Whatever your thoughts on banting, there is sufficient evidence that it works and that it improves people’s quality of life. There is however also some justified criticism. So let me give my opinion based on my own experience.

Banting is expensive and this is probably due to the hype generated around it. Also because of the special recipes that have been created. These recipes include ingredients that are sometimes almost impossible to get your hands on. In my personal experience I also found that not all the meals are to my liking.

At a number of occasions I tried banting and everytime I gave up after a while, simply because I found it unsustainable in normal life. Most restaurants do not serve banting friendly meals and eventually you are forced to eat something that you don’t really want to eat.

My take on it was to do a less restrictive take on banting where I applied the high fat principle but ignored the low carb prescription. This helped me to eat less because my body got its energy from the fat in its various forms. It also allowed me to eat in restaurants when I had to, without compromising on what I wanted to eat.

If you want to follow a banting diet and is happy with the restrictions imposed on you and are in a position where you can control it, it’s definitely a good option.

In my case I have opted to go for my alternative as explained in my previous post titled “Let’s talk diet”.

A last thought on any form of diet. Make sure you understand the impact on your health. I am not a medical expert and I don’t know how high cholesterol impacts heart disease. If you have a history of genetic high cholesterol, I would suggest you consult with a doctor.

In my case I haven’t seen any negative effect on my cholesterol levels and I have only experienced positives in every aspect of my health, from less pain and lower blood pressure to less fatigue and improved creativity and energy. Not to mention lower life assurance premiums.

It also allowed me to enjoy mountain biking and through mountain biking to meet many new and interesting people. I chose mountain biking but there are other options like hiking, running, rowing or numerous other activities. Choose your weapons and go for it!

Please let me know your thoughts on this and whatever you do, get your weight in control and become active. You won’t regret it.