If you plan for a healthy diet and healthy weight loss, general principles can certainly work in the initial weight loss phases or even longer. This includes applying a balanced diet, reducing caloric intake, and prioritizing whole foods. Aim for a dietary approach that is natural, healthy, and sustainable in the long term, focusing on forming healthy eating habits rather than quick fixes or extreme restrictions. You can refer to our article to identify fad diets and healthy diets.

However, a personalized approach becomes necessary to address the unique needs of each individual, especially for those who are obese (with a BMI of 35.0 or higher) or have lifestyle diseases such as diabetes, high blood sugar, high blood pressure, high LDL cholesterol levels, or conditions like PCOS/PCOD or thyroid issues. It's important to recognize that what works for one person may not work for another in these cases. Always consult with a medical professional, clinical dietitian, or nutritionist before starting any new diet or weight loss plan.

WeightWatchers, Atkins, Whole30, Paleo Diets, etc are considered commercial diet programs. These diets are branded with specific guidelines, differentiating them from general dietary patterns, and their programs often involve purchasing specific products, services, or memberships and  including pre-packaged meals or supplements.

General diet patterns like the Intermittent Fasting, Mediterranean diet, Ketogenic diet, or Vegetarian diet, which are not tied to any particular brand or commercial entity. General diets are broad eating patterns based on nutritional science and traditional dietary practices.

Dietitians typically focus on general diet patterns that are research and evidence based and not tied to any commercial products or supplements. These general diet patterns are designed to promote overall health, manage weight, weight-loss and prevent or treat various health conditions.