A little over thirty years ago portion controlled diets became very popular. They were a quick and easy way to control how many calories you took in every day and weight loss was inevitable. Every one seemed to love them and the results that they gave. But over time their appeal started to fade as dieters got bored with the food selection and the taste and textures of the products were, well let’s just say that the boxes that they came in often tasted better than the meals they held.
Then 10 years ago there was a resurgence in popularity due to many health advisors stating all the ills that could be had when one is overweight and others praising the results that could be obtained with a diet that was weighed and measured, as most of us underestimate the size of our food portions. But again consumers started turning away from these plans in droves as they felt the types of foods offered were less than their gourmet counter parts. Sure, no one expected the meals to taste like a fancy restaurant meal but they also didn’t want to feel as though they were being punished with such a limited variety of foods or foods that tasted bland.
If you have never thought of going on a portioned controlled diet because you prefer to eat for the taste of food and not just to survive, then I’ve got some good news for you. A funny thing happened last year, several celebrities started showing up on television speaking the praises of portion controlled diets. They spoke about the variety of meals that are offered and practically had up drooling when they described the taste and how the weight just melted off. But they couldn’t be talking out the same type of portion controlled diet foods that I can get, they must have them made especially for them?
Surprise! These are the same meals that you and I can get. Yes, you see the industry has finally listened and they have, and are continuing to revamp their programs so that it is no longer a chore to eat the meals, but a luxury. Gone are the tiny portions, gone are the one size fit’s all type of program. You now can choose the foods that you want from a very large selection and not have to settle for the same meal weekly. The portion sizes for men are larger, they have specific programs for diabetics, vegetarians, those that want to go the low carb route and for those over 60 who have need different nutritional needs than those in their 30’s.
Just reading the long list of food choices can make you dizzy. Oh, and did I mention snacks and cakes? Yes, you’ll find chips, chocolate cake and cookies as part of your selection. Although still not quite as tasty as home cooked meals or a good as a local four star restaurant, the food actually is quite good. What is also good is the fact that they are still low calorie, low fat meals that will help you reach you weight loss goal fairly quickly. There are even plans that accelerate weight loss for when your in a bind to lose weight for a special event.
Although these diets are still referred to as portion controlled diets, don’t let the old reputations hold you back, portion controlled diets are back and better than ever in 2007. Next time your watching television and you see a celebrity talking about the portion diet that they are on, listen up,as it may just be what you are looking for to fit into those skinny jeans.
Patricia is a health focused content author, today giving you more insight into Portion Controlled Diets
