The Biggest Loser Diet

Is this popular program a fad or reality?

The Biggest Loser diet is based on the television show by the same name, and is based on the 4-3-2-1 plan of 4 servings daily of fruits and vegetables, 3 servings of lean protein, 2 servings of whole grains, and 1 serving of additional foods such as fats, oils, sweets, or alcohol that comprise no more than 200 calories. You have the option to choose 1200 calories, 1500 calories, or 1800 calories based on individual needs or your level or activity.

I was actually familiar with the Biggest Loser diet concept because I was a big fan of the television program when I had extra time on my hands, so I knew it was healthy and would work for me.

The emphasis of the Biggest Loser diet program is on high carbohydrates, low fat, and plenty of physical activity to burn the calories. It is a 12 week program, and instead of three big meals a day, you will eat small meals frequently that contain plenty of fibre and protein so that you will feel full without adding a good many calories to your daily intake.

The program concept is on the quality of the calories you consume in order to meet nutritional needs while you learn to enjoy healthier foods and lean protein thus taking care of hunger before you are aware of it.

What you will not find on this diet is white foods such as bread, pasta or potatoes that do nothing but stimulate your appetite. You also must drink 48-64 ounces of water daily.

The most difficult part for me was the bread and pasta. I had to learn to enjoy whole grain breads and pasta or do without, but strangely and happily I discovered whole wheat pasta tasted no different, and I developed a liking for whole wheat bread.

Exercise was the most difficult thing for me since I had not been in the habit of exercising the required 30-60 minutes every day. I took walks, but they were leisurely walks with my dog and lasted only as long as she needed to take care of her business.

It was not an easy transition for me, but I have to admit that it was well worth the effort. I had tried many other diet programs without success, but when I looked at this program, I felt confidant it would meet my needs.

During the 12 weeks of the program, I lost a total of 23 pounds, just a little less than I really wanted to lose. However, by remaining true to the concepts of the plan, I lost another 4 pounds within a couple of weeks. The Biggest Loser diet teaches you how to change your lifestyle to lose weight and keep it off, a concept I had not found with many of the diets I had considered.

It has been eight months now, and the weight is still off, my children are proud to walk with me, and my husband is more willing to take me places with him.

I would recommend the Biggest Loser diet program to anyone who needs to lose weight and is willing to do the work to keep it off. I have more energy than I have had in years to do the things I enjoy doing, and I no longer crave junk food.

In short, I have learned how to adjust my eating habits to remain slim, and you can, too.

Review by Sharon Thomas