The diets driving weight-loss this year...
What is it?
It may sound counterintuitive for a diet to revolve around high fat foods, but this plan from Zana Morris and Helen Foster is all about making the most of avocado, cheese, yoghurt, nuts – and even steak. Of course there’s always a sacrifice, and in this case, you’ll have to almost completely cut out carbs. The idea is that this encourages your body to burn fat rather than sugars found in the carbohydrate foods. You’ll also need to adopt an exercise routine: 12 minutes of high-intensity exercise per day.
How much can I lose?
6-8lbs, and 1-3 inches around your middle, in two weeks.
Pros
Even for the busiest people, it should be possible to squeeze in a short burst of intense exercise every day. Don’t expect those 12 minutes to be easy though!
Cons
Maintaining the weight loss means permanently adapting to a routine with limited starchy carbs, regular high-intensity workouts and protein with every meal.
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The Low FODMAP Diet Cookbook
What is it?This cookbook was specifically written for people suffering from the symptoms of IBS, Crohn's disease, celiac disease and other digestive disorders. It shows you how to avoid symptoms and spontaneous flare-ups whilst still enjoying great tasting meals.
How much can I lose?
It depends - if your diet is currently quite high in sugar and processed foods you will likely see a significant drop on the scales, while if you are a healthy eater you might not see much weight loss at all - but you will reap the benefits of a happier gut and less discomfort after eating.
Pros
Despite catering for sensitive tums with an aversion to many ingredients, this plan has a wide variety of crowd-pleasing options so the whole family can eat together.
Cons
The results take time. It can be up to 6 weeks before you notice a difference, but after that you should feel and look better.
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The Sunshine Diet
What is it?2012 Masterchef winner Shelina Permalloo lost 45lb in the making of this book, and has gathered together the healthy recipes that helped her get there. This is the enjoyable face of diet books - no scary regime, just fantastic, flavoursome food to help you get in shape. She recommends that you combine this with lots of walking, a more mindful approach to eating and a few meat-free meals a week.
How much can I lose?There are no weight-loss guarantees here, but if you adopt Permalloo's approach as well as stepping up your activity levels, you'll have a healthier (less fattening!) way of life that can work long-term - not just for a few months.
ProsThe recipes are inspired by cuisines from all over the world, and look delicious - from griddled sweet potatoes with mint, chilli and smoked garlic, to seafood gumbo.
ConsIf you're looking for a strict regime that will help you achieve dramatic weight loss in a hurry, this probably isn't it.
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The 2+1 Diet
What is it?Based on extensive nutrition research, the 2+1 diet is all about shifting the balance and putting plant-based foods first. It's not about giving up meat, fish and dairy products - it's about making plants the power player. You'll eat more super-nutritious vegetables and wholegrains, and less sugar, salt and fat.
How much can I lose?
Up to 10lb in two weeks - and more if you stick with it.
Pros
The fibre-rich plan will leave you full and improve your digestion, and the meals can be truly delicious and satisfying. Think tuna nicoise salad, or a pork and bean casserole served with celeriac and apple slaw.
Cons
If you're used to making meat the star attraction, you may worry that this plan will feel like a sacrifice. But remember you can still have a healthy portion of meat, fish or cheese on your plate - it's just about balancing this with more veggies, grains, pulses and nuts.
Find out more about the 2+1 Diet
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Le Bootcamp Diet
What is it?
This French diet plan was devised by lifestyle coach Valerie Orsoni. Split into 4 stages - Detox, Attack, Booster and Maintenance - the plan is easy to digest and comes complete with an achievable exercise regime, which includes simple activities such as walking for 30 minutes every day.
Packed with 90 appetising and versatile recipes, this diet pays just as much attention to long-term maintenance as it does to the initial weight-loss element. No foods are forbidden and you can even enjoy a glass of wine from stage two.
How much can I lose?
Up to 15 lbs in a month. (On average 92% of people that tried the diet lost 26 lbs overall and kept it off after 6 months.)
Pros
There are no restricted food groups, and there are endless online tools and groups that can help you stay on track. This plan has a strong following and a high success rate.
Cons
You will need a juicer, pedometer and some walking shoes before you can even get started.
Find out more about Le Bootcamp Diet
