The 30-30-30 method is the protein-rich equivalent of millennials' obsession with avocado toast - generously slapped onto every weight loss conversation, but without the nutritional science to back it up. The diet proposes gulping down 30 grams of protein within 30 minutes of rolling out of bed, followed by a leisurely 30-minute cardio session. Sure, it's got a catchy ring to it, but let's resist the urge to abbreviate our health into cute slogans.

The first "30" suggests the consumption of 30 grams of protein right after wiping the sleep from your eyes. Yes, protein is the unsung hero of our bodily functions, repairing cells, promoting healthy growth, and flexing our muscle power. Chalk up heightened strength and muscle mass to protein, but let's not forget to mention the part it plays in regulating our snack-happy habits and weight management.

Our bodies don't operate on a protein meter, but a rough guideline for protein intake is 0.8 grams per kg of body weight. Now, stuffing down 30 grams of protein at breakfast might nudge you closer to that target-but getting carried away could cram your plate with cholesterol-ridden meats and send your fruit and vegetable intake downhill.

Onto the second "30" which suggests scarfing down your protein within 30 minutes of waking up. The science here is as thin as the reasoning. Sure, starting your day with a protein-packed breakfast can help avoid the post-sugar crash of a heavily refined breakfast, but who says you can't enjoy those benefits an hour or so later?

The final act of this three-part dietary drama brings in 30 minutes of low-intensity cardio. Kick-starting your day with physical activity is a thumbs up for your health, but if shedding weight is in your sight, you might need a little extra sweat and high-intensity action. Think brisk walking, jogging or even hitting up your favorite vinyasa flow class.

Sure, the 30-30-30 method might give you an Instagram-worthy post, but the scientific evidence backing this method is about as abundant as unicorns in Silicon Valley. A low-calorie diet mixed with regular, moderate exercise might not sound as glamorous, but its long-term positive effects on weight loss are no myth. And for those dealing with health conditions that affect weight, your healthcare provider might recommend medication to aid in weight loss, along with a balanced diet and exercise regime.

So, by all means, explore the 30-30-30 method as part of a broader balanced diet and exercise routine. But remember, like any viral trend, this one too will eventually end up on the cyber scrap heap, while balanced nutrition and sustained exercise are here to stay.