6. THE ZONE

www.zonediet.com

Diet Dish:  No wonder a biochemist devised this weight loss plan because if you are good at measuring, then this diet may be the right fit for you.  According to Dr. Barry Sears each zone meal should consist of 40% carbohydrates, 30% protein, and 30% fats. It is believed that this ratio will help control hunger and improve performance levels.

What’s on the menu?

• Low-fat protein - such as chicken breast, turkey, ground beef
• Carbohydrates – vegetables, fruit and barley
• Fats – Olive oil, certain nuts, avocado

Celebrity Fans:  Jennifer Aniston and Cindy Crawford

Pros:  Some experts say the diet is easy to follow and the high fiber and Omega 3’s can help with weight-loss, cardiovascular health and cholesterol.

Cons:  The strict portion control and splitting meals into the 40-30-30 ratio may be too confusing for some.

7. 5-FACTOR DIET

www.5factordiet.com

Diet Dish:  It was one of the best-kept secrets in Hollywood.  Now, the creator of the 5-Factor Diet reveals the tricks he used to trim our favorite stars so we can get in on the action too.  Celebrity Trainer, Harley Pasternak’s plan might not include calorie counting or measuring but his 5 meals a day and 5 workout sessions a week can help followers lose weight.

What’s on the menu? Each meal should consist of the following 5 items:

• Lean Protein
• Low-Glycemic Carbohydrates
• Healthy Fats
• Fiber
• Sugar-free drink

Celebrity Fans:  Jessica Simpson, Alicia Keys, Katherine Heigl

Pros:  The combination of balancing your day with meals and exercise make this an appealing program to some.  Knowing celebrities have seen results is also a plus.

Cons:  Some experts say there’s not enough scientific research and evidence to prove this plan is more than a fad.

8. THE 3-HOUR DIET

www.3hourdiet.com

Diet Dish:  It sounds like a food lovers dream.  The theme to this plan is eating…every 3 hours.  The program suggests timing your meals is key to boosting energy levels and taking inches off your waist.

What’s on the menu? Since Jorge Cruise, the creator of the diet, believes there are “no bad foods” dieters can basically fill their plates with their favorite items…even carbs.  His plan even makes room for fast food and dessert. 

Celebrity Fans: Lucy Liu, Jennifer Lopez and Angelina Jolie   

Pros:  All food fanatics are welcome.  The site includes meals and recipes for meat lovers, carb lovers and vegetarians. Jorge Cruise offers one-on-one coaching through online videos.

Cons: There is a fee to access meal plans and coaching sessions.

9. THE SOUTH BEACH DIET

www.southbeachdiet.com

Diet Dish:  As the world turned their backs on carbs, The South Beach diet was introduced.  Dr. Arthur Agatston created the weight-loss plan, to help his patients improve their weight and health.  Now one of the most popular programs in the country, Dr. Agatston teaches followers how to introduce good carbs and fats back into their daily meals.

What’s on the menu? The diet is divided into 3 phases.  The first phase trains your body to cut cravings and introduces foods that will make you feel less hungry and more satisfied.  All refined starches should be eliminated.  Then, Phase 2 adds carbs back, but only the good ones.  Phase 3 ties all the program’s principles together for maintaining a healthy weight and lifestyle. 

Some sample meals are:

• Chicken Breasts Stuffed With Spinach and Goat Cheese
• Seared Pecan Salmon With Lentils
• Garlic and Soy Grilled Pork Chops

Celebrity Fans:  The Clintons and Kim Cattrall

Pros:  Some experts believe you can lose weight quickly on this diet, especially during phase I.  It can also help you beat the belly fat that helps lower risk of heart disease.

Cons:  The weight should stay off if followers of the plan incorporate the principles into their everyday lives.

Readers should always consult with their health practitioner before making any dietary or physical activity changes.

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