Question

It is perhaps unsurprising that fad diets are so common given the level of obesity in American society. But over the long term, most fad diets are harmful both to the health and to the waistline. Many such diets advocate cutting out one major nutrient, such as fats or carbohydrates. Others suggest fasting over long periods or eating from fixed menu options that may not meet the body’s needs. Most of these diets are highly impractical, and many lead directly or indirectly to binge eating and other unhealthy behaviors.

If the author added a description of a man who attempted several fad diets and ended up heavier than ever, what type of information would this be?

A main idea
A topic sentence
A supporting detail
An off-topic sentence

Answer 1

A description of a man who attempted several fad diets and ended up heavier than ever would be a supporting detail.

Step-by-step explanation:

A description of a man who attempted several fad diets and ended up heavier than ever would be a supporting detail. This information would provide evidence and examples to support the main idea or topic sentence of the passage, which is that most fad diets are harmful and ineffective in the long term. By describing a real-life scenario of someone who experienced negative outcomes from fad diets, the author strengthens their argument and reinforces the message that these diets are not a reliable solution for weight loss.