We often hear these words, but how often do we think of the gloomy faces and gestures that accompany them? We've come to expect that the dieter has set out on some unpleasant journey. The words are almost groaned and there are sighs which suggest the dieter is in mourning. That's all because of the perception we have about diets. They are unpleasant, nasty, painful things, aren't they?

Yes, there's so much media hysteria about the latest variation on the (unhealthy?) dieting theme: zone diet, low-fat, lactose free, cholesterol lowering... All these and many more. Most people aren't naturally attracted to the latest dieting fads, but in despair they'll try anything. Especially when they promise to be good for us!

But can we rely on them?

You could soon be encouraged when you notice the pounds falling off. However, there's a downside. Records indicate that not only do most folks abandon these dieting fads, but they quickly return to their undesirable eating habits. Hardly surprising! Grapefruit and cabbage soup are boring, and it must only be a matter of time before you lose heart.

I Want It Now!

Do you remember the old song by Queen: 'I want it all, I want it now'? We've become so used to this mentality that we apply it to dieting regimes as well. Are we sick of the sight of our bodies? Is our weight affecting our health? Okay, let's put it right - here and now! Often we suspect a certain program can't be good, but the advertisers and copy writers know how to push our buttons. So we part with our cash, telling ourselves we'll just give this rapid (but unhealthy) dieting plan a try.

The drive to reduce weight rapidly can be so strong in some dieters that they will choose stomach bypass procedures. They know these operations were designed for the extremely overweight, but they nevertheless choose to ignore their own doctor's advice and seek private treatment.

Are There Alternatives to Unhealthy Dieting?

Deep down every dieter knows what has to be done, but they are often reluctant to face the facts. So let's - gently! - spell them out. Two things are required to gain a healthy, well-shaped body. One is to eat an appropriate amount of foods from the various food groups in order to meet our body's needs... The other is to subject the body to a reasonable amount of physical exercise.

At first this may sound grim, but it's not! Your favorite foods can still be on offer. You won't need to starve yourself. When you have a balanced plan and eat in moderation you can be secure in the knowledge that your weight and your health will improve.

So wave goodbye to all those unhealthy dieting plans and the physical and emotional pain that accompany them. Say hello and welcome to a new shape, better health, higher self-esteem, improved moods and emotional well being. Yes, you can enjoy that cookie or piece of chocolate, so long as you know you're sticking to your plan and taking moderate exercise. Unhealthy dieting plans! Who needs them?