FAD diets are back in the spotlight as Australians chase quick-fix health solutions for the new year, according to a survey by nutrition and food tracking app, MyFitnessPal.
The findings reveal that nearly one in three Australians (32%) plan to adopt restrictive eating habits in 2025, despite 71% having previously tried and failed with fad diets.
Extreme low-calorie diets (42%), skipping meals (41%), and the raw food diet (18%) rank among the most popular trends. Nostalgic diets like juice cleanses (6%), the baby food diet (5%), and even the eggs and wine diet (3%) are also experiencing a revival.
Geographically, Tasmania (64%), the Northern Territory (39%), and South Australia (35%) are leading the trend towards dietary restrictions, often prioritising unrealistic standards over sustainable approaches to health.
Dr Gina Cleo, a habit researcher and dietitian, warns that restrictive diets may promise quick results but often come at the cost of nutrient deficiencies and unhealthy habits. “Sustainable success comes from balance, not restriction,” she said. “Small, consistent changes, such as prioritising protein and fibre over processed foods, lead to lasting results.”
The data also highlights a growing trend to cut specific foods, with nearly half of Australians (49%) planning to eliminate sweets (73%), fast food (55%), or even Australian staples like meat pies (33%).
MyFitnessPal ambassador Michaela Sparrow encourages balance, stating, “Tracking nutrition and making gradual adjustments can help Aussies achieve meaningful, lasting changes.”