Rujuta Diwekar lists 3 signs that indicate ‘you are on the wrong diet’

*Only allowed to eat foods that are available in fancy cloud kitchens and not homemade.

*Supplements are more than food.

*The diet should suit your life, and the other way around. So, weight loss should be slow, steady, and sustainable.

Are these concerns true?

Dt. Gulnaaz Shaikh, Chief Dietitian at KIMS Hospitals, Thane, agreed that if it feels like constant compromise, it probably isn’t the right choice. “A sustainable diet should support your lifestyle and not force you to change it completely. You don’t need to wait months to see if a diet works for you; the signs appear much sooner,” said Shaikh.

The ‘imported-only’ plate

If your meal plan consists only of foods that sound unusual, complicated, or are only available through cloud kitchens and imported brands, that’s a warning sign. “Real nutrition comes from the foods you grew up with, like dals, rotis, seasonal fruits, and vegetables. If your plate lacks these familiar items and is filled only with things you can’t pronounce in your local language, it won’t last,” said Shaikh.

Supplements over food?

If your grocery basket is filled more with pills and powders than real food, take a moment to rethink. “When there’s a separate supplement for protein, fibre, fats, digestion, and even sleep, it suggests your diet is unbalanced. Supplements can help in specific situations, but they should never replace foods that nourish you,” said Shaikh.

You don’t have to necessarily eat avocado (Photo: Freepik)

A diet that steals your peace

Food should bring comfort, not confusion. “If you find yourself constantly planning whether to eat that second roti, worrying over a small dessert, or lying awake scrolling through endless body-transformation posts, your diet has already taken away your peace of mind. A good plan will never leave you feeling guilty about your everyday food choices. Remember, the goal of any diet is not extreme, short-term weight loss but long-term health and confidence,” said Shaikh.

Progress that is slow, steady, and sustainable is far more valuable than drastic results that don’t last. Shaikh reiterated that the right diet allows you to enjoy your meals, sleep well, and feel good in your own skin without taking away the colour and joy of life.

DISCLAIMER: This article is based on information from the public domain and/or the experts we spoke to. Always consult your health practitioner before starting any routine.