The diet industry is booming, with an estimated global value of over $250 billion. With so many options — from keto to intermittent fasting, plant-based to paleo — it can be overwhelming to know which plan to trust or follow. While some eating programs can help improve your health, many are designed for profit, not your personal wellbeing.
Before you start a new diet, it’s essential to ask the right questions to determine if it’s safe, sustainable, and right for you. You might also consider checking in with a GP, nutritionist, or accredited practising dietitian for professional guidance tailored to your needs. You can find one through Dietitians Australia. You can also find one at Vively.
1. Will I be eating enough?
Many diets focus on restriction — slashing calories, removing food groups, or encouraging rapid weight loss. While this might bring short-term results, it can lead to long-term issues such as:
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Slower metabolism
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Nutrient deficiencies
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Muscle loss
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Fatigue and poor concentration
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Disordered eating patterns
Instead of focusing on deprivation, look for a balanced diet that includes:
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Adequate macronutrients (carbohydrates, protein, and fat)
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Key micronutrients (like iron, calcium, and B12)
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Whole, minimally processed foods
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Regular meals and snacks that leave you satisfied
Tip: Speak with a health professional to determine your individual energy needs. Everyone’s required intake is different depending on age, weight, activity level, and health status. Once you understand how many kilojoules (or calories) your body needs, you can assess whether a diet meets those needs safely.
2. Is the diet tailored to me?
Despite what many books or influencers claim, no diet works for everyone. Many mainstream diet plans are based on studies with a narrow sample — often focused on the average adult female who exercises moderately.
If you don’t fit that profile — for example, if you’re an older adult, highly active, have a chronic health condition, or are managing hormonal shifts — the diet may not be effective or even safe for you.
Working with a qualified nutrition professional allows you to:
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Identify your individual dietary needs
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Adjust for medical conditions or allergies
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Create a realistic and personalised plan that fits your goals and lifestyle
You can check for credentials by looking for an Accredited Practising Dietitian (APD) registered with Dietitians Australia.
3. Can I afford it long term?
Many diet programs come with ongoing costs:
| Expense | Examples |
|---|---|
| Subscription fees | App-based diets, weekly meal plans |
| Books and guides | Printed diet books or cookbooks |
| Specialty foods | Organic-only items, rare superfoods, imported goods |
| Supplements | Protein powders, detox teas, or fat burners |
A good diet should be budget-friendly, practical, and sustainable. It should allow you to:
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Buy foods from your local supermarket or farmers’ market
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Prepare meals using accessible ingredients
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Avoid expensive or unnecessary supplements
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Adapt recipes based on what’s in season or on sale
If a plan requires you to drastically change your shopping habits or spend beyond your means, it may be difficult to maintain.
To better understand how to structure your meals, explore our blog on a balanced diet and how is it achieved.
Before diving into any new diet, take time to reflect on whether it’s truly designed for your health, your body, and your life. Ask yourself:
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Am I getting the nutrition I need?
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Is this plan built for my specific needs?
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Will this diet fit my budget and routine?
Getting expert advice is one of the best ways to start off on the right foot. Speaking with a dietitian or GP can help ensure your health goals are met without compromising your wellbeing.
Want to learn more about healthy eating habits and holistic wellness? Visit our Nutrition hub for helpful resources and expert support.
