Superdrug
FAT CHANCE
The Atkins and Slim Fast diets don't work - but WeightWatchers and Special K do, a study of weight-obsessed women revealed yesterday (Fri).
Atkins, a high protein/fat, low carb diet, was branded 'useless' by women across the country who are regularly fighting the battle of the bulge.
Slim Fast was also given the thumbs down as were the Cabbage Soup, Grapefruit and Coconut Diets.
Other diets which resulted in women successfully losing, and then keeping off, weight were Slimming World, Rosemary Conley and most calorie counting diets.
WeighWatchers emerged as the best diet for those wanting to shed a few pounds.
The research, carried out by Superdrug, also revealed the average female spends a whopping 88 days a year on a diet - stopping and starting four times and sticking to each diet for 22 days.
Superdrug's Superintendent pharmacist Martin Crisp said: ''Some women spend a large percentage of their lives on diets so they know what they're talking about when it comes to what works and what doesn't.
''Most are open to trying different diets and seeing what works for them.
''Obviously everyone is different, but the fact that the majority of girls we polled agree on a sensible approach to weight loss was very telling.
''The good news is women seem quite sensible with their expectations of what they can get from a diet.
''They recognise that diets which restrict the intake of certain food groups can only have a negative effect in the long run.
''Indeed, women favour diets which allow them to have a little bit of everything - still eating foods they enjoy like chocolate and bread, but eating less than usual.''
The study also found nearly half of women claimed they started a diet whenever they felt fat, while 41 per cent tried to lose weight whenever their favourite clothes didn't fit.
Four in ten slimmed down just before a holiday and 14 per cent tried to eat more healthy after a big weekend of eating and drinking.
More than half prefered diets which leave them feeling full after a meal, and 43 per cent chose those which were just a slight compromise on their existing eating plan.
Four in 10 ladies liked diets which allow treats and sweets, while 35 per cent want to be able to nibble and graze through the day.
Thirteen per cent simply wanted a diet which allowed them to lose weight quickly.
The research also revealed one in five girls have been unlucky enough to finish a diet and find they have put weight ON.
The other downside to some diets is that they cost more - with 66 per cent of girls admitting they spend more on foods when they are dieting.
But the money and effort were considered 'worth it' for 23 per cent of girls, who claim being thin is more important than happiness or looking fashionable.
Martin Crisp added: ''This research proves that women agree sensible weight loss is the best.
''Our nurses and pharmacists offer personalised plans on a 12 week programme which offers practical advice and support for those serious about losing weight this year.''
DIETS WHICH WORK
1. Weight Watchers
2. Calorie Counting
3. Slimming World
4. Rosemary Connelly
5. Kellogg Special K
DIETS WHICH DON'T WORK
1. Cabbage Soup Diet
2. Atkins
3. Grapefruit Diet
4. Slim Fast
5. Coconut Diet
ENDS
