Relevant Studies

Each of our groups has been designed around sound and relevant research.  The following are some of the most important sources of research that we have used to build the content for this group.

Why Do We Diet?

• To be thin
• To be healthier
• To be happier
• To fit in
• To be more attractive
• To be better at sports.

​What Really Happens?

• ​Thinness is temporary since the majority of diets actually fail.
• Diets actually increase health risks due to diet cycling.
• Most diets fail, making us unhappy.
• Diets actually set you apart from others since your eating has been restricted.
• What are you attracted to? Is attraction 100% physical or is it more involved?
• On a diet your body isn't at its peak and can't perform the way it normally could.

​How Do We Diet?

• Skipping meals or eating less calories
• Cutting out starchy food
• Cutting out protein
• Going on commercial diet plans
• Fasting

What Really Happens?

• We store fat more easily since we are eating fewer calories and crave high fat foods.
• We lose the best source for stable energy and may feel moody and tired.
• We risk iron deficiency, which leads to fatigue and more hunger between meals.
• Diets don't work: There is a 95% chance of regaining the weight you lost in 1-2 years.
• Most of the weight loss is water; and muscle mass decreases lowering metabolism, which can be medically dangerous.

The Diet Cycle

Source: The Body Image Project Tool Kit, pg. 59, The Eating Disorder Action Group, www.edag.ca