Diet & Fitness 

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Diets A-Z: The Pritikin diet

the theory: The benefits of this very low-fat, primarilyvegetarian, diet based on whole grains, fruits and vegetables include improvedcardiovascular health and weight loss.

hunger
health
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ratings key andcredits

the plan
The Pritikin diet was developed as a means to treat heart disease, and weight loss happens to be an additional benefit. Processed foods such as pasta and white bread, animal proteins, eggs and most types of fats are eliminated and replaced with whole grains, fruits and vegetables. The revised Pritikin diet encourages the use of 'healthy' fats high in omega-3 fatty acids in limited amounts.

upside
No one will argue with the health benefits of eating less fat and more fruits, vegetables and whole grains. There is no calorie counting and portions are not controlled.

downside
Diets extremely low in fat are often unsatisfying, causing some people to overeat, and it can be tough to give up animal products and dairy. Plus, this diet can be low in essential vitamins and minerals.

duration
Indefinite.

tips
Chat about it on the You can do it message board.

checklist
Restaurants: Only if they serve vegetarian foods.
Alcohol: No.
Caffeine: No.
Need to buy special foods: Yes, especially low-fat and vegetarian foods.
Family friendly: May need to supplement children's foods.
OK for vegetarians: Definitely.

the pros say
If you have heart disease or a strong family history of heart disease, this diet is one of the best steps toward prevention you can take.

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