For 200 years, diet fads have come and gone, sometimes reappearing under different names, but always attracting legions of followers. Many who adhere, for a time at least, to a diet fad's requirements often have little knowledge of whether it is safe or effective. By the time reliable information comes to light, a fad may already have disappeared. This encyclopedia describes many of the health fads and fashions of the past, as well as current trends in weight loss, examining the pros and cons of different plans. The authors help to identity effective means of losing weight and maintaining a healthy lifestyle. Particular emphasis is placed on weight-loss programmes aimed at young people, who are experiencing the highest rates of obesity in history. This volume introduces a wide variety of weight-loss methods. Some entries describe a particular diet, some describe a support group or service, while others discuss people who have changed the way Americans eat. An extensive appendix on weight-loss resources helps readers chose the most nutritionally sound programme for their needs. Above all, this encyclopedia stresses nutritionally sound approaches, rather than a "quick fix". As the authors emphasize, weight loss is merely one component of healthy living.