A third of adults who have dieted told NO ONE about it because they were ‘ashamed’, according to a study.
Researchers found many of those who have changed their diet were worried about failing publicly, while others were embarrassed to be dieting in the first place.
Similarly, a third would rather diet alone than do it jointly with someone else.
And any talk of dieting is off limits for four in 10 – they rarely or never discuss their eating habits with their friends, colleagues or even their partner.
Commissioned by The 1:1 Diet by Cambridge Weight Plan, the research of 2,000 adults found 69 per cent of the population have been on a diet at one time or another.
The ‘shame’ of dieting combined with a lack of support are the reasons healthy eating plans often don’t work out.
Mark Gilbert, nutritionist at The 1:1 Diet by Cambridge Weight Plan, said: “Diet shouldn’t be a dirty word – no one should feel ashamed of changing their food intake to achieve their desired goals as long as the diet contains proper nutrition and their goals are appropriate for them.
“The fact is most people go on a diet at some point to lose weight. So, we have to be able to discuss this word if we are to properly address the current obesity crisis.
“Of course, everyone is different, so it makes sense to get the proper support to choose an appropriate diet, which will have a greater chance of success.”
The research also found many of those polled are fed-up with perpetually dieting and feeling like they’re not getting anywhere.
Forty per cent said they are ‘constantly’ on a cycle of eating healthily, eating unhealthily, eating healthily and so on.
But for many a lack of appealing ‘good’ food options often puts an end to their diet – or more specifically the plentiful selection of indulgent ‘bad’ foods.
Further to this, cake, pizza, along with fish and chips are the dishes likely to cause us to quit a diet.
The 1:1 Diet by Cambridge Weight Plan study carried out through OnePoll found our main requirements when choosing a diet are how easy it is to follow and how well it fits with our lifestyle.
Mark Gilbert added: “When deciding whether to go on a diet or which diet to choose, it is important to select one which suits you.
“It’s easy to be overwhelmed by the many options out there and this is where a diet consultant or your GP can help.
“They can suggest changes to your lifestyle which could make a significant difference to your quality of life.”
