Last Updated:
Discover the truth behind common diet trends. Nutritionist Manisha Prasad explains what science says about fats, carbs, detoxes, and sustainable eating.
True health is built on sustainability and balance. Fad diets and quick fixes rarely deliver lasting results
Trying to make sense of all the latest diet trends can be truly exhausting. Everywhere you look, there’s a new “breakthrough” and social media only makes the noise louder. But honestly, most of these quick fixes fall apart once you dig into the science.
Real nutrition isn’t about jumping from one fad to the next or cutting out entire food groups. It’s about paying attention to your own body, understanding how your metabolism works, and finding what fits your lifestyle. When you pull those threads together, that’s when you achieve lasting results. Chasing one-off solutions just doesn’t work.
Manisha Prasad, Qualified Nutritionist & Lifestyle Disease Specialist, Modiway, shares some of the most common nutrition myths and what science actually says about them.
Fat Fear: Why Fats Are Not Your Enemy
For decades, fats have been wrongly demonized. Research now shows they are essential to human health. Dietary lipids support cellular function, hormone balance, and cognitive performance, far from being detrimental.
Eliminating fats entirely can disrupt metabolism, skin health, and energy levels. Over time, a prolonged fat-free diet may even lead to deficiencies in vitamins A, D, E, and K, as these require fat for absorption. The real issue lies in the type and quality of fat we consume, not in fat itself. However, moderation remains key, since excessive fat intake can contribute to weight gain and hyperlipidemia.
The Diet Dilemma: Do We Really Need Fancy Plans to Eat Healthy?
Many people spend time and effort trying to follow complicated diet trends or incorporating exotic foods, often without lasting results. In truth, good health doesn’t depend on restrictive or elaborate routines, it thrives on simplicity and consistency.
Diets built around seasonal, locally grown foods such as fruits, vegetables, whole grains, lentils, and millets provide all the nourishment your body needs. These foods are naturally rich in nutrients, easy to prepare, and well suited to our climate and lifestyle. Focusing on balanced, home-cooked meals supports long-term metabolic health while promoting a sustainable, enjoyable way of eating.
Gluten-Free Gone Wild: Who Actually Needs It?
Unless you have celiac disease or a medically diagnosed gluten sensitivity, cutting gluten isn’t necessary. In fact, skipping gluten without reason can mean missing important nutrients like fibre and B vitamins.
Whole grains play a vital role in gut health and digestion. For most people, a balanced approach that includes whole grains is far more beneficial than jumping on the gluten-free bandwagon.
Carb Curtain Call: The Truth About Carbohydrates
Carbohydrates are the body’s primary fuel source. Cutting them out completely can leave you feeling tired, foggy, and irritable. The issue isn’t carbs themselves, it’s the type and quantity consumed.
Complex carbohydrates such as whole grains, millets, oats, and legumes, eaten in moderation, help maintain steady energy and blood sugar levels. The key is to choose the right sources and avoid refined or processed options.
Detox Doubt: Do Cleanses Really Cleanse?
Juice cleanses or fruit-only diets promise rapid detoxification, but they often lack essential fats, minerals, and amino acids. This imbalance can lead to muscle loss and lowered immunity.
Science shows that your liver and kidneys already perform natural detoxification efficiently. Extreme diets, on the other hand, can slow metabolism and trigger rebound weight gain. The real path to feeling “clean” lies in balanced nutrition, portion control, regular exercise, and adequate hydration.
Keto and Paleo: The Hype vs. The Harm
Keto and Paleo diets can deliver quick results in the short term but are not always sustainable. Restricting carbohydrates or eliminating entire food groups can lead to nutrient deficiencies and place strain on organs.
True long-term wellness depends on metabolic balance, achieved through diverse, nutrient-rich meals, regular physical activity, and consistent healthy habits, not drastic restrictions.
Organic Obsession: Does It Really Mean Healthier?
Organic produce may reduce exposure to certain pesticides, but it isn’t automatically more nutritious. Research shows minimal differences in nutrient content between organic and conventionally grown foods.
The real foundation of health is variety, moderation, and mindful choices, not labels. No single tag guarantees superior nutrition.
The Takeaway
True health is built on sustainability and balance. Fad diets and quick fixes rarely deliver lasting results. Focus instead on consistent, evidence-based habits that fit your lifestyle and support your body’s needs.
When you listen to your body and make intentional choices, you build not just a diet but lasting well-being.
Swati Chaturvedi is a seasoned media professional with over 13 years of experience in journalism, digital content strategy, and editorial leadership across top national media houses. An alumna of Lady Shri Ram …Read More
Swati Chaturvedi is a seasoned media professional with over 13 years of experience in journalism, digital content strategy, and editorial leadership across top national media houses. An alumna of Lady Shri Ram … Read More
November 11, 2025, 07:50 IST
link
More Stories
Vegan diet can halve your carbon footprint, study shows
89-year-old nutrition expert from New York shares diet secrets for long life: ‘I like vegetables, eggs, cheese…’
The Best Dog Food of 2025, Tested and Reviewed