Information on the Sonoma Diet

Information on the Sonoma Diet
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According to author Connie Guttersen, the Sonoma Diet is based on the latest research of health, nutrition and weight loss. The program primarily aids in losing weight without restricting foods and counting calories. The Sonoma Diet aims to provide satisfying and filling meals that are proportionally balanced of protein, carbohydrates and fats. Filling up on 10 "power foods" provides disease-fighting nutrients. Consult with your primary physician before starting any new diet.

Significance

The Sonoma Diet is similar to the Mediterranean diet which is linked to lower risks of obesity, heart disease and certain cancers. The Sonoma Diet promises to prolong your life and keep you trim by eating wholesome, fresh foods. Learn to satisfy your hunger through carbohydrate-rich energy sources, lean protein and healthy fats. The diet is separated into three different phases or waves to ease you into slowly adopting a new eating lifestyle. Upon completion of the phases, emphasize the 10 power foods that offer the most nutrients while keeping you skinny.

Purpose of Wave One

Wave one is to be completed within 10 days. During this time period break habits that contribute to weight gain. According to Connie Guttersen, the purpose of wave one is to transition your eating habits to wholesome and fresh foods while practicing portion control. Slowly begin to decrease your consumption of refined foods such as white bread, crackers, desserts and sweetened cereals. Replace these foods with a healthier alternative like whole grains. Savor well-balanced meals by eating slower. Be aware of portion sizes to prevent yourself from overeating.

Function Of Wave Two

The function of wave two is about introducing a variety of foods into your diet plan to help you reach your target weight. During this phase eat plenty of whole grains, fresh fruits and vegetables. These foods are fiber-rich sources and digest more slowly to curb your hunger. Fat-free yogurt is a dairy choice allowed back into the diet. Occasional treats such as dark chocolate, honey and red wine are permitted during this phase. Nuts and olive oil provide healthy dietary fat in your meals. Connie Guttersen reminds you to continue banning refined sugar in this phase.

Significance Of Wave Three

Wave three begins after you have reached your target weight. By this time, you have eased yourself away from refined flour, sugar, partially hydrogenated oils, saturated fats and other harmful foods. Wave three encourages consuming more of the 10 most nutritious power foods. These include almonds, bell peppers, blueberries, broccoli, grapes, olive oil, spinach, strawberries, tomatoes and whole grains. In "The Sonoma Diet," the author says the significance of wave three is making the connection between eating for pleasure, health and weight maintenance.

Benefits Of Antioxidants

The top 10 power foods provide vitamins, minerals and powerful antioxidants. Oxidation occurs when toxins from the environment and food cause significant damage to your cells and organs. According to George Mateljan, oxidation is a factor in heart disease, cancer, eye disease, memory loss and age-related diseases. Antioxidants found in the power foods help fight this process. A trio of antioxidants called zera-carotene, phytoene and phytofluene are found in power foods such as bell peppers, blueberries, grapes, strawberries and tomatoes.

References

Article reviewed by Lynda Moultry Belcher Last updated on: Jun 14, 2011

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