A health expert has sounded the alarm on the potential dangers of crash dieting as many individuals aim for a fresh start in 2025.
Dr Naheed Ali suggests that while the New Year and days like today might seem a perfect time to embark on stringent diets and rigorous exercise regimes, such drastic measures could backfire.
Discussing the pitfalls of an overzealous ‘new year, new me’ regime, he cautioned: “The biggest mistake people make when trying to get healthier is going to extremes.”
Dr Ali emphasised a moderate over drastic approach, advising: “Crash diets, intense workout plans, or cutting out entire food groups might seem effective at first, but they’re hard to maintain and often leave you feeling worse. A balanced, gradual approach works so much better.”
Speaking about long-lasting wellness strategies, Dr Ali, a senior contributor at Vera Clinic, continued: “Achieving and maintaining good health is more often about small, consistent changes that fit your life.
Dr Ali advised Brits not to go to extremes (stock image)
(Image: Getty)
“Drink water, eat well, move your body, and get enough rest. These habits don’t just make you feel better now, they set you up for lasting health and confidence in the long term.”
Hailing hydration as an essential step towards improved wellbeing, Dr Ali suggested that starting with something as basic as drinking more water can substantially enhance one’s overall health. He said it aids with digestion and even boosting hair and skin quality.
He also stressed the importance of a balanced diet rich in protein and fibre for sustained energy levels while encouraging the adoption of healthy snacking to manage cravings effectively.
Dr Ali emphasised that staying active doesn’t have to involve intense exercise, explaining: “A walk or some appropriate stretches can boost your mood and your health.
“And don’t underestimate the importance of quality sleep itself. Building a consistent bedtime routine whether it’s reading, meditating, or taking a warm shower helps your body wind down and prepares you for restful sleep, ultimately enhancing the overall effectiveness of your slumber and making it easier to drift off.”
Regarding crash diets, the NHS warns against them, noting they often lead to unsustainable habits, nutritional deficiencies, muscle loss, and a slower metabolism. It also points out that weight typically rebounds after resuming a normal diet.
Instead, the NHS suggests a balanced and sustainable approach to losing weight which includes long-term lifestyle changes over quick fixes. By adopting this approach, achieving and maintaining a healthy weight is more likely.