The Sonoma Diet is founded upon principles that promote healthy eating habits while incorporating flavorful foods from Mediterranean cuisine. This system does not require completely removing carbohydrates or fats from any wave of the program. Instead, it focuses on combining foods to enhance the body's ability to burn fat. As with any new diet plan, consult with a health professional before starting.
Grains
In many modern diets that promote fast weight loss, grains are prohibited in the beginning stages. This is not true with the Sonoma Diet, as whole grains are a significant part of this plan, and are considered one of the "power foods" for weight loss. According to Dr. Connie Guttersen, Registered Dietitian and author of "The Sonoma Diet," incorporating whole grains into the diet helps to boost metabolism, as well as regulate the release of insulin and blood sugar levels. Bread and crackers made from whole grains, not white flour, are allowed, as well as oatmeal, brown and wild rice.
Vegetables
Among the ten "power foods" listed in the Sonoma Diet, seven of them are vegetables. Again, this is different from many contemporary diets that limit many vegetables due to their carbohydrate content. The goal of using vegetables in this plan is to satisfy your hunger with nutrient-dense foods. Dr. Guttersen recommends using fresh vegetables when possible to get the full nutritional benefit from them. While frozen vegetables can be substituted, canned varieties are not recommended. Bell peppers, broccoli and spinach are among the top recommended vegetables in the Sonoma Diet.
Protein
Grains and vegetables are at the forefront of the Sonoma Diet, but protein does play an important part in your weight loss efforts. Consuming meat and fish helps supply the body with adequate amino acids and iron. Although the allowed meats offer variety, it is important to choose lean cuts of meat. Beans and eggs are also good protein sources on the Sonoma food list.
Dairy
Dairy is allowed in limited quantities in the first wave of the Sonoma Diet, but becomes more acceptable in the following stages. Fat-free skim milk, along with low-fat cheeses such as Parmesan and mozzarella, are suggested. Low-fat cottage cheese is also allowed.
Fruits
Fruits are the only restricted category on the Sonoma Diet, and this takes place during Wave 1. The sugar content of the fruits is the basis for this initial restriction. Eliminating these sugars will help reduce cravings and jump-start the program. However, once the first phase is over, fruits come back into play. Grapes are one of the "power foods" in the Sonoma Diet. They provide a variety of phytonutrients, which help to keep the cardiovascular system healthy. Blueberries and strawberries are also "power foods."
References
- "The Sonoma Diet"; Dr. Connie Guttersen, R.D., Ph.D., 2005
- The Sonoma Diet: About the Diet
Member Comments