The Drive-Thru Diet Debunked

It’s that time again: a fresh start to a new year, new goals for 2010 and unfortunately new weight loss gimmicks trying to squeeze every last penny out of people’s weight loss resolutions.

Which brings us to Taco Bell’s latest jump into the weight loss arena with their Drive-Thru Diet.  Now, Taco Bell states the Drive Thru Diet is not a weight-loss plan, but rather a menu of healthier options. Interesting, as the commercial certainly appeals to those wanting to lose weight.  After all, the spokeswoman claims to have lost 54 pounds over two years supposedly because of her dining at Taco bell instead of at other fast food restaurants.

Christine claims that she reduced her total daily calorie intake by 500 calories to 1,250 calories by choosing Fresco items and “making other sensible choices.” Of course, there is absolutely no specifics as to how often she ate there, which could have been three times a day or once a year, but what’s interesting is the calorie counts of the foods listed on their Drive-Thru Diet Menu compared to their regular menu. The Drive-Thru Diet steak burrito boasts a measly 50 less calories than its regular menu counterpart.

What else is interesting, and should be scream marketing gimmick, is when a commercial is more disclaimers than actual diet information:

The Drive-Thru Diet is “not a weight loss program”

“These results aren’t typical, but for me they were fantastic!”

Fresco is “not a low calorie food.”

It’s great news that fast-food restaurants are turning the tide and offering healthier fare, but to create a diet plan based around a “healthier menu” at a fast food restaurant isn’t the magic answer to your weight loss and especially health concerns.  Could you lose weight eating at Taco Bell? Sure.  You could lose weight on a diet of milkshakes and Oreo’s, but one needs to consider their overall health when choosing a diet plan.

A good option is to eat a wide variety of healthy whole foods while lowering your daily caloric intake and exercising.  I know, it’s not as appealing as the Drive-Thru Diet, but it works.  And you will never feel better!