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11FEATUREWe also need to understand that physiologically, crash dieting can lead to nutritional imbalances. By restricting the types and quantities of food consumed, we may not obtain all the necessary nutrients that our bodies require. This can result in fatigue, dehydration, muscle loss, lower metabolism, nutrient deficiencies, and even an increased risk of illness like gallstones. For similar reason, those suffering from chronic conditions (e.g. diabetes and other metabolic disorders) would carry even higher risk from crash dieting (e.g diabetics triggering life-threatening ketoacidosis from prolonged fasting). Furthermore, since crash dieting often involves shortterm, unsustainable, and excessive restriction in order to achieve an unrealistically rapid weight loss (such as losing more than 0.5 to 1 kilogram per week), when the dieting stops, weight regain and fluctuations are possible. This pattern of weight loss and regain is also known as the %u201cyo-yo effect%u201d or %u201cyo-yo dieting%u201d.So, how should we address the physical and mental health issues brought about by diet culture? Firstly, we may discuss with our patients to embrace the concept of body diversity and self-love, dissociating our values from appearance. At the same time, we need to recognise that physical health and psychological balance are interconnected, and true health can only be achieved through a combination of healthy eating and a positive mindset.An alternative concept to dieting is healthy eating, which is frequently mentioned, although the definition of %u201chealthy%u201d may vary for each individual. Simply put, healthy eating involves consuming nutrient-rich foods that make us feel energised. These food choices typically include the right balance of fruits, vegetables, lean meats, and carbohydrates. By making moderate, balanced, and healthier food choices, listening to our body%u2019s needs, and managing hunger and cravings sensibly, along with incorporating regular and realistic exercise plans, we can cultivate a sustainable mindset and approach weight loss as a long-term lifestyle change, bringing positive transformations to our health.Furthermore, there are some practical strategies and behaviour modifications we may consider discussing with our patients during meal planning for healthier eating, for example:%u2022Problem areas of food intake (e.g. meals that are particularly difficult to adjust such as fast foods, eating out etc.) and ways of substituting with better food choices%u2022Identify the social cues to unhealthy eating (e.g. extra snacking during social gatherings, watching In summary, we need to embrace the concept of diverse beauty and consider health as the true goal, rather than pursuing short-term dieting methods for appearance alone. By adopting a healthy diet and engaging in moderate exercise, we can establish a sustainable lifestyle and enjoy physical and mental well-being. It%u2019s important to pay attention to the needs of our bodies, listen to ourselves, and find the right balance of healthy eating and exercise that works for us individually. Let%u2019s embrace diversity, self-love, and prioritise our physical and mental health. Conflict of interest: None declaredReference1.Macpherson-S%u00e1nchez A. E. (2015). Integrating fundamental concepts of obesity and eating disorders: implications for the obesity epidemic. American journal of public health, 105(4), e71%u2013e852.Keys A, Brozek J, Henschel A, et al. Minneapolis, MN: University of Minnesota Press; 1950. The biology of human starvation: volume II.3.%u201cEating Disorders on the College Campus.%u201d National Eating Disorders Association, Feb. 2013.4.The Florida House Experience (FHE Health). %u201cBody Image and Social Media Questionnaire%u201d. Available online on - https://fherehab.com/news/bodypositive/%u201cSubmissions of articles to Feature / Family Doctors Column / Young Doctors Column with up to 1200 words are always welcome. Options of College Souvenirs or Gift vouchers will be given as a token of appreciation if the articles are selected for publication. Email: FPLinks@hkcfp.org.hk%u201dIt is not always easy to make healthy diet options during eating out.TV, emotional eating to relieve work stress or boredom, etc.) %u2022Avoid self-defeating behaviours (e.g. Obsessing about perfection, blaming, negative self-talk, self-guilt, etc.)%u2022Setting of realistic goals for the lifestyle changes%u2022Establish a support system from peers and family for better lifestyle