As the long-awaited spring break nears; students are beginning to resort to risky weight loss methods that promise near immediate results. Although various tactics are used by students to get in shape for swimsuit season, the crash diet fad seems to be increasingly popular at Langley. “[Crash dieting] goes on way too often – at Langley, and also at all high schools,” said volleyball coach and health teacher Susan Shifflett.
Crash dieting involves cutting down drastically on daily calorie intake through an altered meal routine. This type of dieting is typically practiced by individuals trying to lose a certain amount of weight in a short period of time. These bizarre and often dangerous crash diet plans, such as the water diet or fruit diet, can be found on the internet, as well as other easily accessible places-such as kiosks at the mall. Many individuals create their own plans by reducing portions and often focusing on consuming one type of food. “I think it’s sad that people go on these crash diets- it’s not safe and you should learn to accept yourself the way you are,” said freshman, Melissa Donley.
These types of diets are potentially harmful to body systems due to their lack in nutritional value. Students who participate in crash dieting have also found that their overall attentiveness level has been altered and they are unusually tired or weak. “Crash dieting can lower your metabolism to the point where, when you eat, you gain weight. It can also cause heart issues, and lowers your concentration so you wouldn’t be able to focus in class,” said human anatomy teacher Mary Landis.
Although crash diets may be effective for quickly dropping in size, after the short period of revised dieting is finished, a greater amount of weight often will return. “Inevitably when you go back to eating properly you will gain weight,” said gym coach and health teacher Brian Lamb. This proves that the crash dieting process not only destroys the body internally, but hurts external appearances as well.
While crash dieting may not serve as the most proficient way to become slender, there are many healthy alternatives that will result in the same desired outcomes. All sources seemed to agree that burning calories through moderate exercise would provide the greatest results in the safest manner. “What it really comes down to is, calories in vs. calories out… it’s a simple formula that no one wants to believe,” said Landis.
Exercise and a well-balanced diet are the obvious options, but those who are more serious about losing the weight should speak to a licensed physician. According to Coach Lamb, “The best way to do it is to talk to somebody who knows about nutrition and exercise, and establish a healthy goal.”