The summer season is often synonymous with dieting, but health experts are sounding the alarm that some weight loss methods could be doing more harm than good. They argue that it's entirely possible to shed pounds without resorting to a diet.

The warmer months typically see a rise in trendy diets as people strive to slim down quickly ahead of their holidays. However, these 'quick-fix' solutions may pose more of a risk to your health than not altering your eating habits at all, warn experts.

Nutritionists from the weight-loss programme Second Nature have explored some of the potential dangers and suggest that you can still lose weight without the need for a diet. One of their main concerns is that these drastic diets can cause "significant setbacks to your weight loss journey" over time.

Robbie Puddick, a registered nutritionist at Second Nature, cautioned: "It's vital to be mindful of the drawbacks of these quick-fix diets. Rather than focusing your energy on short-term weight loss, investing your time on a sustainable weight loss journey is more important.

"Over the next few months, your wellness plan shouldn't centre around losing weight at an unattainable, and often unhealthy, pace which is what summer diets ultimately encourage."

Fad diets that eliminate entire food groups can be even more harmful. They cautioned that an unbalanced diet can "result in adverse health effects, such as headaches and weakness", while drastically cutting your calorie intake can "hugely impact both your mental and physical well-being".

While reducing your calorie intake is a proven method for weight loss, doing so in an unhealthy way can lead to "some worrying side effects" including dizziness, fatigue, brain fog, characterised by an inability to think clearly, and can seriously disrupt regular bowel movements. Moreover, the intense pressure to shed pounds quickly for the summer months can also result in burnout.

However, it's not just about abandoning the quest for a summer body before the season ends. The nutritionists disclosed healthier ways to lose weight without resorting to these restrictive diets, offering four simple steps.

Opt for healthier substitutes

The pros have dished out some fresh advice for those looking to shed pounds, suggesting a shift in focus from "eating less" to chowing down on healthier, more nutritious grub. They've warned: "Sugar-filled snacks can often cause you to become hungrier, so it's essential to be mindful of healthier substitutions to fuel your body while on your weight loss journey."

Whipping up a storm with meal-planning

Getting your diet on the right track is a breeze with a bit of meal-planning, say the experts. This savvy strategy not only keeps you clued-up on what you're eating during those hectic weekdays but also helps dodge the temptation to grab a takeaway or sneak in some naughty nibbles.

Get moving with a regular workout routine

Pairing wholesome nosh with a dollop of exercise could see you racing towards your weight goals, the nutrition gurus claim. You don't need to overhaul your life even small changes like hoofing it to work or quick-fire exercises at home, such as star jumps or spot running, can make a world of difference.

Set realistic targets

In their final pearl of wisdom, the specialists highlight that pie-in-the-sky weight loss dreams are often the downfall of summer slimming attempts. Instead of obsessing over the scales, they suggest setting achievable mini-goals, like improving your running speed or duration.