Dr. Joel Fuhrman claims that dieters will achieve success on his plan and promises weight loss of up to 20 pounds within six weeks.
Basics of Eat to Live Diet
The book includes an aggressive six-week vegetarian plan for those who want to lose weight fast and a more moderate plan that allows the intake of animal products in limited amounts. The basic concept is expressed by the formula Health=Nutrients/Calories, and he says our health is directly related to this ratio.
Calorie counting is not required because as long as you follow the recommended guidelines, it would be difficult for dieters to achieve a high calorie intake. If desired, dieters are allowed to eat one egg white omelet per week and one serving of lean fish, such as: sole, flounder or tilapia once per week.
Recommended Foods
Salads as the main dish with cooked green vegetables, mushrooms, tomatoes, and raw vegetables in unlimited amounts.
- Raw nuts, 1 oz. maximum per day
- Fruits, at least 4 servings daily
- Starchy vegetables, such as: corn, potatoes and whole grains are limited to 1 cup daily
- Avocado, 2 oz. maximum per day
- Ground flax seed, 1 tbsp. per day
All refined carbohydrates including pasta, bread, white rice, fruit juice, and sugar are to be completely avoided.
Sample Diet Plan
Non-Vegetarian Meal Plan (for moderate weight loss)
Breakfast
1/2 cup Soymilk or skim milk; 2 cups cooked oatmeal with 1 tbsp. ground flax seed, 1 banana, and 1 oz. raisins
Lunch
1 cup Chickpeas, green salad with balsamic vinegar and 1 tsp. olive oil, vegetable soup
Dinner
Stir-fried vegetables with tofu and chicken, salad with lemon juice and orange, steamed string beans with onions and mushrooms
Vegetarian Meal Plan (for aggressive weight loss)
Breakfast
Baked apple with raisins and cinnamon
Lunch
Whole-wheat pita bread stuffed with hummus and salad, fresh fruit
Dinner
Broccoli and red pepper soup, mixed baby greens with peppercorn dressing, 1 slice seven-grain bread
Exercise Recommendations
Fuhrman advocates the importance of exercise, however, if someone's ability to be active is limited, due health issues, then with his menu plans the dieter can lose weight without exercise.
Pros
- Reduces the risk of, and may actually reverse, diseases associated with aging, such as: cancer, diabetes and cardiovascular disease
- Helpful for dieters who want to lose weight fast
- Includes menu plans and recipes with both vegetarian and non-vegetarian options
- Recommends the intake of fresh fruits and vegetables
Cons
- Eating out is very difficult because it is extremely restrictive
- Food preparation requires time
- May not provide adequate protein for very physically active dieters
- Many dieters would probably not enjoy eating this way
Conclusions
Dr. Fuhrman's diet plan is supported by scientific research. It is however, important to be aware that not everyone responds favorably to this approach. |
