As millions of Brits embark on New Year's resolutions to eat better, a leading health expert has issued a stark warning about the dangerous trends and misinformation that could sabotage their efforts in 2026.
The Warning Signs of a Fad Diet
Vanessa Sturman, a 37-year-old healthy eating and behaviour coach from Barnet, London with a decade of experience, cautions that over 80 per cent of people will abandon their January resolutions. She attributes this high failure rate to weight loss schemes built on "unrealistic promises" and a disregard for established science.
Sturman explains that the post-Christmas period often leads to a flood of online searches for quick fixes. "Many programmes, products and pieces of advice could be overpriced, ineffective, and sometimes even unsafe," she states. "Most January diets don't fail because of willpower; they fail because they are built on guilt, restriction, unscientific claims, and promises no programme can deliver."
Key Red Flags for Dieters to Avoid
Vanessa Sturman highlights several critical warning signs that should make anyone sceptical of a new diet plan:
- Unrealistic Claims: Promises of losing 10kg in two weeks or rapid belly fat reduction are major red flags. "Quick weight loss might happen with a large calorie deficit, but it rarely leads to sustainable weight management and often backfires," she advises.
- 'Secret Formulas' and Miracle Cures: Be wary of any plan touting a hidden method or miracle supplement. Sturman stresses there are no secret shortcuts to lasting health.
- Fear-Based Messaging: Influencers who label everyday foods as "toxic" are using scare tactics. Sturman uses seed oils as an example, noting they are not inflammatory and can be a heart-healthy alternative to butter when used appropriately.
- Dismissing All Experts: Claims that "all the experts are wrong" are classic clickbait. "If someone claims that doctors, researchers, or major health organisations have it all wrong, ask yourself why this one person supposedly knows more than decades of science," she urges.
- Suggestions to Abandon Medical Advice: Any plan that advises you to stop prescribed medication or ignore your doctor's guidance is dangerous and should be avoided immediately.
Building Sustainable Habits for 2026
Instead of restrictive, short-term diets, Vanessa Sturman advocates for a gradual, enjoyable approach woven into daily life. The key to success, she says, is integrating better habits slowly rather than eliminating entire food groups.
"Whether you are getting professional support, making changes yourself, or following influencers online, keep your eyes peeled for these red flags," she advises. Discussing any significant dietary changes with your GP is also a crucial step to ensure safety and effectiveness.
Her golden advice is to build a flexible, balanced eating plan rich in fruits, vegetables, lean protein, complex carbohydrates, and healthy fats. "Build habits that support your energy, performance, and long-term health, and actually stick," she concludes, emphasising that the goal is a sustainable lifestyle, not just a January fix.
