Overview
Dr. Moreno’s (Dr. Mike’s) 17 Day Diet is a cycled eating plan that alters the amounts of carbohydrates, proteins and fats you eat every few days. Divided across four phases, each is designed to accomplish a different objective: burning fat, resetting the metabolism and teaching you proper portion control and hunger signs.
This clean eating plan avoids sugar, processed foods, fried foods and other heavy dishes and teaches your body to nourish itself through eating healthy food like turkey and asparagus spears and other cleansing vegetables.
The Diet also shares tips to avoid holiday weight gain: It encourages you to pre-diet, which means to eat a healthy dinner before you attend holiday parties or other festive occasions that are food-focused. And when you’re at the party, choose only two to three of the healthiest appetizers. You’re also encouraged to stay away from the buffet table and say no to festive desserts and candy.
The 17 Day Diet does not mean you can lose all the weight you want to lose in 17 days! (Don’t I wish!) The reason it’s called the 17 Day Diet is it was initially created to help keep people from gaining weight through the holidays. It was later developed into four, 17 day Cycles, structured to cause “metabolic confusion” by adjusting food intake and habits at regular intervals. The idea is that the body will burn more abdominal fat by varying calories consumed.
This is not a fad diet. Although it does promote quick weight loss at first it’s based on lean proteins, vegetables, fruit and eventually whole grains.
Here are the four Cycles:
Accelerate: This promotes fast weight loss by eating low carbohydrates and “cleansing” the body
Activate: This is a metabolism boosting cycle where the metabolism is “re-set”
Achieve: “Good” carbohydrates are introduced into the body
Arrive: A lifestyle eating plan that combines the first 3 Cycles
On the First Cycle you can eat all you want of the following proteins, they’re referred to as “FREEBIES”: Salmon – canned or fresh, Sole, Flounder, Catfish, Tilapia, Canned Light Tuna, Chicken Breast and Turkey Breast (boneless, skinless of course), Lean Ground Turkey, Eggs (No more than 4 a week or 2 per day), Egg Whites are unlimited.
You get 2 servings a day of a probiotic choice: Either 6 oz of Sugar-free yogurt, 1 Cup of Kefir, 1/2 Cup Breakstone LiveActive cottage cheese or 1 Cup of Low-fat Acidophilus Milk. (Basically the acidophilus milk is just low-fat milk with probiotics added to it the same with the cottage cheese).
No other dairy except fat free cheese, fat free sour cream as condiments and in moderation (see below).
Vegetables are limited to “Cleansing Vegetables” but are also “FREEBIES” and can be eaten anytime: Artichoke and Artichoke Hearts, Asparagus, Bell Peppers (all colors), Broccoli, Brussels Sprouts, Cabbage, Carrots, Cauliflower, Celery, Cucumbers, Eggplant, Garlic, Green Beans, Kale, Leeks, Lettuce (all varieties), Mushrooms, Okra, Onions, Parsley, Scallions, Spinach, Tomatoes, Watercress.
Fruit, two servings daily before 2:00 PM of Apples, Berries-all types, Grapepfruit, Oranges, Peaches, Pears, Plums, Prunes, Red Grapes, Prickly Pear Cactus, Lemons.
Condiments allowed in moderation are: : Salsa, Low-carb marinara, Lite Soy Sauce, Low-Carb Ketchup, Fat Free Sour Cream, Low-Fat Low-Salt Broth, Truvia, Sugar Free Jams/Jellies, Vegetable Cooking Spray, Fat Free Cheeses, Fat Free Salad Dressing, Salt, Pepper, Vinegar, Mustards, Herbs and Spices.
Remember these are allowed in ”moderation”. In this Cycle you can eat as much as you want of specific proteins and cleansing vegetables. You don’t have to count anything except 2 daily fruit servings, 2 probiotic servings and your fat serving (1 to 2 tbls of friendly fat – Olive Oil or Flaxseed Oil - to use on salad, vegetables or for cooking)
You start everyday with one 8 ounce cup of hot water mixed with half a lemon. You can count this as one of your 8, 8 ounce glasses of water a day.
On Cycle 2 you can add Additional Proteins – Shellfish and Lean Cuts of Meat
Natural Starches: (1 serving = 1/2 cup) – Brown Rice, Bulgur, Barley, Couscous, Cream of Wheat, Grits, Basmati Rice, Oatmeal
Legumes (1 serving = 1/2 cup) – Black Beans, Butter Beans, Garbanzo, Northern, Kidney, Lima, Navy, Pinto and Soy Beans, Lentils, Peas
Starchy Veggies – Breadfruit, Corn, Potatoes, Sweet Potatoes, Winter Squashes, Yams
Add two daily servings of natural carbohydrates (not to be eaten after 2:00 PM) … everything else stays the same
Some of the meal plans look like this:
Cycle 1:
- (Protein) scrambled egg whites with apple and green tea
- large green salad with tuna and balsamic vinegar and olive oil, with green tea
- grilled chicken with steamed or raw vegetables, with green tea
Cycle 2:
- (Protein), fresh peach, and green tea
- chicken salad, brown rice, sugar-free fruit-flavored yogurt, green tea
- grilled salmon with steamed vegetables, green tea
Cycle 3:
- whole wheat toast, hard-boiled egg, apple, green tea
- grilled chicken Caesar salad, whole wheat toast, fresh fruit, green tea
- roasted pork tenderloin, mixed salad, green tea
Cycle 4:
- scrambled eggs, sliced peaches, green tea
- grilled salmon on lettuce bed, green tea
- rib eye steak, Caesar salad, baked sweet potato, two glasses red wine
EXERCISE
Dr. Moreno gives you a 17-minute exercise that you can do every day to reshape your body OR asks that you walk at least 17 minutes a day. (Anyone can do 17 minutes, right) More is better of course but 17 minutes is minimum!
CONCLUSION
The 17 Day Diet is a weight loss plan that is designed to help you take off weight quickly and effectively. The cycled eating plan features four distinct phases that are intended to burn fat, re-teach you how to eat and most importantly, reset your metabolism so that it works efficiently and smartly.
NEWBIE TIPS YOU WILL NOT FIND IN THE BOOK BUT ARE IMPORTANT TO FOLLOW:
NEWBIE TIPS: First make sure the yogurt you use has 9 grams or less of sugar per serving. It may contain fruit (doesn’t count for your fruit for the day) BUT if you get plain yogurt – to use in place of sour cream or to add your own fruit or sugar free jelly or jam, then get non fat Greek style. IF you add your own fruit then it DOES count for your fruit for the day.
Also, if you use the menus in the book they are too low in calories if used alone. You must supplement them with foods off the freebies list. You can have as much as you want, any time you want from the lists on your cycle. You should NEVER be hungry. If you are – EAT just make sure you’re eating something that’s allowed on your cycle. Remember the food on the protein and veggie lists can be eaten at any time, in any amounts!
Make sure to take a multivitamin as suggested in the book. This is EXTREMELY IMPORTANT. Green Tea can deplete you of iron. If you have any problems with iron you should not drink the tea….and you should not drink it during “that time” of the month, but if you do, be cautious. If you begin to feel lethargic then stop drinking it, wait a few days and see if you feel better. Often the Green Tea is depleting people of iron and causing them to have very low energy. But definitetly take the multivitamin.
Supplement the menus by at least 200-400 calories a day. As long as you are eating the foods allowed on your cycle you’re okay. Remember you can eat the protein and veggies in your cycle any time in any amount! The menus can get very boring, very fast. In fact I don’t recommend them. It’s best to create your own menus using the food lists and the cookbooks. This way your meals are interesting and delicious. People who just follow the menus in the book don’t seem to do as well on the diet because they get bored too fast.
Have something prepared you can eat anytime in any amounts. This is important. The soup recipe in the book is one idea or I keep ground turkey, cooked at all times in my fridge. I cook it in garlic powder, onion powder, soy sauce, pepper, red bell pepper and onion…and brown it very well. I keep this mixture and a head of cabbage and lettuce, cleaned and ready to go, in the fridge all the time!! This way if I’m hungry I get out the meat, cabbage, shredded nf cheese, salsa, nf plain Greek yogurt and onion and can make a wrap or turkey taco in a minute that you can eat 24/7. It’s always the first thing I go for when I’m hungry or want a late night snack!
Eat fruit 8 hours before bed whenever that it. I don’t go to bed until 2:00AM so I can eat fruit until about 6:00 PM. It does not have to do with 2:00 PM it has to do with not eating fruit 8 hours before bed. He only said 2:00 PM because he assumed people go to bed at 10:00 PM. Well, not at this house! LOL
I was a participant on the diet on The Doctors Show. You can read more about me under “About Me” on the blog! I’m glad you’re here…you will be successful if you stick with it!
I promise! Please feel free to contact me at: tksinclair@cox.net with “17 Day Diet” in the Subject if you have any questions or click on the “scales with feet” to take you to our Facebook site where questions are answered frequently and more recipes posted.
Dec 24, 2010 @ 14:26:22
All I can say is WOOHOO! Began on 12/13 and as of 12/24, am down 8.4 pounds. My husband is partially doing it, but not to the letter and he has seen a loss also. We were both on WW and hit a plateau, so thought we’d try this and I’ve never seen this kind of weight loss in this period of time in my life and I’m in my 50′s. I do miss the bread, but honestly, if I eat everything I am supposed to, I am not hungry. We’ve been making the recipes and the BBQ chicken is very good, as is the eggplant along with the spanish omelette. We’re leaving on vacation soon and taking the scale as we usually do. Hey, sounds weird, but we’ve both lost a lot of weight and don’t want to gain it back. Good luck to everyone and stick with it – it does work!
Dec 24, 2010 @ 14:45:57
Terri, had a little time on Christmas Eve and read a little bit about you. Thank you for your honesty and I love the way you write. I read you use Splenda which is something I used to use. Hubby and I know a great personal trainer that referred us to using Stevia/Truvia and we love it. We have used it for many years and yes, I even travel with my little packets.
Dec 26, 2010 @ 00:19:39
I started the diet on Dec. 12 and by Dec. 21I was down 12.4 pounds. I feel great, and have more energy. I can’t believe now easy it is, and I usually have no will power. Today is Christmas and I are am still down even after eating dinner and a having Tequila last night. I will be right back on track tomorrow. I leap out of bed in the morning’s to jump on the scale!
Dec 26, 2010 @ 07:05:53
I have not recieved my book yet but am looking forward to starting . i have tried everything hope this works
Dec 26, 2010 @ 17:42:40
I have been reading your blog for 2-3 weeks now. I’m so inspired by your words. I finally received my book on Satuday, the week before Christmas. I read the book and started that day. I have to say that it hasn’t been too difficult for me to give up the sugar, breads and soda. I’m eating a whole lot more vegetables and fruits now too. As of this morning, I am down 9 lbs. I have had a weak moment or two this weekend, but I was in control the whole time. I’ve tried the Chicken vegetable soup and really like it. I even made more and put it in the freezer for a quick lunch or dinner. This 1st 17 days is working well for me and I’m a little concerned about moving on to the second 17 days. I’ve read that it’s not recommended that anyone extend the 1st phase past the 17 days. If I feel I need to repeat the 1st phase, do you think it would be okay to do so after completing the 2nd phase? I have a lot of weight to lose and I want to do it safely.
Dec 27, 2010 @ 06:37:13
I’m waiting for my book…. I tried pounds and inches away…. I had successful weight loss but I eventually gained most of it back and didn’t want to put my body through such a stressful regime again. I am looking forward to starting this diet to kick off the new year right.
Dec 28, 2010 @ 10:03:00
can you have diet soda
Dec 29, 2010 @ 09:22:16
I finished the 1st part of the book this morning and just got back from grocery shopping. I am starting in the morning although I did have the water with lemon this morning, green tea, eggs and grapefruit for breakfast. I am very excited. I am looking for people to share this journey with, both to get support and to give support. I am hoping this website will be that support! Looking forward to all the success stories to come!
Dec 30, 2010 @ 10:23:58
I have not ordered the book.The ones that got it free are so lucky.It is very pricey,so dont think I can afford it right now.Is there a way to get the diet on the internet at all.Maybe just the ingredience,if not the meal plan
Dec 30, 2010 @ 11:44:42
I am currently reading the book, and really liking what it has to say. I am hopeful that this is “the plan” that will easily become a lifestyle of healthy eating and exercise. I would love to lose 30 pounds and never have to worry about it coming back! So tired of this issue! Looking forward to this journey process and support. I have two girlfriends starting this with me on Jan. 3rd. Any advice for beginners?
Dec 30, 2010 @ 13:07:45
Eleanor, I don’t know that anyone here got the book for free and I do understand it’s expensive. I write on another site, Weightloss HQ, where you might find some additional information and on this site there is an OVERVIEW of the diet but we can’t reprint exactly what’s in the book. That would be plagerizing which is illegal! It’s not “my” diet therefore only Dr. Moreno would be able to reprint the actual diet. Sorry. But there are example menus here and on the site I’m writing for: http://www.weightloss-hq.biz/weight-loss-reviews/17-day-diet.html
If you follow every day of the journal on Weightloss HQ I write about the actual menu planning on Day 4 I think.
Jan 02, 2011 @ 05:16:25
Got my book, got my exercise DVD, & I’m on Day 4 of my diet. I’ll update everyone on weight loss on Tuesday, that’ll be Day the 7th day of my diet, so a full week of it.
Jan 02, 2011 @ 08:24:40
That was my question as well…..
Jan 02, 2011 @ 12:07:15
Hello everyone! I’m so glad to find this blog. I’m on day 7 and am very excited. I’ve been overweight since I had my first child, 13 years ago. It’s been a hard 13 years. I’ve taken myself out of family memories by refusing to take pictures, I don’t go to so many places due to fear of running into somone I knew from high school– I’m just a different person. I would love another chance… So… I’m a huge Dr. Phil fan and saw a small clip of “The 17 Day Diet” on his show and ordered the book. I decided to start right after Christmas. I feel like I’m off to a good start. A few days ago I survived an Olive Garden luncheon with my Bunko friends. That’s quite an accomplishment! I had a plan before I left and ate some of the vegetable soup… ordered the Venetian apricot grilled chicken (sauce on the side; which I discarded — but it was THERE in case I needed it) with steamed brocolli. I didn’t take one bite of a breadstick. Now that is control for me! I look forward to sharing your journey and I’m excited for us all.
Jan 02, 2011 @ 12:45:01
I’ve not yet received the book, but I already have a question. What kind of green tea is everyone drinking? All the green tea I’ve ever had has been terrible and I’m not so sure about drinking it several times a day. I’d like to start with SOMETHING before I get the book and the menu suggestions above will be helpful in doing that, I’m sure. I’m from and live in the deep South. We love our sweet tea, and tea “ain’t” green. Suggestions on that?! THANK YOU!
Jan 02, 2011 @ 14:36:09
My husband and I are starting the diet tomorrow, as I have read the book enough into it to start and now that I have found this support, I feel much more motivated. Thanks to all. Good luck. I am a “professional dieter”, I have done them all, even the hcg and I already believe that this one is different because it is a livable thing to do, I will be very happy to provide support to anyone at anytime.
Jan 02, 2011 @ 16:53:51
Hello!
Started this program today…. and so far so good….although I always need to be by a bathroom!:) Wondering if skim milk is allowed, as I would like to make a “smoothie” with strawberries and skim milk and ice with my Living Well blender…. My biggest problem is at night…while watching tv…. I intend to have my last snack (yogurt) at about 9… and I think that might work for me.
Good luck to all!
Jan 02, 2011 @ 17:00:47
How bout using the yogurt instead of the milk? That way you’re getting the probiotics! I admit I eat an apple at night (breaking the “after 2pm rule) and I have to have a snack at night! It’s still worked although maybe my weight loss would be greater if I did it by the book. In fact tomorrow’s post I was going to declare a BY THE BOOK DAY..where everyone sticks to the diet EXACTLY as Dr. Moreno says!!!
Jan 03, 2011 @ 01:07:02
I am still awaiting my book…it got stuck on the other side of the state due to some bad weather we had this last weekend!! We live in a town where it is impossible to find groceries at the grocery store and if we do it is super expensive!!! You are all a great motivation for me and I really can’t wait to get started! I have about 45 pounds to lose to be back into a healthy weight for my body.
Jan 02, 2011 @ 17:18:41
Hi Susan – I don’t have my book yet either but went to the store today and stocked up on fruits,veggies and green tea. I’m not a fan of it either. I bought some tea bags and also some Diet Turkey Hill Green Tea in the fridge section. It’s actually not bad. I’ll let you know about the tea bags.
I’m 5.3″ and need to lose about 40 pounds! Let’s hope this works.
–Pennie
Jan 02, 2011 @ 18:11:00
I received the book just before Christmas. I have read the book, cover to cover, and have researched online. I am both happy and relieved that I found this blog as I need the support, encouragement and determination to stick to this plan. I am not extremely overweight but am a very poor eater and always make unhealthy choices. I want to feel better, have more energy, and lose some weight along with the other benefits. My biggest problem is that I HATE fish and am worried that I will get bored, quickly, within the first 17 days eating turkey and chicken! I am starting on Tuesday, January 3rd so I have plenty of time to write my menus and grocery shop. I appreciate any meal suggestions anyone has to offer. Thanks!
Jan 02, 2011 @ 18:33:23
Susan, I don’t like the taste of Green Tea, either. My friend told me about Fruit Flavored Green Teas. I’m drinking Nature’s Promise Organic Blueberry Flavored Green Tea. It’s very tolerable, and also comes in other flavors as well, and no calories. I’m guessing, since it’s all “organic natural flavors,” it’s OK on this plan? Good luck!
Jan 03, 2011 @ 04:13:56
I am starting the diet tomorrow and really looking forward to it. I also need a lot of encouragement and am glad I found your blog. I have about 80 pounds to lose. I have no energy and feel tierd all the time. So my hope is to get my life back and feel good about myself again.
Jan 02, 2011 @ 20:14:34
I mix mine up…a green tea bag and a lipton tea bag! Also I noticed in our stores they have all kinds of green tea “flavors” now. The berry with pomegranite looked pretty good!
Jan 03, 2011 @ 08:44:09
My husband is 75 pounds over weight and is having problems with his back and legs. I feel if he lost weight he’d rid himself of unnecessasary pain.
Jan 03, 2011 @ 08:48:53
My husband suffers from back and leg pain and I feel like if he could lose seventy five pounds, he would rid himself of unnessary pain.
Jan 03, 2011 @ 13:33:53
Thanks.. thats a great idea about using the yogurt…I went “by the book” yesterday.. but then again, it was my first day…. Never thought of drinking “cold tea” ahahah I assumed it was hot tea… but hmmm iced tea (made fresh with lemon and truvia would work for me too.
Jan 03, 2011 @ 18:11:53
Susan, I think this is ok to use: DIET Arizona Green Tea with Gingsing…I don’t like it cold, but heat it up in the microwave and the taste changes to delish! Give it a try. We just started this Jan 1 and my husband and I have both lost 4 # each! We are sticking to the diet to the letter and it’s really not hard so far! Not hungry either! Good luck!
Jan 03, 2011 @ 18:37:15
Hello,
I’m very much interested in this diet. Where can I get this book (program) and how much does it cost? I’d appreciate an immediate reply.
Mildred Campbell
Jan 03, 2011 @ 18:45:31
Hi Mildred! Here’s the link to the book:
http://www.the17daydiet.com/
At the top of the “home” page there is a tab for OVERVIEW OF THE 17 Day Diet and that should help you get started while waiting for the book! Good luck!
Terri
Jan 04, 2011 @ 04:36:59
I love this tea and at night i am starting to have a large mug of it with a reg green tea bag. the tea tastes more like a juice i would think most green tea haters would really like it. just get past the first sip and it will be delicious.
Jan 04, 2011 @ 12:33:02
To those of you who don’t like fish…..
One of the secrets of removing the “fishy taste” from fish is to soak it in milk for a bit…. but if you REALLY want to taste a delicious fish (and I was never a fish eater) is to soak the fish in coffee creamer…. yes I know that is not on the program…. but if it allows me to eat salmon, flounder, etc. 3-4 times a week…. so be it…. I prefer the Hazelnut flavor.. maybe because it has a hint of sweetness to it… Bake at 375 for 8-12 minutes… serve with fresh steamed veggies and a side salad… fit for a King or Queen!
Jan 04, 2011 @ 13:21:13
I have never heard of this Gale! I have tried to eat fish but other than Halibut I just can’t do it! (Although I DO like sushi – no fish taste). I am going to try this! Fortunately my 13 year old LOVES fish so anything I’ve prepared in the past and couldn’t eat he gobbles up! I’m thinking he may be out of luck this time. What a great tip! Thanks!
Jan 05, 2011 @ 18:20:55
Hi Everyone! I’m so glad I found this site! I am a 38 year old mother of two young boys. I work two jobs (one overnights). I was really skinny most of my life. Ate whatever I wanted and never weighed over 100 pounds (I’m 5’2″) before college. During college I started taking medications and really packed on the pounds! My highest weight was 230#! I lost about 25 pounds (with Weight Watchers) before getting pregnant with my first son (now almost 8 ears old). 6 weeks after he was born I got back on Weight Watchers and got down to 133 pounds! I was 8 pounds from my goal. Then I started trying to get pregnant with my second son and began to gain again (I might be pregnant and baby needs a Big Mac!!). I gained 30 pounds before I even became pregnant! Since then (5 years ago) I have never lost more than 8 pounds on any diet; and haven’t kept any off.
I started the 17 Day Diet 8 days ago at 152 pounds. I lost 5.5 pounds in the first 4 days! In the second 4 days I have been slowly gaining! I don’t understand why. I think I am following the plan well. I am having more caffeine than I should most days (C’mon I work NIGHTS!!); but I am drinking more than the amount of plain water than I am supposed to most days. Two days I had a fruit serving after 2pm (around 4) and 1 day I ate 3 small tortilla chips. Otherwise I have done everything to a T, I think! Could I be missing something? Here is my average day:
Wake Up: Water with lemon, 2 fish oil capsules, a multivitamin, and a B complex vitamin
Breakfast: Hard boiled egg, Kefir smoothie, coffee
Snack: Fruit
Lunch: Protein (chicken, or fish) and roasted veggies with a little olive oil
Snack: raw veggies
Dinner: Protein (chicken or fish) and roasted veggies with a little olive oil
Snack: yogurt (Usually Yoplait Light)
I have 32oz of water between breakfast and lunch, then allow myself a diet soda. Then, 32 ounces of water between lunch and bedtime. Sometimes I may have another cup of coffee sometime during the day. If I finish all my water well before bedtime, I will allow myself more diet soda.
Exercise has not happened. I have VERY physical jobs. I am on my feet all day (except for one 30 minute break per shift) and am often doing a lot of heavy lifting. I realize I should still do “real” exercise; but I just haven’t managed to get it in yet. I do, also, play on the Wii with the boys every few days though.
Jan 06, 2011 @ 18:34:27
I started the 17 Day Diet on January 3 and as of today I have lost 3.5 lbs. I am really glad I found your blog because I have a few questions about what you can and can’t have. I also had headaches for the first 2 days, because I quit the coffee and only drink decaf green tea, but now they are gone. Looking for more suggestions on diet menus and snack ideas.
Jan 08, 2011 @ 21:17:01
Received my book on Friday, did the grocery shopping today and starting tomorrow. I have a couple of questions. I already had Activia Light Yogurt at home is that OK to use?
If you can’t have fruit after 2:00 PM what do you do about your before work out energy? I go to Encino Curves and they have a bootcamp work out that is pretty intense but it starts @ 7:00 PM and I don’t have dinner until afterwards because I go straight from work. If I don’t have something before the work out I feel light headed. I ususally have an apple or a luna bar.
Jan 09, 2011 @ 08:53:44
What is the lemon mixture you are supposed to drink? I am waiting on the book. Thanks for sharing.
Jan 09, 2011 @ 08:57:20
By brother in law drinks Lipton Diet Green Tea. He had heard it was good for you but could NOT find one that suited his taste. Now he buys it by the case at Sam’s he likes it so much. Have you tried this?
Jan 09, 2011 @ 16:14:30
Hello Tina, I am so glad to hear of ur weight loss, I am waiting for my book but I am curious on how u are doing? would u please email me and tell me how this has worked for u! Thank u in advance Veronica
Jan 10, 2011 @ 04:38:47
dont get discouraged you are eating healthy! Cut out the diet pop though. drink unsweetened iced tea with lemon! THINK ABOUT DIET POP. ALL CHEMICALS. I used to drink 3-4 cans a day. Keep up the diet! it makes sense. Good luck
Jan 10, 2011 @ 11:28:56
My headache day was day 3, but drinking lots of fluids helped and I feel great now. Down 10 lbs!! You can SOOOO do this!! Linda.RN
Jan 10, 2011 @ 13:54:08
Love the berry/pomegranite for iced tea!
Jan 11, 2011 @ 18:31:31
i am also so tired of this issue..just got the book and am gonna really try..but I am notorious for cheating. So, I am gonna try really hard. E-mail me if you want. It would be nice to have an on=line buddy. I hesitate to tell my friends because I have failed so many times in the past. I need to lose at least 50#s.
Jan 11, 2011 @ 19:04:10
It make take you a few days to “warm up” and it’s like I said in the previous post, you don’t have to be perfect ALL of the time, just MOST of the time! We’re here for you and there are many here who have 50 or more pounds to lose. Not everyone comments but almost 2,000 people a day visit this site! Try to take each day at a time and remember, we’re always here. Sugar free gum is great too. We’re partial around here to the Key Lime Pie (that’s my favorite) and the Strawberry Shortcake. They same company makes Chocolate Mint too. Also Patty, the photos are a great tool on those “weak” days. Trust me we’ve all “cheated” before or we wouldn’t be here. In fact I don’t think there’s more than a couple of people here who have never been on a diet before which makes us all “cheaters!” Now we want to be “Losers” not “Cheaters.” (Why doesn’t that sound right?) We’re all experts here because of the experiences we’ve had but the support here is really amazing and I do hope that helps you. I know it’s helped me!
Jan 11, 2011 @ 21:59:39
I want to buy the book, but have a question. I hate all forms of milk and yogurt. Is there a substitute or can I just skip that?
Jan 11, 2011 @ 23:38:52
Hi Kari, I answered you on the other board – but in case you come here first, no milk is even allowed on the first cycle. Yogurt is allowed because it has probiotics in it but you can take a probiotic supplement if you’d prefer. Just make sure you get enough protein or you might not get enough calories in the day. Do you like cottage cheese? If not I’d just skip the dairy and eat protein and take the probiotic supplement. Sauerkraut is also a probiotic but not many people seem to want that – personally I LOVE it and cook it with vegetarian sausage and think it’s delicious but probably not for everybody. Let me know if you have any more questions and others here might have even more suggestions for replacing the yogurt! Wishing you great success! (I learned that from Lori who is a member here!)
Jan 11, 2011 @ 23:40:52
Hi Veronica, I’m sorry but did you want me to email you? I don’t see the name “Tina” here and suddenly it occurred to me that you were talking to ME!
If so I will definitely email you! Sorry for the delay. Feel free to email me anytime…. tksinclair@cox.net
Jan 14, 2011 @ 03:29:35
Did you try it, Terri? How was it?
Jan 15, 2011 @ 06:54:33
I am on day 8 and I absolutely LOVE IT!! Thank you for something that is helping me… I would LOVE some more recipes. These are great in the book, but I need some more ideas. I have lost 4.4 lbs so far. I am 39 with 6 children. Have always been on top of my weight, but want to lose some and be in better shape. I am 5 2″ and need to lose 10lbs. according to the book more I need to lose 20, can’t imagine myself 110 lbs again. I weigh 130 lbs. I have a serious sweet tooth it seems to be fading some especially with the flavored green teas. Still think about candy though.. Haven’t eaten anywhere, but home afraid of how hard it will be when need to stop out to eat for the kids or at someone’s house. Any comments would be great.
Jan 15, 2011 @ 10:07:21
I went to Walgreens today and took a free blood pressure test today. Unbelieveable results. 107/72 I am on day 12 and feel great. I have lost 8#’s so far. I am 60 years old and have had high blood pressure my whole adult life due to obesity. This is remarkable. My doctor will be amazed. Thanks to the 17 day diet.
Jan 15, 2011 @ 11:50:33
That’s wonderful news! You should be so proud of yourself!!! That’s just the best news ever Steve! I too have high blood pressure (as does my mom and sister) and my sister was actually in the ER last week because hers soared so high (I’ve had similar experiences)
Jan 16, 2011 @ 09:37:10
Poochie63 mentions Diet Turkey Hill Green Tea and since it does contain honey I am curious to know if it is acceptable. Here is a link to see more about this product: http://www.turkeyhill.com/products/iced-tea-flavors.aspx?pID=205
Please let me know your opinion. Thanks so much.
Jan 16, 2011 @ 15:38:24
I gotta agree – the sugar free gum you speak of is helping me through this. I’m a sugar addict, and I’m doing it! I just got my book last week, I’m only on the 4th day and I’ve lost 5lbs!! Thank you so much for your site Terri, it helps tremendously!!
Jan 16, 2011 @ 16:02:45
I don’t understand how it has honey but no calories or carbs but that’s what it says! I agree that if the label is right then it should be okay to use. I’m not sure I understand it although it does say a “hint” of honey..BUT watch the Ginseng. That’s an “upper” and too much may not be a good thing!
Jan 16, 2011 @ 16:07:38
Your diet looks sound…could it be that time of the month? Either the middle of your cycle or the end? Either will cause weight fluxuations. Write down everything you eat for a week. EVERYTHING…every little mouth full and let’s go over it at the end of the week. You can email me at: tksinclair@cox.net
I am betting that you will lose again soon. But for now let’s do an eating journal. Also people who measured are finding they are losing inches even when the scale stays the same! Their clothes are fitting differently. We’ll get to the bottom of it. Stay on the program and we’ll figure it out…and if this doesn’t work for you for whatever reason I will be happy to help you find a program that does and you can still hang out with us, right???
Jan 16, 2011 @ 17:39:09
Buy Truvia ..(healthy ,not artificial or sugar)..and try squeezing abit of lemon, lime or orange in your green tea..Just slug it down, or make a pitcher of cold green tea (sith the truvia sweetner) and fresh mint leaves..sip it through a straw, crushed ice also may help…Green tea is not only a “fat burner” it is also very very good for you..anti-inflammatory (which accelerates aging)..So sip away and enjoy !!
Jan 17, 2011 @ 09:04:59
I would think this would be considered “in moderation” but I can’t have my coffee without creamer of some sort.
I’ve tried “coffee creamer” but it’s a bit pricey.
I won’t buy those flavored things because they are made of corn syrup.
I’ve tried almond milk but it just doesn’t cream it up enough.
So, I went back to half & half. I was going to use the fat-free or reduced fat version, but again, the corn syrup dilemma. I figure it’s better to use the real stuff instead of the processed stuff.
I hope that by only having 2 cups of coffee in the morning with stevia, ground cinnamon and a bit of cream, that’s acceptable?
Thoughts?
Jan 17, 2011 @ 09:09:00
I was using Arizona tea at first, but noticed it is sweetened with Splenda and decided to avoid that. So now I “make” my green tea in a pitcher and drink it over ice and sweetened with stevia. I don’t drink much green tea hot… Dr. Mike didn’t really specify if it mattered, so hope “iced or chilled green tea” is ok!
Congrats on your 4# Sue! … I was disappointed with my lack of loss the first week. I haven’t gotten on the scale again yet… am waiting til day 18…
Although after that 1st week, I reassessed and discovered a couple little things I was doing wrong. Am still struggling to get the exercise in on a daily basis and I wander the house at night sometimes, trying to avoid snacking, so drink a herb decaf tea instead sometimes… again, hope that is ok!
Christine
Jan 18, 2011 @ 06:16:19
Okay I am confused!!!! I started the diet yesterday and I am confused about the yogurt. The no-fat plain yogurt has 110 Calories then you add your sugar-free jam and that is another 10 calories Then you look at Dannon non-fat flavored yogurt
6 ozs and it is 80 calories. So can someone tell me the difference between the two?
and why we need to eat the one and not the other?
Jan 18, 2011 @ 07:02:30
I am starting the diet today. I’m just curious, what kind of yogurt is anyone eating? I went to 3 stores and couldn’t find sugar free yogurt. I compared all the labels and they all seem high in sugar/carbs. So those of you who are losing weight, what brand of yougurt do you eat? Thanks for your help!
Jan 18, 2011 @ 11:23:39
I eat CARBMASTER which has about 4 grams of sugar. You probably can’t find yogurt without sugar but get the lowest you can!
Jan 18, 2011 @ 11:25:32
First, don’t count calories. It’s the SUGAR grams you should be looking at…not the calories. Many non fat yogurts have as much as 27 grams of sugar! So the lower the fat and calories has nothing to do with the amount of sugar. Does that help? If in doubt the best way to go is to buy non fat plain, Greek style is best because it has more protein and will keep you fuller, longer…and add a tbls or so of sugar free jam or jelly.
Jan 19, 2011 @ 10:55:20
Terri,
Do you happen to know if I can have dill pickles? I am just starting phase 2 and have lost 12 lbs. I’m so excited but I don’t want to do anything I shouldn’t. I love pickles and I really don’t see anything on the contents that should interfere with the diet. What do you think?
Jan 19, 2011 @ 11:02:39
Yes, you can. It’s a condiment. Remember the salt may effect you temporarily…
Jan 20, 2011 @ 12:04:30
I am on day 17 of cycle one and have lost 8lbs. I am very happy with the eight pounds because I am over fifty with back problems and have a very hard time losing weight. This diet cleared my craving for carbs and sugar. I would like to know if ANY shellfish is allowed on cycle 2 and is shellfish also unlimited protein at mealtimes? How many good carbs are allowed on the alternating days? Are any breads allowed in cycle 2 or is it only grains? Please help I hate to mess up and start gaining weight back.
Jan 21, 2011 @ 09:30:16
Why do you list Carrots? Carrots are not in the book for Cycle 1. Carrots are high in Sugar.
Jan 21, 2011 @ 12:18:23
Karen the list is exactly as I received it from the show. I did not edit it in any way.
Jan 21, 2011 @ 12:23:51
Yes Christine the herbal tea is okay and I am slowly stopping wandering at night (although at 2:00 AM I was making the eggs and apple and you’d thought I’d died and gone to heaven – in fact I literally made “mmmmm….” sounds, outloud, while eating it! (Apples sliced, in the pan with Pam for Baking, saute, then pour in slightly beaten egg with vanilla, cinnamon..OMG..it was SO GOOD – yes I know it was “after 2PM” but it was also after 2AM!) I could live on that !!! In fact I want to save all my eggs for that!!!
Jan 21, 2011 @ 12:25:01
I think it’s okay. I use a bit occasionally and I’m still losing. Maybe I’d lose faster if I didn’t have it but somethings are just not reasonable – like messing with my coffee!
Jan 22, 2011 @ 14:31:28
I’m not sure this is how I join your group or post a comment, I’m new at this.. just found your link at the 17daydiet & started this diet on 1/19/11 it sounds like something I’ll even be able to get my husband on, I’ve lost a few lbs already & I’m sure when he sees how do able it is he’ll give it a try, anything to feel better, right?
I read your story & God bless you & every one on here …it gives hope to others that are struggling.
Jan 22, 2011 @ 17:48:48
I just discovered this site today. The apples and eggs sounds unusual. I never heard of this combination. I have apples and eggs. Thanks I will try this tomorrow.
Jan 22, 2011 @ 17:59:19
Well you can just use egg whites or the whole egg. I slice the apple really thin…and saute with PAM, cinnamon and a little water if needed until the apples are soft. Then I lightly beat the egg with vanilla, cinnamon and Truvia and pour it in and either scramble it (doesn’t look too pretty but it tastes the same) or let it set around the apple and fold – usually I’m too hungry and just scramble! It’s like custard. It’s SO GOOD.
Glad you’re here Annie! Jump right in!
Jan 23, 2011 @ 13:27:31
Hi everyone! I’m so glad you sent me this link Terri! I seem to be having a hard time getting my book so hope i can get started this week while i wait! I did notice some ideas about the green tea. I’m not a big fan of it either, but going to try my best. Is there ever a time that black tea can be ok? also, can things like turkey sausage be eaten at breakfast? or anyting on the list be eaten anytime of day? I tend to take it literally, and thought wow, i will starve lol I have to really be sure i get enough as i am borderlined hypoglycemic, so my blood sugar drops and i get real light headed. Also have hypothyroid, that i’m trying to deal with. I sure hope i can have the success you all have and not be to hungry! Also, I plan on taking a probiotic as i just cant stomach any yogurts, so can that be replaced with something else if i get hungry?
thanks !!!
Jan 23, 2011 @ 17:27:01
So glad you’re here Renee! You can mix black tea with green tea or just have black tea in addition. Be careful with the turkey sausage. It contains dark meat usually so don’t treat it as a FREEBIE. The “FREEBIES” on the list can be eaten anytime. You won’t be hungry if you eat enough protein. I always make extra and put a chicken breast or even some cooked ground turkey in the fridge. When I’m hungrey I take a few bites and I’m fine. There are some alternatives to yogurt, sauerkraut? Miso soup? But not really a replacement for not eating yogurt. Just up your protein or try making a shake with the yogurt.
Jan 23, 2011 @ 21:51:24
What about sugarless hard candy, my husband likes it at night while watching TV. ? The eggs and apples sounds really good.
Jan 24, 2011 @ 10:22:21
I just noticed something that maybe could be helpful for on the go meals. I noticed shopping today, there is chicken chunks in a can that are 98% fat free! I thought wow, could be very handy when maybe out and get a quick salad, and could just take that with you to throw on top or just for anytime in a hurry and cant be bothered with cooking chicken up.
Wondering how well they may work in the chicken wraps too??
Jan 25, 2011 @ 13:26:52
Terri I haven’t seen anything about sugarless candy, is there anything in it that is going to mess up our metabolism? My husband likes to eat the hard candy at night, it has isomalt and sucralose, 4 pieces have 13g of sugar alcohol. ……..
I want to thank you again for creating this wonderful space, I took the time today to read all the comments from all these amazing women, I hope to get to know you all better and share all of our successes.
Jan 26, 2011 @ 07:51:01
hi there
i love this site and the support system you have created!! amazing!! i have not ordered the book yet as i only heard about this diet 3 days ago and wanted to do some research! i am conviced now. so i will be ordering the book…i do have some questions though..
cycle 1 says to limit your carbs…does the book tell you how many you should be having in a day??
did you find that you were going thru carb with drawl…i felt like this when i did atkins for the first few days…
any help or tips would be wonderful! i have been reading people’s comments and they are very helpful!
Jan 26, 2011 @ 10:14:54
Hi Terry & everyone!! I LOVE, LOVE your site! I’m waiting on my book, but want to get started now & be prepared.
Questions:
1) Does anyone know if you can have air popped popcorn, then spray with cooking spray & lighly salt? That is one of my favorite snacks, but I don’t know if that’s ok for cycle 1…or at all for that fact.
2) I’ve read no coffee, but then some have coffee . . . is 1-2 cups of coffee w/out sugar or creamer ok?
3) What about nuts? Like peanut butter with your apple, or almonds to snack on?
I think that’s it for now & I should be getting my book this weekend:) I’m so excited to loose this weight & have my self-confidence back!! I can’t wait to feel good about myself, so that I can be a better wife for my cute hubby, & a healthier mom for my 2 kids!! Thanks all!!!
Jan 26, 2011 @ 13:28:08
Michele, re: the sugarless candy – It’s not officially allowed – BUT a couple of pieces won’t be the worst thing. I’d go ahead and use as few as possible and if the weight loss stalls you’ll know the first thing to cut out. I use the sugarfree gum which I know Dr. Mike frowns on – but HEY, a girls gotta do what a girls gotta do!
Jan 26, 2011 @ 13:28:24
Or in this case…a guy!
Jan 26, 2011 @ 13:48:47
Hi Andrea, When I first received the diet, from the show, they said “no coffee” then the book came out and BAM, “yes, coffee!” Not one to look a gift horse in the mouth I just thought, GREAT, I’ll have my coffee and moved ahead! I’ve run into several things like this – okay in one and not okay in another! Drink your coffee! But watch, Green Tea has caffeine in it so you might want decaf or cut back on the coffee. No popcorn, no nuts until later Cycles (Cycle 3 I think) but if you look through the recipes there are lots to choose from! If it’s not allowed it’s not on the list! BUT the things you have to get by without are only temporary! You don’t have to give them up forever – just for a little while until you adjust your food intake and remember, it’s ONLY FOOD!
Jan 26, 2011 @ 14:34:20
Elaine, I think taking the scale is an excellent idea! With some extra exercise you can balance your food intakes and hopefully enjoy your vacation and come back weighing the same!
Jan 26, 2011 @ 19:48:10
In cycle 2, can we have unlimited amounts of STARCHY vegetables? If not, what are the rules on that?
Jan 27, 2011 @ 17:15:26
Thank you so much for sharing all of this information.
It is hard to find a lot about the 17 day diet so I was apprehensive about buying the book. I think you should be paid by the Dr as it was your site that pushed me to buy the book.
I am a little scared because I am not a vegetable eater, but I saw enough things on the grocery list that I am going to give it a try. I want to lose about 20 lbs. Wish me luck!
Thanks again.
Jan 27, 2011 @ 18:06:14
Hi Terry & Everyone! Well, I started on Jan 3rd, and I am so happy to say I am down 12 lbs. I have been pretty good – except for wine (Savignon Blanc from New Zealand), and 2 cookies yesterday, and 2 cookies today (my hubby made FABULOUS Banana almond choc. chip ones). My saving grace has been working out EVERY DAY. I tried the cd…but it hurt my knee (I had a menescus surgery 2 years ago). My exercise bike, glider, and treadmill have been the exercises of choice. Thanks ladies…love the recipes from the book!
My new favorite recipe – not in the book – (courtesy of Guy Fieri): Chicken Burgers
Ingredients
2 ounces olive oil
1/2 red onion, diced
4 tablespoons diced black olives
1/2 red bell pepper, diced
1 jalapeno, diced (don’t use)
2 cloves garlic, diced
1/4 cup diced artichoke hearts
1 1/2 pounds ground chicken
1/2 teaspoon Hungarian paprika
1/2 teaspoon chili powder
1 teaspoon dried oregano
1 tablespoon minced fresh parsley leaves
1/2 teaspoon red chili flakes
1/2 teaspoon ground cumin
1/2 teaspoon celery salt
1/4 teaspoon ground sage
2 tablespoons seasoned bread crumbs
1 egg
I have made these 3 weeks in a row on a Sunday – ate them for lunch throughout the week!! Delicious!! No bun… or condiments. Love it plain!
Jan 27, 2011 @ 18:32:29
Bigelow makes green tea bags in the traditional Constant Comment (orange and spice) and Earl Grey flavors. These are my two favorites when having black tea, so I thought I’d try them in the green tea versions….and I can’t even tell the difference. They are wonderful! Not bitter at all.
Jan 27, 2011 @ 20:07:41
Hello everyone, I got out of work early today and caught the end of the Dr. Phil show. He was talking about the 17 day diet and the people that were on it from his show. Apparently they will be weighing in on the Dr.s show soon.
Being the skeptic that I am I immediately googled this diet and expected to read about how it was just another diet with false claims. Instead I came across this blog and have been amazed at what everyone is saying. Just about everything you are suppose to eat on this diet I really enjoy. Even plain green tea. So I am excited to get started. I placed the order for the book tonight and hope it doesn’t take too long to arrive. I am in my early 50′s about 20 lbs overweight and frustrated as to how hard it is to lose weight. I exercise a couple times a week. I know I could and should do more. Maybe now if I am on this diet I will have more incentive.
I am looking forward to reading the book and get started and will be checking in here along the way.
Jan 27, 2011 @ 20:36:27
Hi Elizabeth…no we only speak the truth around here – good and bad! I am 57 and started the diet through The Doctors show in early Oct or late Sept. You can start by using the OVERVIEW and the Grocery list provided here!
Jan 28, 2011 @ 10:07:08
Hello Everybody!
I have been reading comments here for about 2 hrs solid now. This is great Terri! I think it’s so thoughtful of you to do this for everyone. Just the fact that you care so much about these people, and their journey to a healthier life, and you don’t even know us. I think you are a special person for taking the time to do this. As soon as my husband gets home tonight, I will be ordering my book. But I will certainly come here to your website for support, and to let you know how it goes when I get started. Thanks for helping me make my decision to do this diet. Just yesterday I went to look for a new outfit, and of course got depressed…AGAIN! I’m so tired of it. I want to walk into a clothing store and be able to get anything I want, and look and feel good in it. Thanks again…take care….and I’ll see all of you soon:-)
Jan 28, 2011 @ 10:27:37
Carrots are listed on page 42, right under cabbage.
Jan 28, 2011 @ 10:29:22
We are so happy to have you here Kelly! It’s time you change this for good! NO more elastic waists! In fact you should go to the first post, from December 8th, “And So We Begin” and work forward over the weekend as much as you can. There are suggestions and tips that will help you get started and stay on track. We have our good days and bad days but there’s always someone around to dust you off and push you back over the finish line. I’m the one who’s lucky to have the people here I have. Who am I to have the opportunity to meet these outstanding men and women??? It’s truly a blessing and I try to treat it and the people with that respect. I love my “guys and gals” here…I’m so glad you’re joining us.
Jan 28, 2011 @ 10:38:04
hey me and my wife are looking to start the diet, ive viewed the meal plans and have a good idea how it works, but i had a few questions. feel free to email me at your earliest convenience.
thanks,
mike
Jan 28, 2011 @ 11:14:11
I have a question about the fruit servings. How much is the serving? Is it a whole orange or a half? Is it a cup of grapes? I just read in the sample menu that to use a 1/2 a grapefruit or other fresh fruit. Also, I have found some great Greek Yogurt with 20gm of Sodium & Carbs. Is this ok to eat in Cycle 1? When it comes to measurements; what should we measure and how often? All your help will be appreciated, thank you.
Jan 28, 2011 @ 18:27:25
In cycle 3, there is a snack list…how many snacks are we allowed throughout the day?
Jan 29, 2011 @ 05:39:13
Dr. Phil gave the book to the members of his audience when he first started talking about this diet on his show. Maybe that’s what she is talking about when she mentioned the free book.
Jan 29, 2011 @ 06:13:45
I would like to know if this diet work’s for diabetics???Have any tried it and have they had any success???
Thank,
Jan 29, 2011 @ 06:30:53
He said last night “yes” that the Type 1 Diabetic should be more cautious on this diet with taking blood sugars, keep a close watch on them and it’s perfect for Type 2
Jan 29, 2011 @ 08:36:35
Hubby and I started this diet on January 1. We are loving it. It is so easy and he has lost 16 pounds, I have lost 11 (and 5 inches from my waist). Hubby only has a few more pounds to lose. I on the other hand have at least 70 or more to lose. This has been the easiest “diet” I have ever tried and I have tried them all, LOL! Hubby and I feel soooo much better eating this way. So, if there are any doubters out there, don’t doubt, try and you will be amazed at how good you feel! Thanks for this blog, I love reading all the comments and glean so much from the questions and answers. Love the new recipes too!
Jan 29, 2011 @ 09:06:15
THANKS!! I got really sick and ended up in the hospital. I will be getting back on the plan, starting from day one, as soon as I can get to the grocery store!! The good news is that I lost a TON of weight when I was sick!
Jan 30, 2011 @ 19:31:15
Where can I find Low-fat Acidophilus Milk?
Jan 31, 2011 @ 05:52:58
I posted this on the main boards but thought i’d bring it here too for ideas and maybe will come up for another as well:
I understand for the diet it says about the unlimited egg whites but only 4 whole eggs a week or 2 in a days time. However, i got the book and read this “But stick to no more than four yolks per week if your physician has diagnosed you with high cholesterol.” Underlining the part about being diagnosed with high cholesterol, I do not have high cholesterol and never have. That is one thing that is excellent on me lol. So is it necessary for me to continue with egg whites? Or can i still be fine with whole eggs of which i’ve eaten for years without any cholesterol issues?
Jan 31, 2011 @ 05:56:59
Hi Diana! I personally have eaten about a cup of grapes, a whole orange or apple, but would cut a grapefruit in half as it IS rather large. Keeping in mind you want to watch the fullness meter of your belly too sort of helps judges it.
I’m not sure on the yogurt, as i’m not eating it, but think any hte more low fat the more low sugar the better from what it seems.
Far as measuring, i have maybe 3 times in the past week in my excitement lol. But thats just a personal preference. Some like to wait the 17 days to see, some every day, some each week, whatever keeps you motivated! good luck to you! Its been a great thing so far for me!
Jan 31, 2011 @ 05:58:26
not sure how to email you Mike, but we’d be happy to help here if you’d like to post! May help others too with the same questions. Congrats on getting started with your wife!
Feb 02, 2011 @ 15:51:17
Does anyone know if you can have cantaloupe?
Feb 03, 2011 @ 06:38:37
Diet soda is terrible for you. The artificial sugar turns off the signal that you are full. Not to mention all the other bad ingredients!!!!
Feb 03, 2011 @ 06:42:56
I love the latest post, “It’s all in your head”. Why we self sabotage ourselves. Change is difficult…. mentally that is! I find I have to get REALLY determined and not allow myself to slack off and cheat whenever I make changes. It’s my choice to succeed or not!
Feb 04, 2011 @ 09:42:10
I have a question. I am getting ready to start Cycle 2 on Sunday. VERYYY nervous! Anyway, I was wondering, on the days you can have red meat, is that just one time those days? Or can you have it for lunch and dinner? I am really hoping my weight loss continues… I know it will slow down, but I am afraid it is going to stop, because Cycle 1 worked so well! Thanks for all your help and support! Terri, you are amazing and I am excited to buy the cookbook!!! Hope you feel better soon!
Feb 04, 2011 @ 13:26:05
i ordered the book today.. what can i do to get started now.. or when do you think i will be able to start my wt lose?
Feb 05, 2011 @ 13:28:13
Curious as to how long each cycle is? I don’t see anything specific about that. Not started this diet yet and am interested.
Feb 05, 2011 @ 14:51:33
Hi Terri
Okay we’ve moved on to phase 2–my wife lost 8 lbs on phase 1 and is thrilled. I have a question for you regarding beans on phase 2. I know a serving is 1/2 cup but how many servings per day? And is it anytime during the day or only before 2 p.m.?
Thanks again
Dean
RI
Feb 09, 2011 @ 03:27:21
I have now finished 3 weeks and lost 8 pounds. It has not been easy. You see from the time I got the book to the end of Feb. I had a business trip with the stress of that and bad weather, The Super Bowl, Friday night date nights with hubby, and now my birthday, a special party we throw yearly, another business trip, a trip to Napa Vally, Our anniversary, Valentines Day and that is just Jan to Feb.
I hate tea, but get it once a day, I have cheated, but not very much. The big thing is that I have had no POP. Do not like diet, but drank the regular. I usually only had one or two a day, but that was around 400 calories I have given up and replaced with more fruit.
Feb 09, 2011 @ 18:13:57
I am starting Cycle 2 tomorrow and have lost 10 pounds. I am craving chocolate so bad though…any ideas? I have not cheated at all and don’t want to start now!!! By the way, I tried plain yogurt with cocoa and truvia and it was disgusting.
Feb 09, 2011 @ 19:20:01
Hi all: been a few days since I’ve been here to look around. My book is lost somewhere or something. Mom is reordering after her vacation! lol So…I’ve been stuck on cycle 1 for days and days and days…AND I’m having a hard time sticking with it and getting a bit discouraged. However, since I see that some of Cycle 2 has been posted, I’m headed out to get some new foods to add to my arsonal and plan to stick with it! I’m down 13 1/2 lbs since I began on Jan 14. Not too shabby! Working out at least and hour a day 5 days a week. So is that about average? I’m very curious, as I still have about 100 lbs to lose. I’d like to be down about 50 lbs at the least by July as I’m going on an Alaskan cruise for my 50th birthday. 50 BEFORE 50, my new goal!!
Feb 11, 2011 @ 05:28:15
Does the book talk about calorie intake?? I am wondering if I am or am not eating enough!! Please give insight to this.. Thanks!!
Feb 11, 2011 @ 13:21:56
No Lindsey it does not. I’ve heard anywhere from 800 to 1200 a day is what most people are eating. 800 is pretty low…but the book does not talk about calories, carbs, etc.
Feb 11, 2011 @ 13:23:01
Thank you Elaine! What a nice compliment. I enjoy writing and hadn’t done much of it since my days as a stand up. I’m enjoying it.
Feb 11, 2011 @ 18:13:44
Hey guys, just found your website. I am on day 7 of the diet and I have lost 4 pounds. I have been skinny all my life until I quit smoking 4 years ago. I just celebrated my 4 year anniversary. I have tried everything to get 35 pounds off that I gained. I am grateful I dont smoke…but this over 40 thing is killing me…I am exercising about 30 minutes a day strictly cardio. I am actually using my wii sports inside because it is so cold outside and my treadmill is the garage. I jog 1.5 miles on the wii for 10 minutes and then 3o it 3 more times in intervals. I am not sure if my weight loss is good for 7 days. I was kinda discouraged until I realized on other diets I hadn’t lost this much. I read your posts and Terri this is so awesome what you are doing. I can’t wait to see where I am in 17 days. My problem now is I am not hungry and I am having a hard time getting down the 2 servings of yogurt and fruit. I am doing it by the book but I am about to gag with the yogurt because i am still full after lunch.
Feb 11, 2011 @ 18:23:33
I can’t stress enough to the younger group of us – it will never be easier to get the weight off than it is RIGHT NOW. Get your habits under control NOW…it will get harder and harder. People used to tell me that but I just didn’t get it but boy is it true! It just STICKS on and won’t come off! Stay the course Lisa..it will come off and you are getting healthier everyday. Remember it’s more than just a number on the scale. It’s your health. 4 lbs in a week, is DOUBLE the average loss for any “regular” diet plan (WW, Jenny Craig, etc.) which averages about 1.5-2 lbs a week. You are doing an outstanding job! Really, your exercise is on target – even a little more than you have to do but since you’re not hungry I’d keep it up. If someone doing your amount of exercise is very hungry I might tell them to cut back but you’re okay. YOu are probably building more muscle than most. Remember you can’t go by a NUMBER of pounds. It’s PERCENTAGE. If you weigh 150 lbs and lose 3% in a week, that’s 4.5 lbs. If you weigh 200 lbs and lose 3% that’s 6 lbs in a week. SO you can’t compare scale numbers. This is where so many people go wrong!
Feb 11, 2011 @ 18:33:41
Thank you Terri. You are so encouraging. Your right I am healthier…And guess what when I was skinny I wasnt healthy I was a SMOKER and now I am not. So thanks I will take that and run with it. I did find one more thing today that I was doing wrong..I am having sweet n low in my coffee…I saw truvia but I also saw where I thought sweetner was okay but it looks like alot of people are saying its bad for you. I will try Truvia soon. Again, thanks and I plan on enjoying your website . Thanks again.
Feb 12, 2011 @ 20:36:08
I received my book and began the 17 Day plan on February 1st. It is February 12th and I have lost 8.5 pounds. It has been very encouraging to get on the scale each morning and see that I have lost 1/2 to 1 pound almost everyday. I am a teacher and have a very hectic schedule but I have not felt tired or craved any of the foods that I gave up on day #1 . Because of a foot problem, I have not been able to do a lot of the exercises but I hope to be more regular in the near future. I did not take the tip to be sure and drink water seriously at first and sure enough, I began having some problems; but that is fixed ,now. All in all,it has been an easy plan to follow. I will continue.
Feb 13, 2011 @ 15:59:04
I was wondering about venison? Would it be on cycle2?
Feb 13, 2011 @ 16:36:40
Although he does not address this in the book Sabrina, after reviewing the nutritional content I’ve been telling people it’s okay to use in Cycle 2.
Feb 13, 2011 @ 16:37:17
Good Betsy, yes you will NEED that water!
Feb 13, 2011 @ 16:40:08
Sweet and Low, Equal, etc. the reason the Dr. says to avoid is the chemicals. If you use them, even though there are no calories, it still can effect your weight loss because your body is taxed processing the chemicals instead of processing your stored fat! SO if you use them just be aware it might effect the amount you lose the the speed you lose weight.
Feb 13, 2011 @ 16:42:36
Lisa, I’m so happy you’re here! Thank you for joining us. I would LOVE to have a wii but it’s not in our budget! Maybe next year – it’s a great tool to have for losing and keeping the weight off. Try to at least get your ONE yogurt in and one piece of fruit.
Feb 15, 2011 @ 09:16:06
My computer was down for a bit so I haven’t check in for awhile, but now I’m back!! I have been on the diet for 15 days now & have lost 11 lbs!! WAHOO!!! I am so excited! BUT, I have another question for you…. do you think I can do Cycle 1 for more than 17 days? I cheated a little here & there, so I was wondering if I should stay on Cycle 1 until I loose at least 17 lbs. Do you think that would be ok? Thanks so much for all your support & knowledge!!
Feb 15, 2011 @ 11:11:04
I started the 17 Day Diet 9 days ago.I lost 4lbs in the first 5 days, I had some wine over the weekend but I followed the food part to a T and last eve. for supper I had a lobster and 1 glass wine (Valentines Day) and today I’m up one and a half lbs today.Is this because of the wine? I am back on track today,I have about 10 more to lose. I think the diet is great and am hopeful I will loose them.I like that the weight loss is rapid.I went to weight watchers, It’s a good diet but it’s slow and I get discouraged .
Feb 16, 2011 @ 08:49:25
Andrea, I don’t think it is recommended to do cycle one more than 17 days. You have done great so far ( even with the cheating). So stay on course and you will continue to see the weight loss…
Feb 16, 2011 @ 08:58:43
Anita, don’t do it…it is not worth it….I made it through Valentines
Day with candy all around me, and I am a true juck food eater. You have done very good to have made it this far without cheating. I am on day 15 and have lst 8 pounds…Remember this….Nothing taste as good as being Healthy feels….Be strong
Feb 16, 2011 @ 09:01:41
Each cycle is 17 days
Feb 16, 2011 @ 10:29:15
Thanks Shelia! I think I’ll continue onto Cycle 2 & just work out WAY more….since I didn’t really at all for the 1st cycle;)
Feb 19, 2011 @ 13:40:18
I love how good veggies start to taste when we clean up our diet! It’s one of the best benefits to eating healthy!!!
Feb 20, 2011 @ 13:33:49
I would love to try this diet but am leary as I am a type 2 diabetic. This diet limits carbs especially on cycle 1. Whatr do you think of my trying this, I don`t want any complications.
Feb 20, 2011 @ 17:55:31
Bonnie– Terri is under the weather for a few days and won’t be able to address your question until she gets back.
The book (The 17 Day Diet) does say that the diet is appropriate for people with specific types of Diabetes, but only one really qualified to answer your question is your own medical doctor.
Feb 21, 2011 @ 09:38:34
I cannot do caffiene! It gives me terrible migraines so Im wondering if there is anyway to get around the green tea.Had to stop the diet on my first day.HELP!
Feb 21, 2011 @ 10:23:36
Why are you using caffienated Green Tea then Terri says? There is nothing else with caffiene in it!?!?!?? She’s confused?
Feb 21, 2011 @ 10:24:41
Sorry, this is “The Husband” I accidentally logged on with Terri’s account. She may be back later today.
Feb 21, 2011 @ 10:37:28
Louise, Terri is out ill but should return this afternoon, she says to use Decaffienated Green Tea or, don’t use it at all.
Feb 21, 2011 @ 15:11:46
Hi Terri, I opened my email that was sent about the cookbook you’ve finished….I don’t have time right now to order, “BUT” I did want you to know there’s something really screwy going on with your orders for this cookbook. I’ve currently got (at last count) 6 emails with receipts from other customers, I don’t think you want this going on….It’s copies of payments, & when I tried to send a reply back to you letting you know that this was happening…all I got was a no-reply notice that I couldn’t reply to this notice, so I thought you might want to fix it!
Teena Keith
Feb 24, 2011 @ 23:36:44
Terri…Thanks to this wonderful blog, I have bought the book,and DVD..book is great ..lots of wonderful info, DVD tough for me , injured my back and recent recurrance has very much “killed” all my exercise plans including walking , on the mend,but Great News..Went to my cardiologist yesterday blood pressure PERFECT..(that hasn’t happened in YEARS,) .said heart, carotids, perfect function..told him about 17 day diet..He said quote :…”good diet!! keep it up”..My Dr. is the Director of Cardiology in a well known Heart Center here in New York..I have a long way to go but this is very doable..never hungry ..Love the Faget greek yogurt..I buy the most expensive salmon and figure its well worth it (less than a good restaurant)..husband lost 10 lbs so far ..me ..51/2 lbs..feel great..Good Luck to all and Thanks for the support the blog offers!! Oh, by the way for those of you who are over 50..??? Rejoice, I’m over 70!
Feb 25, 2011 @ 08:06:05
just wondering why the morning water with lemon needs to be hot. I have a hard time getting it down. Would be tastier cold. ANY HELP?
Feb 25, 2011 @ 12:39:03
Traci, I’ve read that you do get an additional benefit from it warm but I think cold is better than not at all. I just use warm tap water myself….Go ahead and do it cold!
Feb 27, 2011 @ 14:28:02
Hi Terri, I was wondering if you had any insight or opinion on how this lifestyle change, along with its specific eating times etc work for someone who works nights, 12 hr shifts, 3 days a week, therefore sleeping throught the day. And on the other days, follows a “normal” sleep routine. So what would be my 2pm cut off for certain fruits, and if I were supposed to eat, say, 5 times a day, how would I space that out over a 24hr time frame? This has always been my battle with any weightloss plan I have tried. HOW do I make this work with my crazy schedule??? On somedays I find myself STARVING, for ex. (consuming 1200 cals in 24 hrs awake time), or the flip side so full (cramming 1200 cals into a 9 hr span of awake time).
You seem very knowledgable, and a decent person with good advice. Just wondering if you had any thoughts! Thanks so much!
Feb 28, 2011 @ 01:33:18
Acen, basically you don’t want to have your fruit within 7-8 hours before bedtime whenever that is for you. I don’t go to bed until 3:AM or so so I can eat fruit until 7-8 PM. Other than that just do your meals around your schedule. I would still have the green tea and lemon water when you wake up. with breakfast.
Feb 28, 2011 @ 15:51:49
Thanks Terri, that makes sense to me (no fruits 7-8 hrs before bedtime). Ill def. keep that in mind. Now Im just toying around with ordering the book online for $40 with faster shipping vs waiting until available at B&N for $15 on March 15th. Hmmmm . 3day gratification, or save $$ and wait.
Feb 28, 2011 @ 15:56:17
Acen, don’t buy it yet unless you have to. I’d wait if I were you!
Feb 28, 2011 @ 16:55:25
Im so impatient though. Plus, even with your overview Im still confused as to exactly what to do. I need clear direction… hoping the book gives that!
Mar 02, 2011 @ 12:41:04
I have been boiling chicken breast and then letting them cool. Putting them in a ziplock bag and smashing it until the breast is shredded. I then add taco seasoning and heat on the stove to make a shredded chicken taco. I put the seasoned meat on top of lettuce and eat. I want to make sure if everyone thinks this is ok for cycle one? I know taco seasoning isnt on the menu but I thought it would be ok since I havent been having any other condiments or really anything other than freebie type foods?
Mar 02, 2011 @ 21:13:08
Yes Shannon, that’s perfect. Of course there is salt in the taco seasoning so try to use it sparingly or make your own but other than that it’s fine. Seasonings are fine as long as there’s no sugar!
Mar 04, 2011 @ 07:24:56
Ok. I’ve had the book sitting on my counter for a few weeks now. Kind of afraid to try it. I exercise most days for at least 45 minutes, I watch what I eat, and I cannot lose one pound. It’s so discouraging. So I saw the Dr. Phil show and said maybe I can do this. After reading these posts, I think I can certainly try! Thank you to all who participate!
Mar 07, 2011 @ 08:03:57
Question: Can you eat breakfast then a snack then lunch then a snack then dinner… like that or do they want you to eat breakfast, one fruit and yogurt and protein at lunch? I split my day up by snacks…
Thanks waiting on my book!!!!
Mar 07, 2011 @ 08:27:46
Terri, My daughter and Hubby are going to try this diet with me and we are just waiting on our book to go shopping. I just have a few questions
1. can you drink to much green tea through out the day and can we sweeten it with Truvia? (We usually make tea by the gallon here with one cup of sugar to a whole gallon)
2. Are my and hubby allowed to have a few beers when out with friends (low cal beer like Mich. Ultra)?
3. my Hubby don’t really eat through the day while he is at work. will this hurt his results?
Im sure i have more questions yet i will only give a few at a time here.. thanks for your blog and ll the support you are giving.
Tina & Allysen (daughter 10)
Mar 07, 2011 @ 10:57:10
If you eat off the freebies list Ang you can eat as much as you want at anytime. As long as you eat fruit before 2:00 pm…that’s the only real “rule”. So if you want to eat every couple of hours or so that’s fine! Or every hour..just eat off the list!
Mar 07, 2011 @ 11:00:28
Yes you can sweeten with Truvia or Stevia.
Beers aren’t allowed. That’s not to say you can’t have them but if you’re asking “are they part of the diet” then no, they aren’t.
He should not to all day without eating. Regardless of this diet of no diet. Really, its’ a very bad habit and to be honest can really mess up your metabolism. I don’t know that it will actually hurt his results but it will hurt his metabolism. Think of food as fuel…he’s running on empty all day then probably overeating when he sees food because he must literally be starving! Best not to get that hungry and eat smaller meals throughout the day. If I was going to change one thing I’d change that before the beer!
Mar 11, 2011 @ 09:10:42
I don’t have the book yet,why can we not have skim milk?
Mar 11, 2011 @ 09:16:35
He didn’t say Jackie. He just said Soy milk and Almond milk are okay, no skim milk. I assume it’s because of the carbs but I don’t know that and he doesn’t specify in the book.
Mar 11, 2011 @ 17:26:47
I want to start Cycle 1 but I am confused about the snacks. It says that snacks are fruit, or yogurt with fruit, yet – not to eat fruit after 2 pm. Well… snack time is like 3pm and 7pm so…. this is contradictory. How are you supposed to have fruit for snacks, yet not have any fruit after 2 pm? Following that would mean I’d eat everything before 2 pm and then just have dinner. That just ain’t gonna work!
So obviously….. me is confused! So can someone explain how this is supposed to work? And no… I will NOT eat veggies and meats for snacks, those foods are for meals. And I don’t eat cheese. Help?
Mar 12, 2011 @ 14:46:46
Bonnie, My husband and I are both type 2 diabetics. We have lost weight and stabilized the blood sugars and feel great on this diet. Also, from past experience I have found that low carb is definitely good for type 2 diabetes.
Mar 14, 2011 @ 08:00:46
I am down 14 lbs. in 2 weeks. Couldn’t be happier. I am completely faithful to the plan, no cheating! It is so motivating to loose weight so fast. What is the expected weight loss in the 2nd cycle? Im assuming that it is much less.
thanks
Mar 14, 2011 @ 08:03:31
Any thoughts on McDonalds fruit and yogurt parfait? I love them. Are they ok to eat and do they count as a serving of fruit?
Mar 14, 2011 @ 12:44:48
No Traci they are NOT okay. They are loaded with sugar….You want to have yogurt that has no more than 9 grams of sugar in it.
Here’s another “trick” Macdonalds does…the nutritional info is: 160 calories, 21 grams of sugar (too much) based on a serving size of 5.3 oz. Well, guess the size of the Fruit n’ Parfait they give you? 7 oz!
SO that would mean you’re really getting closer to 27 or 30 grams of sugar per serving! You could eat candy and be better off! This is exactly one of the foods I was talking about in the post about seemingly healthy foods that will make you fat! It also has Splenda and Equal in it which are two sweeteners the book says to avoid.
Mar 14, 2011 @ 17:50:48
thanks Terri, sure miss it
Mar 14, 2011 @ 22:40:34
Can you eat pickles?
Mar 14, 2011 @ 22:54:31
Yes they are considered condiments and can be eaten in moderation.
Mar 20, 2011 @ 11:12:48
Hi my name is Rose, I have been on the 17 day diet since Jan 26, i’ve lost 18-20lbs so far. I am back on second cycle of C1,D2 i have about 30 more pounds to lose. I was having high blood pressure issues, so the weight has yo come off doctors orders.this seems to be a great place to learn more about the 17dd. Im excited to have people to chat with and help me though this time. I hope that i can be a help to some one as well.
Mar 20, 2011 @ 11:23:12
Hi my name is Rose, I have been on the 17 day diet since Jan 26, i’ve lost 18-20lbs so far. I am back on second cycle of C1,D2 i have about 30 more pounds to lose. I was having high blood pressure issues, so the weight hacome off doctors orders.this seems to be a great place to learn more about the 17dd. Im excited to have people to chat with and help me though this time. I hope that i can be a help to some one as well.
Mar 20, 2011 @ 11:23:50
Welcome Rose! We are so happy to have you here…Congratulations on your loss and you did that all on your own??? Without support groups? That’s a real inspiration to anyone starting out! I also would like to lose about 30 more pounds but I’ve been slacking off at the gym after recovering from a broken rib about a month ago. It’s so hard to get back in the routine…but I’m going to have to kick myself into gear this week.
Mar 20, 2011 @ 12:23:38
Hello, I was just curious, for cycle 1, can you consume ground turkey SAUSAGE??
Mar 21, 2011 @ 07:02:24
Hi all! I am starting today and I have about 45 lbs to lose. I went to the grocery store yesterday to get ready. I have my fruits and veggies all cleaned and ready but forgot the green tea! I have my pictures (ewwww) hiding close by so I can pull them out when needed! My happy moment today…I spent a lot of time looking for sugar free (or close to it) yogurt yesterday and I found the Dannon Light & Fit. It has 2 grams of sugar. I figured it would be HORRIBLE so I added a little cinnamon and a pinch of Truvia and OMG it was so good! In fact, it didn’t really need the Truvia so next time I will probably skip it. I made little happy noises as I ate it!! Plus, it’s in a 4 oz container so I could have 3 a day if I am reading the diet correctly!! Lol! I love the idea of having someone to talk to as I go through this! My first goal date is April 23. My high school class is getting together for drinks and I do not want to show up feeling like this about myself. Any loss would make it easier! Anyway, thanks for being here-all of you and good luck to all of us!!
Mar 21, 2011 @ 14:41:26
I was wondering what the serving size is for the oatmeal and rice on cycle 2. The book says 1/2 cup but is that cooked or uncooked? Thanks so much for the help.
Mar 21, 2011 @ 15:00:14
Heather, a serving is cooked!
Mar 21, 2011 @ 21:20:27
Wow, what a great diet! I would say that the 3rd day is the hardest, as you are craving your favorite foods the most on that day. I am doing this diet with a few different people and they all agree. After the 3rd day though it’s a breeze and no more cravings! After my 4th day I have lost 6.5 lbs!! I am very pleased. I feel so great, happy, and energized. Not only do you lose weight, but you gain a healthy lifestyle and feel so much better about yourself. I will be sticking this one out until the end!! If I don’t lose all the weight I want by the end, I will wait a little bit and start back over!
Mar 22, 2011 @ 08:35:01
Good Afternoon Gang!
I am on day five of cycle 1 and I am finding it alot easier than expected! I am enjoying the recipes and glad that I am doing it with a buddy. Here’s something I am wondering about; Mornings and during the day i am fine but I am finding that in the evening and while sleeping I am experiencing alot of belly discomfort not always gas but sometimes accompanied by gas. Is anyone else having these problems or does anyone have an anwer to this……
Apr 13, 2011 @ 09:27:40
I am so excited about the 17 day diet!!!! I started the diet today and was wondering if drinking hot/iced green tea counts as your water intake for the day? Also, I am a flight attendant and need some ideas on how to pack a food bag for at least 3 days of travel. My job makes it really hard to eat right.Any one have any ideas?
Apr 13, 2011 @ 16:35:00
Hello,
I am new here and have been a yoyo dieter for years. I really need to lose 10 pounds. I am concerned about the amount of calories on this diet being so low and putting me back in starvation mode which is what messed up my metobolism to begin with. I couldn’t lose weight at 1400 calories:( I think i finally have my metobolism back to normal where i can maintain at 1600 to 1800. Will this metobolism confusion be good for someone with a history of bingeing and starving?
Apr 16, 2011 @ 07:38:59
Ok so I have been asking this question every where I can but no body seems to know, Is there a certain amount of sugar/carb grams your allowed a day, I know it says you can have fat free dressings LC ketchup and some seasonings ect but some of them have sugar so I was just wondering if there is a limit of sugar/carbs you can have a day on the C1? Thank you
Apr 22, 2011 @ 04:48:35
Hi Terri. Jane here. Can you tell me how you get the cookbooks? I am thinking that you just pay off the link and then you email them to us for us to print? Just wanting confirmation before I go ahead. On Cycle 1 Day 5 today and when I weighed myself this morning I was down 9 pounds! Loving it!
Apr 23, 2011 @ 11:19:35
Jane, are you all set with the cookbooks??? You just order off the right hand side of the page and they will be sent to your email…
Let me know if you need further help or email the husband at:
syouell@cox.net
Apr 25, 2011 @ 07:32:57
I ordered my book from Amazon and should get it soon, they are usually quick. I just have a few questions, I’m not a milk person, I use it in cooking only. I use powdered creamer in my coffee, is that allowed? I only drink 2 cups a day except for Saturdays when I do a 12 hour overnight shift. I love green tea hot or cold. Can we have the diet cold green tea??? If not, no biggie I drink at least a gallon of water a day, I love water. Can we have sugar/fat free yogurt with the fruit in it?? And what about salt on veggies? I love veggies, but I usually put margarine on them. I work long hours and my main concern is the cooking. When I come home I’m not in a cooking mood. Are the recipes OK to freeze?? I can cook on my days off and freeze them. I’m also not a breakfast eater, I have to work on that. I work early shifts and the thought of eating eggs and fruit in the morning turn my stomach LOL. Could I eat a yogurt in the morning? I guess I’ll find all this out in the book, but I’m just curious.
Apr 25, 2011 @ 14:17:43
Coffee is fine..use creamer “sparingly” and use sugar free. The tea can be hot or cold just make sure NO SUGAR. Yogurt should be 9 grams or less of sugar per serving. The fat free are usually LOADED with sugar so stay clear of those for the most part. Salt, use sparingly….it adds water weight and water weight is still WEIGHT. Do you want to carry a 5 lb container of water around with you 24/7, never putting it down? Well, you will be if you continue with too much salt…so TRY to keep it down and use salt free seasonings when possible.
Recipes are fine to freeze. The cookbooks are great and offer lots of options and crockpot recipes too.
How about a protein shake in the mornings? Add your fruit and some whey protein powder “whey isolate protein powder” – not just whey protein – it won’t cause cramping…with fruit and yogurt in it?
May 01, 2011 @ 11:48:09
mary beth
i am also wondering about the cycle 2 …..
May 01, 2011 @ 11:49:49
Can some one comment on cycle 2
May 01, 2011 @ 14:02:17
What do you want to know?
May 01, 2011 @ 15:30:36
I am also wondering about cycle 2. I have been on cycle 2 for 3 days now but I have not lost or gained any weight for about 4 days or so! Am I doing something wrong??
May 01, 2011 @ 15:53:28
please see comment below…. I am new to blogging so Im still getting used to where to reply lol
May 08, 2011 @ 10:51:36
Hi, this is my first time to the site..what a wonderful site…I am starting the diet tomorrow…just a few questions…does the green tea have to be brewed or can you purchasethe green tea in the bottle by Lipton…and is it okay to eat two eggs in the morning each day for breakfast…I know the eggs are limited, but is that okay to eat that many eggs per week?
May 08, 2011 @ 14:49:18
You can have green tea in the bottle just make sure there is no sugar added or sweeteners. The goal is to get away from chemical sweeteners and use natural ones like Stevia or Truvia. So if you can find a bottled type that’s naturally sweetened that would be perfect. Two eggs are okay but I would be careful with 14 eggs a week, every week. Eggs are only limited IF you have high cholesterol but if you eat 14 eggs a week you may end up with high cholesterol even if you don’t start with it! I recommend eating no more than 8 yolks a week and all the egg whites you can stand! If you are scrambling eggs or making omelets for instance and use one whole egg and one or two egg whites you will not even taste the difference. Just 14 whole eggs a week, every week, I think could lead to problems….He says in the book that if you don’t have cholesterol problems that eggs are unlimited but I’d still ask your personal dr. 56 eggs a month sounds like a LOT of eggs to me.
May 09, 2011 @ 12:38:27
Hi Everyone,
I bought the book last week. Going to the grocery store tonight. Ive got about 80 lbs to lose. So wish me luck. Tired of being overweight and feeling bad all the time.
May 10, 2011 @ 05:48:01
I’ve been on the program for 15 days [C1D15] and have been at a plateau for 5 days after losing 6 pounds over the first 10 days! It’s so frustrating to be almost religious with the program and for my body to betray me like this. It’s happened to me on other programs in the past, but I thought the 17 Day Diet would be different. Seems my body is working against me, despite only eating an average of 1,000/1100 calories a day. Has anyone else experienced this?
Frustrated, I read an article by a dietetic expert who claims eating too little food can stall weight loss [temporarily] because the body goes into a “starvation mode” and holds onto fat in the cells as protection against potential famine. It’s in our DNA, or caveman biology, apparently, and is triggered by yo yo [feast or famine] dieting.
The solution I read is to eat a little more.. not much, adding maybe 200 calories a day, which signals our body we’re not starving and we can start losing weight again. I assume those calories should be healthy and cycle appropriate. I begin C2 in a couple days, which will naturally add about 200 cals. a day, so we shall see. I’m not giving up.
May 11, 2011 @ 07:54:41
ok so I bought this probiotic low fat yogart and it has 11 grams of sugar. Will it be okay? I bought like 10 of them so I do not want it to go to waste.
May 11, 2011 @ 09:00:57
Another thing I noticed is that a 1 cup serving of Kefir has more than 9 grams of sugar. Im confused. You said earlier not to eat yogart with more than 9 grams of sugar.
May 12, 2011 @ 23:09:08
You know what’s really interesting about your post is that back in the 90′s, I was a total Low Fatter… I hardly EVER lost weight (slowly gained 50 pounds thinking I was doing something wrong). BUT if I went and had a high fat meal, I would lose 2-3 pounds the next day. Not every day of course but say once a week. The low fat used to fatten me back up to where I was but by throwing in a high fat meal, it did something to my metabolism. When I found low carb and thus this plan, it all makes sense.
May 12, 2011 @ 23:10:12
It has to do with the type of sugar it is and that it’s not added sugar. I have added the greek yogurt, some has more “sugar” per serving than others but I am still losing.
May 13, 2011 @ 02:30:48
Calikari, you’re right! Here’s why all that low fat food made us FAT FAT FAT….the SUGAR SUGAR SUGAR…they take the fat out and they had to replace the taste with something so they added sugar.
Also because people get lazy and believe what the manufacturers put on the front of the label…WRONG. What they put on the label or what the name the product is meant to make you buy it not an indication of it’s healthiness. We see, “LOW FAT” on the product and think “hmmmm….I’m fat so less fat must be better, right” and we buy it (usually paying more for it by the way cause we’re so desperate to eat cookies and lose weight at the same time) but if you read and understand the nutritional labeling you’ll see that may not be the case at all. In fact it may have chemicals that clog up your liver forcing it to work overtime processing the chemicals instead of burning your fat. It likely has a ton of sugar. It may even have more calories or carbs the the “regular” product without the low fat label and almost ALWAYS has more sugar in it.
May 13, 2011 @ 02:31:49
Yes I would use the yogurt but next time try to stay under 9 grams of sugar if you can. There are several good brands out there now that meet that criteria.
May 17, 2011 @ 18:16:24
Well you are not alone in your thinking…there is a generation that was led to believe low fat would mean thin…but that was not at all the case (or we wouldn’t be here right?) In fact eating low carb was around in the 30′s, 40′s 50′s they just didn’t call it that…but to diet they did not eat pasta, bread, potatoes or rice…in fact my grandmother never ate those things…they all had very tiny little waists and bodies…It’s the carbs…they are deadly and in more ways than one! And although their reasoning for not eating those foods was different we now know they spike our insulin…and cause havoc with our blood sugar.
May 18, 2011 @ 12:20:12
I just started Cycle 2 today and I am happy to say that I lost 18 lbs on Cycle 1. I have a lot more energy and can actually get out and do physical things with my son. I have a lot more to lose, but it is going really well so far. Worried about adding the extra foods, but we will see how it goes.
May 18, 2011 @ 12:30:40
I found a low sodium taco seasoning and it was pretty good.
May 18, 2011 @ 13:34:41
There is also a recipe in the cookbook to make your own which is excellent.
May 20, 2011 @ 09:10:48
Terri I have a question I’m not sure if you have an answer to. I have been on the 17 day diet since Jan 3rd now and it is going great for me. I’ve lost 49 lbs so far and I want to loose about 11 more. I’m now dealing with very loose skin on my stomach. (I’ve had three babies) I’m walking 45 mins 4 or 5 days a week and taking cardio kickboxing one day a week for an hour. I was thinking maybe I should start taking a belly dancing class to help. Any ideas how to get rid of this skin? I really don’t want to get a tummy tuck. Any ideas?
May 20, 2011 @ 10:48:40
Christie, really the only way to get rid of extra skin is surgery. Now that said, some skin will shrink a little more…it just takes time. This is a disadvantage of losing weight quickly…it will take a year or so at least, after you’ve lost the weight you want to lose, to see exactly how much skin will be left..but it will take sometime and likely you will still have lose skin. If it was anyo other way NO one would have tummy tucks. This is the reason…they have to have them….weight gain…You can try belly dancing classes…it may “help” but it’s not going to solve the problem entirely but it sure won’t hurt.
Jun 03, 2011 @ 18:03:07
Just recently found out about this diet. I plan to start it Monday.
Question — I DO NOT like green tea at all! Could I just continue drinking my black tea and sweeten it with something else (or either just sweeten it with very little sugar)?
Jun 03, 2011 @ 19:34:56
No Anniebelle, one cannot replace the other…the Green Tea has specific health benefits. You can have your black tea but there is no reason to drink in place of the green they are completely different. There is a post on the blog on Green Tea you may want to read. I use one green tea bag and one black with sweetener and it cuts the taste. NO SUGAR…do you have the book? You will really need it. Please don’t try the diet without and trust me I get nothing from the book at all and in fact disagree with a few things in it and they the Dr. has chosen to do business BUT the bottom line is, to do the diet correctly you will need it. You can order it here under the STORE tab – you can use the OVERVIEW and GROCERY LIST in the mean time and by the time the book comes you will have lost 5 lbs…but you will need it. If you could do without I’d tell you but you really can’t. Sorry.
Have you joined our PRIVATE BOARD? Area 51? Instructions on page 1. It starts tomorrow. LOSE 20 lbs in 51 days!
REGARDING GREEN TEA:
In a study at the USDA Human Nutrition Research Center on Aging at Tufts University, participants who drank the equivalent of 3 cups of green tea a day lost twice as much weight as those not drinking tea. The tea-drinking group also lost significantly more belly fat than the non-tea drinkers.
If you like citrus, the news gets better. Replacing some of the tea brewing water with citrus juice, such as lemon, lime, orange, or grapefruit, allows your body to use more of the tea’s catechins. You can drink your green tea freshly brewed for a warming hot drink, or chill it after brewing for a refreshing cold drink.
Green tea is used to improve mental alertness and thinking.
It is also used for weight loss and to treat stomach disorders, vomiting, diarrhea, headaches, bone loss (osteoporosis), and solid tumor cancers.
Some people use green tea to prevent various cancers, including breast cancer, prostate cancer, colon cancer, gastric cancer, lung cancer, solid tumor cancers and skin cancer related to exposure to sunlight. Some women use green tea to fight human papilloma virus (HPV), which can cause genital warts, the growth of abnormal cells in the cervix (cervical dysplasia), and cervical cancer.
Green tea is also used for Crohn’s disease, Parkinson’s disease, diseases of the heart and blood vessels, diabetes, low blood pressure, chronic fatigue syndrome (CFS), dental cavities (caries), kidney stones, and skin damage.
Instead of drinking green tea, some people apply green tea bags to their skin to soothe sunburn and prevent skin cancer due to sun exposure. Green tea bags are also used to decrease puffiness under the eyes, as a compress for tired eyes or headache, and to stop gums from bleeding after a tooth is pulled.
Green tea in candy is used for gum disease.
Do not confuse green tea with oolong tea or black tea. Oolong tea and black tea are made from the same plant leaves used to make green tea, but they are prepared differently and have different medicinal effects. Green tea is not fermented at all. Oolong tea is partially fermented, and black tea is fully fermented.
Jun 04, 2011 @ 00:41:42
Hi Terri, I am waiting for my book but have started the diet by reading the overview. Just wanted to know if Protein shakes are allowed on the diet. Also are you allowed trim milk in coffee? Thanks
Jun 04, 2011 @ 10:52:41
Hi Yvonne! Well, “technically” no…they are not included BUT if you follow the menus in the book they only add up to about 800-900 calories a day which is really low so I recommend people supplement with something like a protein shake in the mornings. I suggest using “whey isolate protein powder” and not just whey protein – it won’t cause cramping and of course just make sure the sugar grams are as low as possible!
Re: Milk It’s only mentioned on pg. 86 of the book, which is cycle 3. Probiotics, Dairy and Dairy substitutes: 1 -2 servings a day or 1 cup of unsweetened almond milk = 1 serving
According to this video, FF creamer / half & half is OK. For folks who can’t find either, or if you don’t like the HFCS and other ingredients in the FF creamer, try a little nonfat dry milk powder in your coffee instead. Unfortunately on some of these things the Dr. says one thing in the book and then later will say something else in a video or radio show which makes the information confusing!
Jun 05, 2011 @ 02:53:05
Hi there everyone. You know it is 17 days until my birthday. I am turning 46. I have put on 10kg (22lb) in the last 4 years, making me 176lb. I would love to be 143lb. That is my best weight and the weight I feel most confident at. I have been so inspired by the Dr Phil show, and this blog. I walk 10,000 + steps everyday and I never lose the weight. I have ordered the book, but I am just gonna take your advice and the other information I can find and get started straight away. Thanks for your inspiration everyone. I’ll stay in touch and let you all know what I get up to.
Jun 05, 2011 @ 18:13:55
You’re doing a great job! Keep it up and you’ll get there…no doubt about it!
Jun 14, 2011 @ 06:56:45
Can we use fat free half and half for coffee in the morning
Jun 14, 2011 @ 11:59:54
Yes Jessica you can.
According to this video, FF creamer / half & half is OK. For folks who can’t find either, or if you don’t like the HFCS and other ingredients in the FF creamer, try a little nonfat dry milk powder in your coffee instead.
Jun 21, 2011 @ 12:26:40
I am on C1D5 and I have lost 4 lbs so far. My goal is to lose 80 and so far I have been doing great.
Jun 21, 2011 @ 12:29:58
Is it ok to just use lemon juice instead of squeezing lemons
Jun 27, 2011 @ 19:01:54
Officially started today. So glad I spent the last 4 hours reading the blogs. I have learned so much. Reading all of the entries make it feel like I am part of a club and I have someone I can talk to. My only struggle is that I only like lettuce and mushrooms as Vegetables. So I am hoping this will work.
Aug 01, 2011 @ 17:40:51
Hi everyone,
I just started the 14 day diet. So far I had
hot water with tea
breakfast
green tea
scrambled eggs
plum
Snack
peach
Lunch
grilled chicken
lettuce
1 teaspoon olive oil
tea
dinner
tea
fish
lots of veggies
water through the day.
Still hungry so I had the greek yogurt. Was that a mistake. I have the book and didnt mention I can have it for a snack. greek was only mentioned for breakfast instead of having eggs. Is that right? Book was confusing to me, thanks
Aug 06, 2011 @ 05:55:27
Just started this…. using the diet nestea green tea… is this okay?
Also should I be avoiding cheese? Reduced fat mozz. string cheese? And also questioning Kens Healthy Options Oil & Vin. dressing. I am one of those people that neeeeeed to have everything planned everyday, or else. Also, when you are getting munchy in the after noon, what is a quick but healthy snack??
Thank You
Aug 06, 2011 @ 13:09:56
Sara, there are many suggestions on the Facebook site (click on the “Scales with Feet”) Yes, any green tea without sugar is okay…but it can deplete you of iron and cause anemia so be sure to take a multivitamin. I’m not sure about the dressing..you can have a tbls of oil a day so if you use that as your dressing it might be okay…if it’s olive oil… no string cheese until Cycle 3. Do you have the book? You really need it…I know someone is giving one away on the Facebook site … you may want to check that out.
I’m at a convention and will be back next week so my answers must be short.
Aug 09, 2011 @ 09:33:43
C1D2… Just have a few questions. Can I take a green tea supplement and will it have the same results as drinking green tea?
Why does the doctor recommend taking Flintstones vitamins?? Is he kidding?!? Do they have better benefits?
Aug 09, 2011 @ 15:34:41
Yes you can take the supplements and I’m not sure why he recommends the Flintstones except I think most people who aren’t currently taking vitamins are more likely to take a chewable that tastes good as opposed to a pill they have to swallow. If you have something else, take it…or if you prefer something else, use it. Just don’t skip this step as drinking green tea can cause anemia in some people and low energy as it depletes iron. Many use the green tea supplements instead of drinking the green tea!
Aug 10, 2011 @ 08:47:06
Hi I am stuck at the same weight for about a week now – I just started cycle 2. Can someone tell me how to get out of the rut to start losing again. Thank you.
Toni
Aug 10, 2011 @ 14:50:20
Can you have tomato sauce.. No salt added?
Aug 10, 2011 @ 15:37:27
Yes you can use tomato sauce Roxana! No problem! The low salt or no salt added is better of course…to “replace” the salt you can add lemon or basil to the tomato sauce (a LOT of basil) it makes a huge difference.
Aug 10, 2011 @ 15:47:39
Toni, first it is very common for your weight to stay the same for a week or more….your body is adjusting to what you’ve already lost. Without this “step” when you start eating “regularly” again you would gain all the weight you lost back immediately….with this diet that won’t happen if you stay on it and do it right. Also, remember, this isn’t a fad or quick weight loss diet. This is a long term lifestyle plan.
Did you measure as I’ve suggested? Most people lose more inches in cycle 2 than pounds. We get so used to the instant gratification of the scale in cycle 1 but that’s because you are primarily losing water weight at first…you are not going to get immediate gratification every time you get on the scale. I suggest you weigh less often. You must learn to lose and maintain your weight by doing the right things and not get so hung up on a number on the scale. All that’s going to do is get you discouraged and could cause you to give up….Also many don’t lose for a week or two and then suddenly lose 3-5 pounds. Very common….if you stay on the plan as written you will lose again without doing anything “special” but you can also read the blog post on “Plateaus”…(type Plateau in the search window) for more help and suggestions….stick with it, the weight will come off but you MUST be patient! I promise…it will work! (Oh and measure!)
Aug 10, 2011 @ 16:14:16
One more question.. What about a bit if honey with my
Green tea?
Aug 10, 2011 @ 16:27:00
Technically No, we are not supposed to have any honey…it’s very high on the glycemic index. How about using agave? It’s bettter for you and is acceptable on all Cycles….some do use honey of course…so it’s a choice depending on how close you want to stick to the diet as it’s written. But if you want to stick strictly to the diet then no honey.
BUT, if that’s a “cheat” you are willing to make then go ahead and use it but I’d use as little as possible. It’s high on the glycemic index so it could cause you to feel more hungry, sooner because it raises your blood sugar and then when it drops suddenly you crave more or you feel hungry. But if you can work around that then it’s your choice but use as little as possible.
Aug 14, 2011 @ 10:29:19
Hello! I was wondering if your cook books are The 17 day diet recipes only… Thanks!
Aug 14, 2011 @ 17:18:13
Yes but of course they can be used for any low carb diet….in fact they would definitely be appropriate for ANY diet…..low carb, low calorie, low fat…or in fact for anyone not dieting that just wants to make their kitchen a healthier environment for their family. We’ve never had a complaint and people love them! We do put a lot of work into them. The recipes are listed by cycles but if you have additional questions or if you’re not on this diet and would like to know how to “apply” them or what the cycles mean let me know and I’ll help you. I did email you a sample list of some of the recipes.
Aug 23, 2011 @ 11:26:49
Can you use I can’t believe it’s not butter spray on eggs or anything? Thanks for your help. Not sure, Budsis
Aug 23, 2011 @ 11:39:13
Yes using “spray” oils and butter are fine….you can also have Salsa and any other condiments just use in moderation of course!
Sep 11, 2011 @ 10:39:12
I’m planning to start tomorrow and am super nervous! I’ve done low carb before and felt awful. Now I’m a teacher commuting 55miles each way and with two kids, and I hope I can do this diet and not be grumpy and miserable! Can you have splenda in your green tea? I had a hard time finding plain green tea in bottles that I could just add truvia to. Wish me luck!!
Sep 12, 2011 @ 12:54:52
Hi, I am just getting ready to start, reading/planning shopping etc. The one thing I have the hardest time with is water! Can we use Crystal Light in our water?? or if not can I had Real Lemon(liquid lemon) to the water to get through it?
Sep 12, 2011 @ 13:12:10
Yes you can. It’s not the “best” thing (they often do have sodium and of course artificial sweeteners unless you can find a brand made with Truvia) You should drink EXTRA water according to the Dr. if you drink these or diet soft drinks. He calls them “negative water”…but my personal opinion, as a person who does NOT like water (there, I said it!) if that’s the only way you can get that much water in you it’s better than skipping the water. You might also make a “watery” version of the drink.
The artificial sweeteners could slow your weight loss and of course the sodium will also cause you to lose less but it’s a choice you will have to make for yourself. Yes you can have Real Lemon (is that what you’re using in the morning for your lemon water?) and Truvia or Stevia for sweetening…
Sep 12, 2011 @ 13:15:52
No splenda…as you know from the book no artificial sweeteners only Stevia and Truvia or Agave. You CAN have the artificial sweeteners of course, that is your choice, but they will slow down your loss slightly. I use the Truvia in my lemon water and in the tea. Be careful of the tea. IF you are anemic or have iron issues do not use it…if you start feeling low energy, stop drinking it. It does deplete some of iron to the point of anemia (he should have mentioned this in the book as a few people have become sick from it) So if you can’t drink it or tolerate it, don’t. Just skip it.
Sep 12, 2011 @ 16:19:02
Need to get hold of this book and my country is not in the country list. How do i go about it. I want to give this a trial.
Sep 12, 2011 @ 16:26:01
How do i get started? Just confused.
Sep 12, 2011 @ 17:17:06
Read the OVERVIEW and the Grocery list, then by the book and read it. It will explain the diet in detail..
Sep 12, 2011 @ 17:17:35
You can order the book through Amazon.com
Sep 13, 2011 @ 16:53:21
I just got the book and plan on reading it this week-end. I am excited. Sure hope it works!
Sep 14, 2011 @ 14:49:08
It will work….all diets will work…if you stay on them! Make sure to take the recommended vitamin especially if you drink green tea as it can deplete you of iron and some have become anemic. Also make sure whatever yogurt you choose, the type with fruit in it, does not have more than 9 grams of sugar. If you are using “plain” use the Greek, non fat and either use like or in place of sour cream or add sugar free jam or jelly to it or your own fruit and sweetener like Truvia.
If you use the menus in the book you should be sure to supplement with lots of food off the “Freebies” lists for your cycle. More protein and vegetables especially. You should get at least between 200-400 calories a day additional to what’s in the menus. Then you’ll be at about 1200 calories a day. Or if you are planning a more strenuous workout you could make a smoothie or protein shake prior to working out.
Sep 15, 2011 @ 04:39:50
Still unclear. Does green tea versus decaf green tea make a difference. I am very sensitive to caffeine. Day 11 now. Lost 7 pounds and been on weight loss stall for three days. Thank you for your posts.
Sep 18, 2011 @ 18:41:34
You can have either regular or decaf green tea. Either is fine or you can take the green tea supplements if you prefer or just don’t drink it if it doesn’t agree with you.
Sep 20, 2011 @ 17:15:16
Just started the 17 day diet today. The only question I have is can I use a little unsweetened almond milk in my smoothie which contains yogurt and mixed berries?
Thanks
Sep 20, 2011 @ 17:44:10
Kim you may also want to participate on our Facebook site here: http://www.facebook.com/pages/17-DAY-DIET/154431391270315 Yes, but of course use as little as possible. A few more “newbie” tips that might help!
First make sure the yogurt you use has 9 grams or less of sugar per serving. It may contain fruit (doesn’t count for your fruit for the day) BUT if you get plain yogurt – to use in place of sour cream or to add your own fruit or sugar free jelly or jam, then get non fat Greek style.
Also, if you use the menus in the book they are too low in calories if used alone. You must supplement them with foods off the freebies list. You can have as much as you want, any time you want from the list on your cycle. You should NEVER be hungry. If you are – EAT just make sure you’re eating something that’s allowed on your cycle.
Make sure to take a multivitamin as suggested in the book. Green Tea can deplete you of iron. If you have any problems with iron you should not drink the tea….but if you do be cautious. If you begin to feel lethargic then stop drinking it and see if you feel better. But definitetly take the multivitamin.
Supplement the menus by at least 200-400 calories a day. As long as you are eating the foods allowed on your cycle you’re okay.
Eat fruit 8 hours before bed whenever that it. I don’t go to bed until 2:00AM or so so I can eat fruit until about 6:00 PM.
I was a participant on the diet on The Doctors Show. You can read more about me under “About Me” on the blog! I’m glad you’re here…you will be successful if you stick with it! I promise you…please feel free to ask any questions!
Sep 24, 2011 @ 04:58:12
hi, i just started this diet. is it ok to use 1 slice of ff cheese in my eggs every day?Can u have turkey meatballs in cycle 1?
Sep 24, 2011 @ 04:59:21
what about turkey chili?
Sep 24, 2011 @ 11:48:30
Turkey chili you make yourself is okay…but not store bought. There are several wonderful recipes in the cookbooks. If you are on Cycle 1 then Cookbook 1 would be good!
Here is our FACEBOOK SITE: http://www.facebook.com/pages/17-DAY-DIET/154431391270315
If you look on the blog under RECIPES and in the comments there may be some there or look on the Facebook site under DISCUSSIONS…but be careful with others recipes posted online. People post things saying they are good for certain cycles and they aren’t! So be very careful. I go over the cookbooks with a fine tooth comb to make sure they are compliant with the cycles…between the first two books there are over 275 recipes! We’ve never had one returned (It comes to your email as a PDF file) or anyone ask for a refund. If you go to the Facebook site many there have purchased it and I’m sure would be happy to tell you how much they love it! It has a search feature so it’s easy to find what you need. Recipes are also listed by Cycles – all Cycle 1′s are of course good for Cycles 1, 2 3 and 4, all Cycle 2′s are good for Cycles 2, 3 and 4 and so on. I review all the recipes carefully to meet the cycles. I know there are recipes on line too but I’m shocked to read how many recipes are listed for Cycle 1 for instance that to NOT comply with the diet so you really have to be careful with what you make UNLESS you follow the cookbook!
I was on the Dr.’s show as a participant on the diet and started writing the blog in early December. It became very popular and as people began to create recipes they would get lost all over the place. We couldn’t find what we needed, when we needed it! So they suggested I do the cookbook – it’s been a blessing really! I’m VERY proud of both books and my husband and I put a lot of hard work into them. Some of the recipes in Cookbook 1 are on the blog and in the comments and some are in Cookbook 2.
Some recipes include:
Breakfast Blueberry Cobbler
Buffalo Chicken Salad with Blue Cheese Dressing
Butterflied Rosemary Lemon Chicken
Caramelized Scallops
Carrot Chips
Vegetable Chips
Lemon Chicken Soup
Granola with Cherries and Almonds
Grilled Chicken with Dijon and Meyer Lemon
Cheesecake Stuffed Strawberries
Chicken & Spinach Soup with Fresh Pesto
Grilled Portobello Mushrooms
Grilled Halibut with Fennel, Orange, Red onions and oregano
LOTS of Salmon recipes; Grilled Salmon with Citrus Salsa Verde
Italian Turkey Cutlet Rolls
Stuffed Peppers
Turkey Bacon
Lonnie and Barbs Sausage (good for all cycles)
Stuffed Pepper Soup
Garlic Chicken
Chicken, Charred Tomato and Broccoli Salad
Crockpot White Chili with Chicken (and about 5 or 6 other crockpot recipes)
Fake Shake and Bake Chicken
Pad Thai
Peppered Pork Tenderloin
Picante Chicken
Potato Crust Vegetable Pizza
Cauliflower Crust Pizza
Eggplant Pizza
BTW I’m not a “chef” in the kitchen either…in fact I’m a beginner cook (at 58!!?) and these are all pretty easy to make with basic kitchen equipment. No fancy ingredients, no fancy kitchen tools, no fancy hard to do procedures…
Sep 24, 2011 @ 11:52:25
Hi Sharon and welcome! You should limit cheese…in fact the dr. said this to me once ‘Cheese is a condiment, NOT an ingredient!” So you should have no more than a tbls or two at the most on cycles one and two! Turkey meatballs ONLY if you make them yourself. The store bought ones often contain dark meat, bread crumbs and other ingredients that are not allowed!
Here are some more “newbie” tips that might help you:
First make sure the yogurt you use has 9 grams or less of sugar per serving. It may contain fruit (doesn’t count for your fruit for the day) BUT if you get plain yogurt – to use in place of sour cream or to add your own fruit or sugar free jelly or jam, then get non fat Greek style.
Also, if you use the menus in the book they are too low in calories if used alone. You must supplement them with foods off the freebies list. You can have as much as you want, any time you want from the list on your cycle. You should NEVER be hungry. If you are – EAT just make sure you’re eating something that’s allowed on your cycle. I really encourage people to make their own menus. The ones in the book are not very good and most people end up going off the diet too quickly. Use the food lists and the cookbooks and make up your own menus! This way you’re not getting bored and can stay on the diet longer!
Make sure to take a multivitamin as suggested in the book. Green Tea can deplete you of iron. If you have any problems with iron you should not drink the tea….but if you do be cautious. If you begin to feel lethargic then stop drinking it and see if you feel better. But definitetly take the multivitamin.
Supplement the menus by at least 200-400 calories a day. As long as you are eating the foods allowed on your cycle you’re okay.
Eat fruit 8 hours before bed whenever that it. I don’t go to bed until 2:00AM or so so I can eat fruit until about 6:00 PM.
I was a participant on the diet on The Doctors Show. You can read more about me under “About Me” on the blog! I’m glad you’re here…you will be successful if you stick with it! I promise you
Sep 26, 2011 @ 16:16:56
If you are allowed a whey protein smoothie can you use skim milk? or do I need to use water – I dont feel like a little thing of yogart would make enough.
Sep 26, 2011 @ 16:19:06
I use water…You really don’t need the milk if you use yogurt and why have the extra calories if you don’t have to!?!?! I use yogurt, protein powder, ice, water and sweetener and usually have to use the water to make it less thick.
Oct 06, 2011 @ 11:37:36
The book doesn’t mention if you can drink any sugar free drink. Only mentions diet soda which I am not a fan of. Can you drink Vitamin water Zero or any other sugar free drinks like sugar free kool aid. All I saw was Water, diet soda, and green tea. Also what about fat free or low fat milk? Doesn’t mention it other then the probiotic kind for the proboiotic factor. What if I want to it in something else like a recipe??? Thanks!!!!! Jen
Oct 07, 2011 @ 05:49:03
Terri, I’m trying to get myself ready to start on mon. I know we are suppose to drink lemon & water but I have stomach problems and it causes pain to drink it. Could I leave that out?
Oct 07, 2011 @ 19:49:22
started Oct 9th, love the program…havn’t missed ANYTHING ! my top problem was always portions…and this diet doesn’t care how much cleansing veg’s or listed protein i eat. i’ve noticed now that i have lost 11# on my now 12th day, that i am eating less and less even tho i could have more. in fact, eating all the food and drinking all the water, the tea and the lemon water, leaves little room for overeating!! made a nice turkey meatloaf (onion, celery, spices) & left overs morphed into: turkey taco salad and finally turkey chili. All from 1.2# of ground turkey ! everything was “by the book” and so delicious i could hardly believe it was all “legal!” thank you dr. mike….looking forward to Cycle 2 soon….and making the cookies! be a nice quickie for breakfast and snack during the cycle. oh, could you have the comments reversed dated with the latest at the top? i’ve spent 2 hours online reading thru and enjoyed them but i’m a creature of habit and would like to go to the newest at the top. thank you terri for this great place to find info and listen to others on this diet.
Oct 07, 2011 @ 19:51:48
oops, that’s i started Oct 3rd….sorry about that….glad i reread my own note !
Oct 09, 2011 @ 14:24:49
Hi Paula and welcome! You might also want to check out the Facebook site (click on the scales with feet on them) a lot of people participate daily there.
The cookbooks are also a great asset. I use mine every day. All the recipes are listed by cycles. and searchable.
I was on the Dr.’s show as a participant on the diet and started writing the blog in early December. It became very popular and as people began to create recipes they would get lost all over the place. We couldn’t find what we needed, when we needed it! So they suggested I do the cookbook – it’s been a blessing really! I’m VERY proud of both books and my husband and I put a lot of hard work into them. I think they make it easy to stay on the plan even when you’re not “dieting” but just want to maintain! Let me know if you have any more questions….Also make sure your yogurt does not have more than 9 grams of sugar each.
Some recipes include:
Breakfast Blueberry Cobbler
Buffalo Chicken Salad with Blue Cheese Dressing
Butterflied Rosemary Lemon Chicken
Caramelized Scallops
Carrot Chips
Vegetable Chips
Lemon Chicken Soup
Granola with Cherries and Almonds
Grilled Chicken with Dijon and Meyer Lemon
Cheesecake Stuffed Strawberries
Chicken & Spinach Soup with Fresh Pesto
Grilled Portobello Mushrooms
Grilled Halibut with Fennel, Orange, Red onions and oregano
LOTS of Salmon recipes; Grilled Salmon with Citrus Salsa Verde
Italian Turkey Cutlet Rolls
Stuffed Peppers
Turkey Bacon
Lonnie and Barbs Sausage (good for all cycles)
Stuffed Pepper Soup
Garlic Chicken
Chicken, Charred Tomato and Broccoli Salad
Crockpot White Chili with Chicken (and about 5 or 6 other crockpot recipes)
Fake Shake and Bake Chicken
Pad Thai
Peppered Pork Tenderloin
Picante Chicken
Potato Crust Vegetable Pizza
Cauliflower Crust Pizza
Eggplant Pizza
Oct 09, 2011 @ 14:27:08
Paula here is the typical “newbie” information I send out…you may already know all of this but just in case I’m reposting it for you! The posts should be the most current first…. I’m not sure how or why you would be reading them in another order? Weird….we have almost 1,000 recipes in all three books!
First make sure the yogurt you use has 9 grams or less of sugar per serving. It may contain fruit (doesn’t count for your fruit for the day) BUT if you get plain yogurt – to use in place of sour cream or to add your own fruit or sugar free jelly or jam, then get non fat Greek style.
Also, if you use the menus in the book they are too low in calories if used alone. You must supplement them with foods off the freebies list. You can have as much as you want, any time you want from the list on your cycle. You should NEVER be hungry. If you are – EAT just make sure you’re eating something that’s allowed on your cycle.
Make sure to take a multivitamin as suggested in the book. Green Tea can deplete you of iron. If you have any problems with iron you should not drink the tea….but if you do be cautious. If you begin to feel lethargic then stop drinking it and see if you feel better. But definitetly take the multivitamin.
Supplement the menus by at least 200-400 calories a day. As long as you are eating the foods allowed on your cycle you’re okay.
Eat fruit 8 hours before bed whenever that it. I don’t go to bed until 2:00AM or so so I can eat fruit until about 6:00 PM.
I was a participant on the diet on The Doctors Show. You can read more about me under “About Me” on the blog! I’m glad you’re here…you will be successful if you stick with it! I promise you
Oct 09, 2011 @ 14:29:45
Yes you can leave it out. It helps with disgestion and although I have ulcers and suffer acid reflex I was surprised to find that after having the lemon water both stomach ailments are actualy better. So if you are assuming it may not work for you I’d still suggest you try it. But if you don’t want to drink it you don’t have to. I remember the first glass I had thinking my stomach would explode afterwards but it was fine! Shocking! Anyway I look forward to it now … but do what’s best for you of course!
Oct 09, 2011 @ 14:33:37
Yes you can drink the others just make sure you drink additional water if they contain any artificial sweeteners (see “negative water” in the book). I would definitely stay away from something like sugar free kool aid. You can have cyrstal light but again in moderstion because of all the artificial sweeteners which we’re supposed to avoid. No milk until Cycle 3. Some people might skip a yogurt and use almond or soy milk (6 oz) that day and take a probiotic supplement that day in place of eating the yogurt so I guess you could choose to do that.
Oct 17, 2011 @ 10:13:31
Hi Terri,
Thanks for starting this blog….the info and tips are great…please keep them coming. I’m a newbie…today is day 5. I am truly keeping it tight sticking to the plan. Feeling a little hungry but working through…a little frustrated since I weighed myself this morning to see the scale up by a few ounces. I do work out an hour daily doing intense cardio. Any thoughts? Thanks, Rita
Oct 17, 2011 @ 15:12:24
Hi Rita…I started this blog when I was a participant on the diet on The Doctors Show. Here are some more newbie tips:
First make sure the yogurt you use has 9 grams or less of sugar per serving. It may contain fruit (doesn’t count for your fruit for the day) BUT if you get plain yogurt – to use in place of sour cream or to add your own fruit or sugar free jelly or jam, then get non fat Greek style.
Also, if you use the menus in the book they are too low in calories if used alone. You must supplement them with foods off the freebies list. You can have as much as you want, any time you want from the list on your cycle. You should NEVER be hungry. If you are – EAT just make sure you’re eating something that’s allowed on your cycle.
Make sure to take a multivitamin as suggested in the book. Green Tea can deplete you of iron. If you have any problems with iron you should not drink the tea….but if you do be cautious. If you begin to feel lethargic then stop drinking it and see if you feel better. But definitetly take the multivitamin.
Supplement the menus by at least 200-400 calories a day. As long as you are eating the foods allowed on your cycle you’re okay.
Eat fruit 8 hours before bed whenever that it. I don’t go to bed until 2:00AM or so so I can eat fruit until about 6:00 PM.
Here is our FACEBOOK SITE: http://www.facebook.com/pages/17-DAY-DIET/154431391270315
We’d love for you to check out the site and get questions answered anytime!
Oct 17, 2011 @ 15:20:08
Rita…you know in Cycle 1 you are only supposed to exercise about 30 minutes a day or 17 minutes twice a day. Most of the weight loss in the first Cycle is water….First why are you weighing so often!!! If those little ups and downs bother you you should not weigh as often. Our bodies will naturally go up and down anywhere from 1 to 3 pounds a day. It’s natural.
You can’t compare numbers…there’s no meaning to it. Okay, let’s say I told you I lost 25 lbs last week. What does that mean to you? Does that mean YOU should lose 25 lbs?
What if I then told you that my starting weight was 500 lbs? So, 25 lbs is 5% of my body weight. So, if you’re starting weight was 150 then the same loss in a week would be 7.5 lbs percentage wise! Most people lose approximately 3-4% the first week but even that varies depending on age, activity level, how healthy an eater you were before the diet…lots of variables to take into consideration.
You can read the post: “Share but Don’t Compare” on the blog for more explanation… http://tksinclair.com/
Most people lose 3-4% of their body weight the first time around on the first cycle. It can vary depending on age, activity level, starting weight, goal weight and various other factors like how healthy of an eater you were prior to starting the diet. Height is also a HUGE factor. Those under 5′ 2″ seem to lose much slower (less muscle mass) Anyone who wants to figure out their % of wt loss. Take your starting weight, let’s use 168 lbs as an example. subtract your current wt eg 158. Equals 10 lbs, now divide that back into your starting weight and multiply by 100. Equals 5.95 %. You can fill your own numbers into the formula to get your own %.
Oct 18, 2011 @ 11:15:15
Thanks Terri! You’re right…going to put the scale away for a while (although the book does say to weigh-in every few days). I think once a week is good enough for me. Not going to make a number define me or the type of day I’m going to have.
Oct 19, 2011 @ 17:36:17
hi terri – all is well after 24 days. i’m on cycle 2 now and have so many choices with me creating the accelerate daily diet. i didn’t mind using the 17 day diet in the book – in fact, i loved it because it was easy and i didn’t have to think about what i was going to eat. now i have so many ideas it’s like i’m a diet chef! from dr. oz’ show i copped a quick meal – my 1/2 c of cottage cheese to which was added salza to change up the taste. i also added some romaine lettuce and it was delicious. something different makes the difference. i made the power cookies and i eat one of them four different times per week. 2 breakfasts, and two snacks!! i do look forward to them-i even weighed them to see which are the heaviest but since you make them in a batch of 18, they are all so evenly made. i’m down another 5# today for a total of 17# total in 24 days. i walked 1 mile 3x per week, and go to easy yoga 2x week for 1 hr each session. colder weather will send me to my treadmill, but i’m so happy !
Oct 19, 2011 @ 17:54:20
FANTASTIC Paula! You are doing outstanding! Good for you…keep it up~ I don’t make his cookie – I use my own (recipe in cookbook 2) because it’s a lot easier to make and MUCH less expensive! Remember you can eat anything off the Freebies list, 24/7 in any amounts so you should never be hungry. I don’t suggest just using the menus in the book. I find them boring and no one could follow them for very long without getting bored! Of course I use the cookbooks almost every day!
You’re doing a great job…remember as long as you don’t quit..you will not fail. You may have a bad day but that’s all just part of life!
Oct 19, 2011 @ 17:56:32
I think weighing every few days is great if you’re not on the plan…but if you’re on the plan, eating what you should and exercising there is no reason you have to continue to weigh. Especially if the little ups and downs determine your mood for the day! It’s silly! If you are not on the plan and eating “mainstream” then you should weigh more often to keep track = so you don’t gain a few pounds without even noticing it! (that happens you know)
Nov 03, 2011 @ 19:06:21
hi terri – i’m still doing great. after finishing cycle 2, i decided to do it over again as i really enjoyed everything allowed on program. tonight i had the shrimp salad, one of my fav’s and a side of a small baked sweet potato. yes, the receipes could get boring, but i’ve found ways to mix them up with spices, salsa and my own prepared marina sauce made with tomatoes i’ve grew this year. it makes a very nice baked italian chicken breast marina spiced with mrs. dash and italian seasoning, plus garlic. i’m down 21# and will go onto cycle 3 in 11 days. i’ve already checked out the new allowed foods -looking forward to avocados, pistachio nuts and babybell low fat cheese, pumpernickel bread, and popcorn light! thank you for the support this blog gives me when i see how great everyone is doing. i’m down from a tight 14 jeans to a loose 12. this program has become my preferred way of eating, and i will always have the knowledge to keep my weight down. with only 19# to go, i’m thrilled!
Nov 04, 2011 @ 07:16:51
Just make sure to watch the portions in Cycle 3…added foods are great..but in that cycles PORTIONS are the key! You are doing an outstanding job! I really suggest the cookbooks…Cookbook 3 has a ton of dessert options for Cycle 3…but these are not DIET recipes and will be used in your maintenance forever and always. I couldn’t live without mine and I’m convinced that’s what has kept the weight I’ve lost off for over a year!
Nov 05, 2011 @ 14:38:47
I am on c1d13 and so far have lost 9.4 pds.
Nov 08, 2011 @ 21:28:03
I have a question about the cookbooks Teri. I just found out that there is a problem with my PayPal account… I can not use it ATM. Is there a way I can donate for the cookbooks directly? Thanks
Nov 09, 2011 @ 09:12:30
Hi Holly;
Yes, but — can you do me a favor?
) and he’ll set you up!
Send this request to “The Husband” at 51daychallenge@gmail.com . It just got too much for me to handle this, the Facebook site, write posts and answer emails and questions so he handles all the cookbook stuff. But I think he’s helped others with this same type probem so write him (tell him I asked you to!
Thanks!
Nov 09, 2011 @ 09:14:31
Keep it up Susan…the weight loss will slow down in Cycle 2 but many lose more inches than pounds in that cycle so I really suggest if the numbers keep you motivated that you take your measurements when you get to cycle 2, if not before!
Nov 10, 2011 @ 14:15:52
Nov. 10, 2011
Hi Terri, I just now heard about this 17 day diet. Where Have I been? I have been on it for 3 days. Yahoo. But I love sugar, chocolate, popcorn, brownies. You name it, if it is sugar I eat it. I started this and have been faithful, and the whole sugar craving is totally gone. This is amazing. I love it. I am getting my friends to try it. I think I got the wrong yogurt. It was Greek, but it is 230 cal for 8 oz. But it sure tastes like the ice cream I love, when I put the blueberries and sugar-free jam in it. Just wondering if I can have nuts in this first cycle.
Nov 10, 2011 @ 15:46:36
Actually this diet has nothing to do with calories or carbs or fat. It has more to do with foods low on the glycemix index..so the calories in your yogurt are not as important as the grams of sugar. No nuts until the 3rd cycle and even then in very limited amounts. YOu may want to read this blog post on foods you’ve been led by marketing people to think are healthy when in fact they aren’t. NUTS are one of those foods…they are more than 50% fat…which far outweighs the small benefit they provide. http://tksinclair.com/?p=602
Do not use a yogurt that is more than 9 grams of sugar per serving. Most non fat yogurts (and foods for that matter) are VERY high in sugar which is why all these “non fat” foods are making people fatter and fatter. They replace the taste missing from the fat with sugar….so non fat foods are very dangerous not to mention filled with chemicals which force your liver to work harder to break down the chemicals and not burning your stored fat.
Here are just a couple of newbie tips you should read before you continue.. First make sure the yogurt you use has 9 grams or less of sugar per serving. It may contain fruit (doesn’t count for your fruit for the day) BUT if you get plain yogurt – to use in place of sour cream or to add your own fruit or sugar free jelly or jam, then get non fat Greek style.
Also, if you use the menus in the book they are too low in calories if used alone. You must supplement them with foods off the freebies list. You can have as much as you want, any time you want from the list on your cycle. You should NEVER be hungry. If you are – EAT just make sure you’re eating something that’s allowed on your cycle.
Make sure to take a multivitamin as suggested in the book. Green Tea can deplete you of iron. If you have any problems with iron you should not drink the tea….but if you do be cautious. If you begin to feel lethargic then stop drinking it and see if you feel better. But definitetly take the multivitamin.
Supplement the menus by at least 200-400 calories a day. As long as you are eating the foods allowed on your cycle you’re okay.
Eat fruit 8 hours before bed whenever that it. I don’t go to bed until 2:00AM or so so I can eat fruit until about 6:00 PM.
I was a participant on the diet on The Doctors Show. You can read more about me under “About Me” on the blog! I’m glad you’re here…you will be successful if you stick with it! I promise you.
One more thing about losing…the weight you lose at first is mostly water weight so the loss will slow down of course…it’s a one time only loss and not FAT..just water…most people lose about 3-5% of their total body weight in the first cycle and about 1-3% in the subsequent cycles.
You can’t compare numbers…there’s no meaning to it. Okay, let’s say I told you I lost 25 lbs last week. What does that mean to you? Does that mean YOU should lose 25 lbs?
What if I then told you that my starting weight was 500 lbs? So, 25 lbs is 5% of my body weight. So, if you’re starting weight was 150 then the same loss in a week would be 7.5 lbs percentage wise! Most people lose approximately 3-4% the first week but even that varies depending on age, activity level, how healthy an eater you were before the diet…lots of variables to take into consideration.
You can read the post: “Share but Don’t Compare” on the blog for more explanation… http://tksinclair.com/
Anyone who wants to figure out their % of wt loss. Take your starting weight eg 168. subtract your current wt eg 158. Equals 10 lbs, now divide that back into your starting weight and multiply by 100. Equals 5.95 %.
Nov 10, 2011 @ 15:49:31
Make sure if you add the berries to the yogurt you count it as your fruit. If you buy yogurt with the fruit already in it you don’t count it towards your fruit..there’s not enough fruit in those to worry about it….OR use either the jam or the berries…You can freeze the yogurt but if you do take a probiotic supplement. Although most or some of the probiotics will survive freezing there’s no way to tell if they do or if so how many do. So you should take a supplement…if you heat the yogurt for cooking you kill off the probiotics so definitely take a supplement in that case and it’s good to take one if you freeze your own yogurt.
Nov 10, 2011 @ 22:15:42
Hi Terri,
Just wanted to thank you for all the informative information. I am still waiting for my book. But I checked that Greek plain yogurt and you were right, it is full of fat, 18g and the sugar is only 8g. It was very deceiving. So it is going down the sink. And I didn’t think about the vitamin, since I am eating so much better. And that was very informative about the green tea and the effect on iron. Thanks again.
Nov 11, 2011 @ 12:15:04
Well, actually if it’s only 8 grams of sugar..then it’s fine! That’s no problem at all…you can see how many grams of sugar the non fat is…but ideally you want LOW FAT and under 9 grams of sugar per serving.
Nov 11, 2011 @ 20:32:11
Hi Terri, Regarding the Greek yogurt, plain, I forgot to mention that it has 230 cal. per 8 oz serving plus the 18g fat and 8g sugar. It is confusing to me about the calories. But I read that you said not to worry about the calories, is that right? So, any way, I went and bought similar yogurt with 130 cal per 8oz and low fat and low sugar. I am still sticking with this program, and it has been 4 days now. Is it normal to feel so full all the time? I feel like I can’t eat very much. I even feel so full in the morning. I am drinking all the water, too. I don’t even want to eat any junk food. This is such a strange feeling. Before, I was snacking everytime I went to the kitchen. Thanks for all your great comments and observations.
Dec 14, 2011 @ 08:07:26
Is sugar free pudding and jello allowed?
Dec 14, 2011 @ 14:32:30
Heather, the dr has given conflicting advice on this. ON one hand he says “no” because of the artificial sweeteners – which WILL slow down your weight loss…but I think occasionally having the jello on any cycle is okay. Just don’t overdo it. Re: Pudding I would not have that on any cycle except cycle 3 or maintanence. It does have calories but you could use it in place of other snacks, ie Skinny Cow, in cycle 3.
Dec 29, 2011 @ 06:07:49
I was starting today however I had a bowl of high fiber oatmeal before I found your site. I will use today to prepare myself, my fridge and my pantry for the journey. Thank you for your site. It looks great!
Dec 29, 2011 @ 16:32:16
That’s okay…don’t “throw” today away because of that!!!! This is IMPORTANT and one thing we all need to rethink!
Remember, you can’t just keep starting over everytime you mess up. You’ll never have 17 days (or 51 or 60 or 100) where there are no birthdays or holidays or events…so those “bad days” and “cheats” are still all part of the diet…you really need to try to wrap your head around this or you’ll never stay on track and you’ll struggle with this forever!!!
ALL DIETS WORK….it’s staying on them that matters…as much if not MORE than what’s on your plate.
So don’t beat yourself up…just know this is part of weight loss…try not to BINGE…but there will be bad days..there will be events…there will be holidays…there are cupcakes around every corner and sometimes let’s face it…we’re going to indulge..but you YOU DON’T START OVER – it’s all continuous…you just accept that’s part of the diet…stay off the scale a day or so and that’s the end of it. PLEASE TRY TO REMEMBER THIS:
Successful dieting is not AVOIDING these things but learning to successfully recover from them!!!!
Please also feel free to join us on the FACEBOOK site! Click on the SCALES WITH FEET on the front page and it will take you there!
Jan 03, 2012 @ 14:58:52
Can you drink any green tea? I have seen bottles of unsweetened green tea flavored with berries or whatever….is that OK?
Jan 03, 2012 @ 17:23:00
Yes as long as it does not have any sugar or sweetener in it except Truvia or Stevia
Jan 03, 2012 @ 20:13:33
As long as there is no sweetener it’s fine!
Jan 03, 2012 @ 22:53:57
How much green tea can you have a day??
Jan 04, 2012 @ 07:34:50
Christine you can have a couple of cups but remember, if it has caffeine it’s “negative water” (read about this in the book) so you must drink an additional glass of water for every cup of tea!!
Jan 10, 2012 @ 12:57:18
Hi! I am slightly confused on two things. Can you eat Tofu and can you use Agave as sweetener? I am a semi-veg, meaning i eat fish but would love to add in tofu so that I am not eating the same thing for lunch almost every day. I am on Cycle 1 day 3 and can’t get clarity if this is ok in cycle 1.
Thanks!
Jan 10, 2012 @ 13:02:40
If you are on the Vegetarian diet then you can eat tofu but don’t combine the vegetarian diet with the regular diet….then it’s too much food. You really MUST have the book. It’s impossible to follow the plan without the book as it’s much more than a list of food you can and cannot eat!!!! You are cheating yourself by not making the investment. Yes, Agave, as it says in the book, is ONE of the approved sweeteners. The cookbooks have over 550 recipes…for lunch, breakfast and dinners…there is no reason to be eating the same things all the time and if you do there is no way you will be able to follow the plan for long! It will last a week or two…you MUST do this…it’s important to have delicious, food you look forward to eating to be able to stick with it.
Jan 11, 2012 @ 20:58:51
@Marisa: Generally the rule is this: If you are on the Vegetarian diet you can use tofu, otherwise no. You cannot mix the menus from the two..either choose the vegetarian diet OR the regular but don’t eat food off both….that’s the general rule but if you don’t eat any other protein except fish then it would probably work okay for you so I’d go ahead and give it a try. If you’re not losing then I’d reconsider but I think you will be fine…
Jan 14, 2012 @ 06:46:30
Can you use Mrs. Dash during any cycle of this diet?
Jan 14, 2012 @ 12:06:01
Amanda, Yes you can use any spices.
Jan 16, 2012 @ 13:41:05
Yes started the diet today. Wondering does the tea have to be decaf, and also when it speaks of roasted turkey breast can you et the prepackages 98% fat free kind.
Jan 16, 2012 @ 19:24:24
No the tea does not have to be decaf nor does soda. Well that prepackaged is convenient but you should not eat the prepackaged turkey if you can avoid it…it’s often filled with sodium and other preservative chemicals. Also it can be made with dark meat and skin although this sounds like it isn’t…but we’re not concerned with “fat free” as much as sodium and sugar content…so if you use it use it occasionally – not daily or often.
And if you don’t cook and find recipes you love and are delicious you will gain the weight back – I mean unless you LOVE packaged turkey and feel that you can eat it daily forever! You MUST find foods while you’re losing that you will eat the rest of your life and enjoy as much if not more than the foods you WERE eating. If not you will return to those foods and gain the weight back. So try to rely on packaged foods as little as possible…I mean sometimes, traveling and for other days they may be a lifesaver but try not to depend on them too much. If you do within a few weeks you will be bored, off the plan and will gain back anything you lose…keep your eye on the BIG PICTURE…depend on the packaged now but make an effort to replace it with foods that are cleaner and healthier and that you LOVE to taste!
Cookbook 3 for instance has a BREAD recipe that is good for ALL CYCLES….so don’t just deny yourself things…look for NEW foods and recipes that you can and will enjoy for life!
Between the three books there are over 550 recipes! We’ve never had one returned (It comes to your email as a PDF file) or anyone ask for a refund. If you go to the Facebook site many there have purchased them and I’m sure would be happy to tell you how much they love them! They have a search feature so it’s easy to find what you need. Recipes are also listed by Cycles – all Cycle 1′s are of course good for Cycles 1, 2 3 and 4, all Cycle 2′s are good for Cycles 2, 3 and 4 and so on. I review all the recipes carefully to meet the cycles. I know there are recipes on line too but I’m shocked to read how many recipes are listed for Cycle 1 for instance that to NOT comply with the diet so you really have to be careful with what you make UNLESS you follow the cookbook!
I was on the Dr.’s show as a participant on the diet and started writing the blog in early December 2010. It became very popular and as people began to create recipes they would get lost all over the place. We couldn’t find what we needed, when we needed it! So they suggested I do the cookbooks – it’s been a blessing really! I’m VERY proud of all the books and my husband and I put a lot of hard work into them.
Some recipes include:
“Mock” mashed potatoes (all cycles)
Apple Cobbler
BBQ Drummettes
Breakfast Blueberry Cobbler
Buffalo Chicken Salad with Blue Cheese Dressing
Buffalo Chicken Strips
Butterflied Rosemary Lemon Chicken
Caramelized Scallops
Carrot Chips
Cauliflower Crust Pizza
Cheesecake Stuffed Strawberries
Chicken & Spinach Soup with Fresh Pesto
Chicken Parmesan
Chicken, Charred Tomato and Broccoli Salad
Crockpot Basil Artichoke Chicken (Very popular)
Crockpot White Chili with Chicken (and about 5 or 6 other crockpot recipes)
Egg Custard
Eggplant Pizza
Fajitas
Fake Shake and Bake Chicken
Fruit Crepe
Garlic Chicken
Granola with Cherries and Almonds
Grilled Chicken with Dijon and Meyer Lemon
Grilled Halibut with Fennel, Orange, Red onions and oregano
Grilled Portobello Mushrooms
Italian Turkey Cutlet Rolls
Lemon Chicken Soup
Lonnie and Barbs Sausage (good for all cycles)
LOTS of Salmon recipes; Grilled Salmon with Citrus Salsa Verde
Marinara Sauce
Mock Dutch Apple Pie
Mock French Toast
Mock fried rice
Pad Thai
Peppered Pork Tenderloin
Piquant Chicken
Potato Crust Vegetable Pizza
Salmon recipes
Smoothies
Stuffed Pepper Soup
Stuffed Peppers
Turkey Bacon
Turkey Sausage (all cycles)
Vegetable Chips
So many I can’t think of them off the top of my head but people have raved about them. I am 58 and NOT a whiz in the kitchen and there’s not a recipe in here I can’t make myself!
Let me know if you have any questions and I look forward to seeing you around the blog or the Facebook site!
Terri