the theory: The Radiant Health diet is a low-carbohydrate, high-protein eating plan that severely restricts staples such as pasta, bread and potatoes but allows unrestricted amounts of protein-rich foods such as meats, cheeses and eggs.

hunger
health
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ratings key and credits

the plan This diet works on the principle that the more carbs you eat the more you’ll want, and too many carbs will sabotage your chances of permanent weight loss. The plan initially treats nutritional deficiencies that cause these cravings and slowly gets you used to eating less carbohydrates. The result is that you store less fat and burn the fat you do have more easily. Carbohydrates are limited to under 70g a day and fruits and vegetables are kept to small portions. You are encouraged to make meats, eggs and cheese the mainstays of your diet. In addition, you need a daily supplement containing essential fatty acids, multiple minerals, essiac and cat’s claw to treat deficiencies and detoxify the body.

upside

• Some people enjoy eating lots of meat, eggs and cheese which are usually restricted in traditional low-fat diet plans.
• Often people do notice a drop in their cravings for carbs when they eat a high-protein, high-fat diet, and there are plenty of recipes in this plan to choose from.
• Many people are put off by high-fibre diets because they involve eating lots of fruit and vegetables.
• This diet claims you’ll have more energy, less bloating, reduced water retention and improved bowel function within two to three weeks and you will achieve permanent weight loss.

downside

• Cutting down on fruit and veg means you’re missing out on important antioxidant nutrients such as vitamin C and other phytochemicals. Too much fat can also lead to heart problems.
• Restricting carbohydrates means the body has to rely primarily on protein (muscle) and fat for its energy reserves. When fat and protein are metabolised, by-products called ketones are produced which can be dangerous for people with diabetes, kidney problems and other medical conditions.
• There is an enormous amount of cooking involved and you’re likely to need to cook at least two meals a day.
• Because protein-rich sources are the mainstay of the diet, this plan will be expensive to follow. You also need to buy either the Radiant Health Basic Essence EFA supplement or make up your own cocktail containing EFA, multiple minerals, and supplements essaic and cat’s claw.

duration
Two to three weeks.

tips
You will need to buy the book to follow the menu plans and buy the Radiant Health Basic Essence EFA supplement.

checklist
Restaurants: You’ll need to limit pasta, potatoes, bread, rice, fruit and vegetables.
Alcohol In moderation.
OK for vegetarians: No.
Family friendly: Could be difficult if you have children who enjoy eating bread, potatoes and pasta.
Need to buy special foods: No, but you’ll need to buy supplements.
Caffeine: Tea and coffee allowed.

the pros says
It’s difficult to eat large amounts of foods on a high-protein, low-carbohydrate diet and this is why you may lose weight initially. Permanent weight loss will be difficult to sustain.