Description

From Scarsdale to NutriSystem, dieting is big business in the United States. Industry estimates vary, but experts believe that Americans spend at least $35 billion a year on specialized weight-loss plans and dietary products. With the Centers for Disease Control now classifying more than 30% of Americans as obese and another 30% as overweight, the demand for those slimming services will only get greater. Indeed there seems no end to reduced salt, low fat and sugar free products or people with a plan to help Americans lose weight. Yet despite all the testimonials on the television, in the newspaper, or on the Internet, one has to wonder if any of these schemes really work. From Atkins to Weight Watchers, The Gale Encyclopedia of Diets critically examines most of the commercially available and popular diet plans in the United States. Health experts describe the premise, dietary regime, functions and potential benefits of each diet, as well as recommended precautions and possible risks. Research supporting the type of diet plan and professional opinions of the diet plans also are evaluated. The 272 entries also include cross-cultural comparisons of traditional diets from around the world as well as overviews of the nutritional needs of children, adolescents, adults and the aged. Other articles explore the affect of diet on such health conditions as acne, ADHD and osteoporosis. Also analyzed are the potential risks and benefits of dietary supplements, minerals, nutrients and food groups. The benefits and demands of veganism, vegetarianism and specific religious dietary practices are reviewed. Other topics include bioengineered food, diet drugs, eating disorders, food labeling and nutrition literacy. Frequent sidebars highlight key terms, the nutritional content of foods, dietary recommendations and questions to ask your doctor. Each article lists both print and electronic resources for further research, including organization Web sites. A general glossary and index complete this useful guide to diet and nutrition. The set is highly recommended for public and academic libraries.