Most get-thin-fast plans revolve around the idea that restricting your intake of one particular nutrient, usually carbs, is the best way to lose weight. Initially it's true, if you cut out carbs, you will lose quite a bit of weight rapidly.

Carbs do come in different variations. There are "healthy carbs" and "unhealthy carbs". Healthy carbs are generally low GI carbs, such as wholegrains, oats, fruit, vegetables, etc. Unhealthy carbs are refined sugar, white rice, white breads, sugary drinks and desserts.

Carbs are essential to the body's growth and maintenance. They provide your body with energy to complete all the necessary bodily functions.

Tiredness and a lack of energy can also result from insufficient carbohydrate intake. When glycogen stores get depleted, so can your energy.

Carbohydrates are the basis of grains, fruits and vegetables, and milk also has a significant amount in the form of lactose. When you eliminate or severely limit these foods, you are likely to have a grossly inadequate intake of many essential vitamins, minerals, antioxidants, fiber and water that carbohydrates provide.

As much as cutting out carbs will give you fast initial weight loss, total calories are the most important factor for weight loss. To lose weight, you need to take in fewer calories than you burn . Restricting your total calorie intake is the only way forward without cutting out a food group.

It's important to get a good balanced and varied diet, to give your body all the nutrients it needs. Hence cutting out a food group is a big no no. But definitely do swap the "unhealthy carbs" by healthy ones, and get a much better diet.

If you need help with your diet and weight loss effort, contact me, Anne Iarchy, Personal Trainer North and North West London, on 07880627944 or email me at anne@barnetpersonaltrainer.co.uk