Which diets really work? We look for answers around the globe

CINCINNATI - Are there any diets out there that really work? That's what we wondered, so we looked to other countries that are in better shape than we are to examine the top diets from around the world.

Nutritionist Marlo Mittler says in South America, the Hot Latin Diet is all the craze.

It involves seven superfoods that are spicy and flavorful like cilantro, chickpeas, and avocado.

Those foods help flush out toxins and increase your metabolism.

Mittler tells us, "the concept is you put them into your food, not only will it be helpful from a health perspective, but it will also allow you to have smaller portions because things that are tastier nip your tastebuds and you're satisfied."

While Mittler says it can work, but you have to put in a lot of time to cook the meals. 

Then there's The Dukan Diet from France. Kate Middleton was rumored to have been on this diet for her royal wedding.

The diet incorporates high protein foods. Mittler explains, "it's very high in protein and we know that too much protein affects your kidneys and you can develop kidney stones and kidney damage. It tells you in the first few days, you're going to feel like you have the flu, it's not the flu, it's your body's reaction."

Mittler says any diet that makes your body react that way is not worth it.

In Japan, the Morning Banana Diet has you eating 1 to 4 bananas every morning.

Mittler says  "the concept is the banana has a resistant starch that is digested in your lower intestine so you stay fuller longer and bananas are nutritious with lots of potassium and vitamins and minerals."

But bananas can also be constipating and Mittler says eating the same thing everyday is hard to stick with.

The Ice Cube Diet from Israel is one of Mittler's favorites.  You can eat what you want, but before your biggest meal, suck on an ice cube with Hoodia in it.

Mittler says Hoodia has a natural ingredient that curbs appetite. "It sends a signal to your brain after you've had it that you've already eaten, the same way your blood sugars would rise after your carbohydrates. So without food it helps you to be less hungry."

Mittler says if done the right way, any of these diets can help you lose weight.

But, if you want to keep the weight off, the bottom line is exercise and healthy eating.