Tuesday 18 March 2014

Curves – A low-carb diet

Originator: Gary Heavin is a self-proclaimed health counselor.

 Claims: According to Heavin, dieting turns on “starvation hormones” that enable the body to survive on less food and burn energy. He’s created a “miracle” method to re-set your metabolism that will correct the effects of yo-yo dieting.

 Sustainability: There are two plans. Both recommend six small meals a day. One plan is carbohydrate sensitive, and the other is calorie sensitive. Both are high in protein and limit carbohydrates including bread, rice, pasta, potatoes and sweets. Phase 1 of both plans last two weeks allowing 20 grams of carbohydrates a day. Phase 2 adds certain fruits, vegetables and some whole grains. The meal plans include a Curves protein shake and Curves nutritional supplements. Phase 3 is 2,500 –3,000 calories a day (“Miracle Metabolize”).

The complicated process of alternating between the different phases based on weight fluctuation is not realistic for long-term “permanent” healthy weight.

 The meal plans are inadequate for meeting daily vitamin and mineral requirements.

 Weight loss: Phase 1 and 2 low calorie (1200 to 1400) and low carbohydrate intake. If combined with exercise, they are likely to promote weight loss.

 Research: No scientific basis.

Quick take: Strong emphasis on exercise. Limits total carbohydrate intake. Claims to reset your metabolism. Recommends nutritional supplements.

 Eat, Cheat, And Melt the Fat Away  – A low-carb diet:

Originator: Sitcom actress Suzanne Somers, of thigh master infomercials and author of “Get Skinny on Fabulous Food.”

Claims: A unique food combining program will make your body burn fat faster, balance your out-of-whack hormones and set your metabolism on high. The diet is targeted for people over 40 since their metabolism is slower. Additionally, you can get rid of asthma, irritable bowel syndrome and lose weight.

Sustainability: The diet is based on a food combining principle known as “Seven Easy Steps to Somersizing.” Examples include eating protein and fat with vegetables but not with carbohydrates, then waiting three hours to eat carbohydrates. Additionally, eliminate all “funky foods” such as sugar, potatoes, bananas, corn, pasta, milk, caffeine and alcohol. Level two focuses on maintaining weight loss and cheat foods, but still following the food combining rules.

Weight loss: The diet is low in fiber, calcium and vitamin D, requiring supplementation. Additionally, it’s high in saturated fat, cholesterol and low in calories. This could result in weight loss. There is nothing written about regular physical activity.

Research: There is no evidence that combining particular foods at a meal has any sort of weight loss benefits.

Quick take: The diet is based on food combining principles, which eliminates dairy, and restricts high glycemic index foods.

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