With a majority of the world obsessing over their body by trying to become the best version of themselves, many diet fads are at their disposal to help them achieve their dream body. Paleolithic diet, ketogenic diet, raw food diet, and liquid diet are all examples of health fads that arose in the wake of health and wellness. And now, another fad called the F-factor diet seems to be making head turns with its new approach to weight loss.

Created by dietitian Tanya Zuckerbrot, the F-factor diet is a weight loss plan that focuses on consuming foods high in fiber, lean protein, and complex carbs. It is distinct from other weight loss plans as it allows eating out, drinking alcohol occasionally, eating carbs, and spending less time exercising. The idea of the F-factor diet is to be able to enjoy the small joys of life as it increases the sustainability of the diet and also makes it easier to follow. The main sources of fiber are fruits, vegetables, pulses, and whole grains.

By increasing the quantity of fiber, you are kept satiated for longer, thus preventing the feeling of deprivation. The lean protein helps in maintaining muscle mass without providing too many carbs and fats, and the relatively low carb intake prevents excess calorie storage. The F-factor diet is meant to be followed in three phases. In the first phase (jump starting weight loss), you have to eat fewer than 35 grams of net carbs a day over three servings of carbs. In the second phase (continued weight loss), you have to eat fewer than 75 grams of net carbs a day over six servings of carbs. In the final phase (maintenance eating), you have to eat fewer than 125 grams of net carbs a day over nine servings of carbs.

In the past, research has found a link between a high fiber diet and weight loss to such an extent that fiber has been shown to even prevent obesity and chronic diseases. It is slowly digested, therefore it stays in the body for longer, keeping you full for longer and preventing eating in between meals. A study showed that for people suffering from obesity or excess weight, fiber was the most important dietary requirement regardless of calorie or macronutrient intake. While there isnt much research to prove the caliber of the F-factor diet, previous studies are in favour of it.

The F-factor diet doesnt give as much importance to exercise like other diets to, for it may increase hunger and make you eat more. Exercise is an important factor to aid weight loss, and without it, your efforts might be hindered. Excess fiber can not only cause digestive issues like gas, cramping, and bloating, but it may make you ignore other important nutrients like protein and fat, which also make you lose calories.

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Everything you need to know about the F-factor diet - Times of India