The Fast Metabolism Diet: Should You Try It? (5 of 5)

So does ‘The Fast Metabolism Diet’ work?

If you’re looking for short-term results, you will probably lose weight. But according to Abby Langer, an actual licensed dietitian based in Toronto, it’s not because this diet contains magical properties — the change in eating habits means you’re consuming fewer calories, which is going to have an effect.

Rotating through these three phases probably won’t make a difference. Claims that the diet “surprises the metabolism” and “keeps it guessing” as if it were sentient has no scientific foundation.

You should also pass on those supplements. The truth is, if you’re eating a balanced diet anyway, you are already getting nutrients like Vitamin B which boost metabolism.

One final red flag is the claim that this diet will help you lose 20 pounds in 28 days. First, according to the CDC, people who lose weight gradually and steadily (around one or two pounds a week) are more likely to maintain a healthy weight. In other words, losing weight quickly is neither a good idea nor will it result in long-term success.

Langer concedes that the Fast Metabolism Diet isn’t necessarily dangerous by itself, but has the potential to cause other issues such as making people develop an irrational fear of food or other eating disorders. So it’s probably best to discuss dietary options with a doctor or actual dietitian rather than trust a fad diet.