The theory
One of the original diets launched in the '70s, this plan claims you can lose up to one pound per day following a low-carbohydrate and low-fat diet, rather than controlling your portions or counting calories.

The plan
A seven-to-fourteen day plan that clearly outlines the types of foods to be consumed at three meals each day. Snacking is not allowed, and herbal appetite suppressants are encouraged. Meals consist of fruit, vegetables, and lean sources of protein in unlimited amounts.

Pros

• You don't have to count calories or fat grams, and there is no limit on portion sizes. Weight loss often occurs rapidly, and you won't be too hungry.

Cons

• A strict meal plan must be followed exactly which is unacceptably low in carbohydrate and many vitamins and minerals. It is a very rigid programme which plays to those with boderline eating disorder problems.
• Herbal appetite suppressants are often encouraged which can be dangerous for people with heart disease or high blood pressure or when used in large amounts or in conjunction with other stimulants such as caffeine.

Duration
Seven to fourteen days.

Dhecklist
Restaurants: Possible if you know they have the exact foods you need for a specific meal.
Alcohol: No.
Caffeine: Limited quantities.
Need to buy special foods: No.
OK for vegetarians: No, there is an emphasis on animal protein.

The pros say
The Scarsdale diet, like other low-carbohydrate high-protein plans, eliminates foods that are high in fibre and many nutrients in favour of quick weight loss. At 1,000 calories per day it is way too low in calories ? in the '70s it was common to take this approach, but it was never very successful and has been discredited. It is now more common to diet on about 1,8000-2,000 calories daily (for women). Such a low calorie count is neither healthy nor sustainable. If you lose anything like the amount suggested it won't be fat weight, but water and carbohydrate stores and you will put it back on as quickly as you lost it (if not sooner).