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Diet and Nutrition

4 Tips to Spot a Fad Diet That Probably Won’t Work

Lauren Smith, MAKaren Hovav, MD, FAAP
Written by Lauren Smith, MA | Reviewed by Karen Hovav, MD, FAAP
Updated on June 3, 2025
Reviewed by Karen Hovav, MD, FAAP | June 3, 2025

Fad diets often promise big results from following simple and unique rules. These rules might seem easy to follow for a short period of time, but fad diets are often difficult to stick to. If you can recognize the warning signs of fad diets early, you can avoid wasting your time and energy on them.

Talk to a healthcare provider (like a registered dietitian) if you need help eating a nutritious and balanced diet.

References

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Lauren Smith, MA
Written by:
Lauren Smith, MA
Lauren Smith, MA, has worked in health journalism since 2017. Before joining GoodRx, she was the senior health editor and writer for HealthiNation.
Karen Hovav, MD, FAAP, has more than 15 years of experience as an attending pediatrician. She has worked in a large academic center in an urban city, a small community hospital, a private practice, and an urgent care clinic.

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