The Abs Diet is a weight loss diet plan created by Men’s Health Magazine editor David Zinczenko. It incorporates both diet and exercise so that your body produces muscle which will burn fat faster resulting in quicker weight loss. The goal of The Abs Diet is to lose 12 pounds in 2 weeks with an emphasis on flattening the stomach.
Rather than eating less, The Abs Diet encourages you to eat more, incorporating 12 “Power Foods” into at least 6 small meals throughout the day. It also encourages a blend of cardio and strength to build muscle, which will accelerate fat burning.
The Power 12 Foods
1. Almonds and other nuts
2. Beans and other legumes
3. Spinach and other green vegetables
4. Dairy: fat-free or low-fat milk, yogurt, cheese, cottage cheese
5. Instant oatmeal: no-sugar added
6. Eggs
7. Turkey and other lean meats (steak, chicken, or fish)
8. Peanut Butter - all-natural, sugar-free.
9. Olive oil
10. Whole-grain breads and cereals
11. Extra-protein (whey) powder
12. Raspberries and other berries
Pros
Smaller, more frequent meals reduce hunger compared to other diets
1 “Free” meal per week to eat whatever you want
Cardio and strength training to build muscle, which burns fat quicker
Cons
Not everyone will lose fat from the abdominal region first (also known as spot reduction)
Conclusion
The Abs Diet is based on sound weight loss principles, including a sensible blend of diet and exercise. What sets it apart from other diets is the focus on strength training to accelerate results and a diet plan that is enjoyable and sustainable.
WeightWatchers is one of the most popular and successful diet plans, helping millions of people around the world lose weight with the support of small groups that meet weekly for weigh-ins, diet support, and tips.
The WeightWatchers program has evolved over the years, but the main idea is still to consume fewer calories than you expend. Most are familiar with the Weight Watchers POINTS system which is a simple method to track calorie consumption without tedious counting for each meal. The number of POINTS allowed each day is determined by your gender, weight, height, age and how you spend your days — and because low-fat, high-fiber foods have the fewest POINTS values, the system encourages such foods by default.
A recent addition to the WeightWatchers program is the no-counting Core Plan in which you select foods from a detailed list. You also have the option to skip the in-person meetings in favor of using an online program. In the Core Plan, you choose from a list of fiber-rich, low-cal foods, but can also go ‘off-list’ for occasional indulgences like dessert. Both plans essentially follow a low-calorie, high-fiber diet.
Pros
Established diet plan proven to be successful with millions of testimonials
Online diet support is now an option
Eating out is easy using either the POINTS system or the Core Plan
Cons
Online support groups may not be as motivational as in-person meetings
Conclusion
The WeightWatchers philosophy is a lifestyle change that will help you lose weight – and learn to keep it off for the rest of your life. The program is relatively simple and many dieters enjoy the support the classes offer, but the online program is also good.
eDiets is the largest online weight loss program, offering over 20 different diet plans specifically tailored to match any lifestyle and preference. Based on your health profile, eDiets can help you select the diet that will be most effective.
Here are just a few of the well-known diet plans offered:
Glycemic Impact Diet
Mediterranean Diet
Atkins Nutritional Approach
Bill Phillips’ Eating For Life
Type 2 Diabetes Diet
Heart Smart Diet (based off the AHA plan)
eDiets also offers diet plans specifically tailored to your preference or need:
Low Sugar
Low Sodium
High Fiber
Lactose Free
Low-Fat
Healthy Soy
Vegetarian
Cholesterol Lowering
With an intimidating number of diet plans offered, eDiets will help you select the best diet plan for you.
Pros
Offers customized weight loss and diet plans designed to suit each individual
Offers home delivered meals
Superb online support during every phase
Cons
Online support groups may not be as motivating as in-person meetings (such as WeightWatchers)
Conclusion
eDiets has built a strong brand based on the variety and effectiveness of diet plans offered. Combined with excellent online support through message boards and discussion forums and a low-cost monthly subscription, eDiets is a great choice.
Overview
Overview