You've probably read about it, heard people talk about it, maybe even thought about going on it. So what is the Dukan Diet all about?
Who is it for?
The Dukan Diet is aimed at people wanting to lose more than 10lbs. As with any diet, you are recommended to seek advice from your GP before you start.
How does it work?
A high-protein, low-carb, low fat diet, Dukan is based on 100 natural foods, 78 protein rich foods and 28 vegetables. Followers are instructed to undertake a four-phase eating plan; in phases 1 and 2, you lose weight, then in phases 3 and 4 you learn to maintain it.
Phase 1: A brief ATTACK phase with immediate results - lasting from two to seven days whereby you can eat as many of the 100 protein foods as you like.
Phase 2: CRUISE phase that continues uninterrupted until your goal weight is reached. Pure protein days are alternated with protein and vegetable days with an average weight loss of 2lbs per week.
Phase 3: CONSOLIDATION phase lasting five days for every pound lost. This phase is designed to reintroduce dieters to the 'pleasure' of food whilst preventing the rebound effect that occurs after any rapid form of weight loss. You can start to introduce cheese, bread, fruits, starchy food and 'celebration' meals to your eating regime.
Phase 4: STABILISATION phase based on three simple principles to counteract any mild weight gain:
- Eat three tablespoons of oat bran per day. It aids digestion, helps give a feeling of satisfaction to combat hunger, reduces cholesterol and prevents diabetes commonly seen in overweight people
- Regular exercise (minimum 20 minutes walk per day)
- Have a pure protein attack day once a week
Is it hard to follow?
The Dukan Diet is relatively simple in that you can eat as much as you like from a list of allowed foods, reducing the risk of your diet failing through sheer hunger (a stumbling block for many dieters).
As well as simply eating according to Dukan guidelines, you are also advised to up your exercise levels to aid weight loss, increase energy levels and take your mind off the frustrations of dieting.
Exclusive 40% off your Dukan Diet weight loss plan at www.dukandiet.co.uk for Zest online readers
Promotional code is: zest40
Valid until: November 25, 2011
For more information on the diet or to create your free personal weight-loss plan please visit www.dukandiet.co.uk
Learn how to handle hunger
