Types of alternative diets and the reasons for their popularity among adults

Introduction. Alternative diets involve deliberate exclusion or limitation of the intake of certain products/product groups, or avoiding certain cooking techniques. Alternative diets enjoy increasing popularity.

Aim. The objective of the study was to analyze the types of alternative diets and the reasons for their popularity among adults.

Material and methods. The study included 115 persons, who had previously followed or are currently following at least one alternative diet. They were recruited using the snowball method. Data were collected through a self-administered questionnaire that included a metric and questions on the dietary habits of the respondents.

Results. The study involved 105 women and 10 men aged between 18 and 65.The most common reasons for following diets were the need to reduce weight, concerns about health and wellbeing, and philosophical beliefs. Benefits included weight reduction and improved wellbeing. The negative effects listed were weakness, sensation of hunger, and the yo-yo effect. The main source of knowledge on alternative diets was the Internet. The majority of the respondents did not receive medical or dietary consultations before starting the diet. Almost half of the survey participants did not undergo preventive examinations while following alternative diets.

Conclusion. The use of alternative diets can prove beneficial, but it also involves certain risks. The start of a diet should be preceded by consultation with a health care professional.