Fad diets are often popular because of the quick weight loss you may experience in the first few weeks, but this gradually slows over time. In reality this initial weight loss is mostly due to the loss of glycogen (stored energy in muscles) and water, not fat, so as soon as you start to eat "normally" again, the weight comes back, usually with a few more kilos than you had originally.

Fad diets are often nutritionally inadequate, which can lead to more serious health complications. And while on the subject of quick fixes, there is also little evidence supporting the benefit of non-prescription weight-loss pills or supplements.

So what can you do? It sounds simple, however evidence shows that there are three common habits amongst people who successfully lose weight:

1. eating less fat;
2. monitoring food intake (often with the use of a food diary); and
3. increasing physical activity levels.

The approach to weight control in children is a little different to that for adults. Children need to be taught healthy eating habits from an early age, and physical activity should be strongly encouraged. If you need to make changes to your child's diet, try to have them adopted by the whole family. Encourage positive changes with praise and non-food rewards.

Remember, successful, long-term weight loss requires adopting healthy lifestyle habits that you and your family can maintain for the rest of your lives. There are no "quick fixes". Let us know what you think.

Your say: Have you tried any 'quick-fix' diets? How do you make sure you keep a balanced diet? Share with us below...