Abs Diet
From The Abs Diet is a New York Times bestselling book. Published in
2004, this diet book offers yet another approach to weight loss and
healthy living. What makes this diet different than the other fad
diets to hit the best-seller list? And, most importantly, does the
Abs Diet work at shedding the pounds and keeping them off?
What Is It About?
Although the name may sound like another catchy title for a
quick-fix weight loss plan, The Abs Diet is based on human function
known to be true. Its basic premise is the weight loss potential of
turning body fat into muscle weight, particularly abdominal muscle
weight. More muscle means more calories are being burned and extra
pounds are lost.
The abdominal area of the body is the center of attention with this
diet because of its direct effect on health. More fat around the
middle has been shown to increase the risk of several diseases. For
example, abdominal fat produces elevated levels of free fatty acids,
which in turn impairs insulin break down. Elevated levels of insulin
can result in diabetic conditions. Also, excess weight around the
heart puts undesirable pressure on the pumping mechanism that can
lead to weakened heart function.
How Does It Work?
The Abs Diet promotes the consumption of nutritious foods and a
comprehensive fitness routine. Promising a simple, quick, flexible,
attainable and researched program, The Abs Diet focuses on the
following principles:
Consuming six meals per day, spread throughout the day, with a snack
two hours before each larger meal.
Choosing at least two foods from the “Powerfood” list. (See list in
next section)
Basing meals on protein, fiber, calcium and unsaturated fats
Limiting refined carbohydrates and saturated fats, including
trans-fat
Limiting alcohol consumption to no more than 2-3 drinks per week
Incorporating smoothie drinks into daily intake for their protein,
calcium, fiber and effect on satiety
Eating any foods you wish at one meal each week
Exercising for 20 minutes at least 3 days a week
Beginning two strength training workouts with a series of abdominal
exercises
The 12 Powerfoods
The recommended foods were chosen for their ability to fill you up
due to their fiber and protein content. The Abs Diet food list
consists of:
Almonds (and other nuts)
Beans and legumes
Spinach and other green leafy vegetables
Low fat or non-fat dairy products such as milk, yogurt and cheese
Unsweetened, unflavored oatmeal
Eggs
Lean meat such as turkey and chicken breast
Peanut butter
Olive oil
Whole grain breads and cereals
Whey protein powder
Berries
Does It Work?
Throughout the book, there are testimonials confirming the positive
results of following the plan. However, it is not much different
from other weight loss plans. It requires motivation, persistence
and discipline. Unfortunately, behaviors around food are not changed
overnight. Indeed, acquiring lean muscle mass to your body frame
will afford any person with a higher rate of calorie burn and a
healthier body weight. The Abs Diet does not contain any magical
dust in its pages for weight loss. Only with dedication and
determination will the guidelines work.
Is It Safe?
Overall, the program is healthy and outlines a safe way to live in
terms of food consumption and physical activity. Physical injuries
are always a concern for any person who has not been active and is
overweight. Starting each exercise slowly and within your limits is
critical to prevent injuries from occurring. It is suggested that
you seek the advice of your physician before beginning any weight
loss program