Facial analysis diets: The naturopathic theory that illnesses and stresses can be diagnosed by facial characteristics is taken one step further with facial analysis diets. Practitioners categorize the physical appearance of the face into one of six main types and recommend an eating plan to improve symptoms of underlying health problems and to promote weight loss. Certain foods will be banned and others will be compulsory on a facial analysis diet; for example, people with greasy foreheads, large, open pores and droopy, sagging cheeks should avoid rice, mayonnaise and tomatoes and eat apples, cherries and asparagus. Body sensitivity diets: People who are confused about whether to cut carbohydrates or count calories are offered help with body sensitivity diets. These are based on the theory that some people are naturally more inclined to gain weight if they eat too many carbohydrates, whereas others are more sensitive to calories from any source. Two eating plans are offered, catering for each sensitivity, both low in calories but one specifically low in carbohydrates. Body shape diets: Specific help for women is offered by body shape diets, which recommend a different dieting approach for women who have either an 'apple' or a 'pear' shape. This approach goes beyond the well-researched fact that carrying excess fat around the abdomen can increase specific health risks, compared to having surplus fat on the hips and thighs. It suggests that 'apple' and 'pear' shaped women should take up different exercise plans, contraceptive choices and diet strategies depending on their body shape. For example, 'worst foods' for 'pears' include fatty foods, salt and sweets, while 'apples' should avoid foods made with white flour. Body-type diets may not be based on conventional weight loss wisdom but that does not mean they will not work. The restrictions and quirks involved mean that generally they will reduce overall calorie intake, sometimes quite dramatically, which should result in weight loss. There is no sound scientific evidence to suggest that body shape or type can make it any easier, or more difficult, to create the energy deficit necessary to lose weight. The more restrictive and inflexible a diet, the less likely It is to follow healthy-eating principles and the harder it will probably be to stick to. Back to fitness & training