose some weight, and every plan online says it's the one. Here are plain answers to the questions people ask most before they pick a diet, and once they've started.
Picking a diet
Is there one best diet?
No. Head-to-head studies find similar results, so the best one is the healthy diet you can keep up.
Read more →Can I mix elements from different diets?
Yes. Borrow what suits you, just don't stack up so many rules that meals get thin.
Read more →How do I know if a diet is a fad?
Fast promises, one villain food and products you must buy are the classic signs.
Read more →What's the difference between a diet and a lifestyle change?
A diet has an end date. A lifestyle change is a set of habits you plan to keep.
Read more →Sticking with it and staying safe
What makes a diet sustainable?
Seven signs a plan will last, from staying full to fitting your budget.
Read more →How long should you try a diet?
About 8 to 12 weeks, since the first two weeks are mostly water weight.
Read more →Are online diet plans safe?
Some are. A 10-point checklist helps you sort sensible plans from risky ones.
Read more →Do I need a dietitian to start a new diet?
Not usually, unless you have a health condition, take medicine or are pregnant.
Read more →More help
Stuck on a term like net carbs or ketosis? The glossary explains them in plain English. Ready to pick a plan? Start with how to choose a diet, or compare the options side by side on the comparison table.