New research from wellness brand Lily & Loaf has uncovered a concerning trend: while over 61.8% of consumers follow restrictive diets, half still experience intense cravings for sugar and processed foods. Additionally, 69.7% of respondents report digestive issues, highlighting potential nutrient deficiencies and health imbalances.
Restrictive Diets and Cravings: A Growing Concern
Lily & Loaf’s Lifestyle Analysis Health Check has shed light on the challenges faced by those who follow restrictive diets, such as gluten-free, dairy-free, vegetarian, or vegan lifestyles. While these diets are often chosen for health, ethical, or personal reasons, the findings suggest they may not always lead to balanced nutrition.
According to the study, 50.5% of respondents reported craving sweet or processed foods despite their dietary restrictions. This suggests that simply eliminating certain food groups does not necessarily curb unhealthy cravings. Instead, it may lead to unintentional nutrient gaps that drive the body to seek high-calorie, sugary alternatives.
Nutritional Deficiencies and Health Impacts
The research also highlights a range of health challenges faced by those on restrictive diets:
- 69.7% experience digestive issues, including irregular bowel movements, post-meal discomfort, and difficulty digesting certain foods.
- 29.8% report low energy levels, while 31.3% experience muscle or joint discomfort.
- Over 25.6% say they live stressful lifestyles, which may further contribute to their cravings and health struggles.
- 26.9% feel low or apathetic, while 24.6% admit to frequent irritability or anger.
These findings align with growing concerns from health experts about the potential risks of restrictive eating patterns.
Expert Insight: The Need for Balanced Nutrition
Allison Prebble (BA Hons, MSc Nutritional Therapy, Dip KA), a Nutritional Therapist at Lily & Loaf, emphasises the importance of proper nutrient intake when following a restrictive diet.
“By cutting out entire food groups, people may unintentionally create nutrient deficiencies,” Prebble explains. While restrictive diets can be beneficial for managing allergies or intolerances, many individuals adopt them without fully understanding how to replace missing nutrients. Over time, these deficiencies can lead to more intense cravings and may even contribute to disordered eating behaviours.
She adds, “Eliminating the root cause of health issues is crucial. For example, a coeliac patient must avoid gluten, but they should also ensure they are getting a variety of essential nutrients from other sources.”
Prebble strongly recommends consulting a qualified Nutritional Therapist, Dietitian, or Doctor before adopting restrictive diets to ensure proper intake of vitamins, minerals, and macronutrients. By addressing these gaps, individuals can maintain better energy levels, reduce cravings, and build a healthier relationship with food.
A More Balanced Approach to Health and Wellness
Andrew Ewan, Managing Director at Lily & Loaf, highlights the need for a more sustainable approach to health.
“Our findings show that restrictive diets may seem like an easy solution for managing weight, allergies, or health goals. However, they often leave individuals struggling with cravings, low energy, and mood imbalances,” says Ewan. At Lily & Loaf, we advocate for a balanced, well-informed approach to nutrition ensuring people meet their dietary needs while still achieving their health goals.
Lily & Loaf offers high-quality supplements and expert guidance to help individuals bridge dietary gaps and achieve sustainable well-being. By prioritising balanced nutrition over extreme restrictions, individuals can support both their immediate well-being and long-term health.
