Core Rhythms is a workout DVD system that emphasizes dance as a method of exercise leading to weight loss. The three-DVD set has two instructors, Jaana Kunitz and Julia Powers, who lead you in a series of Latin dance moves that are designed to burn calories, raise the heart rate and challenge the core body. Kunitz and Powers also include a suggested seven-day diet plan with their DVDs.
Features
Kunitz and Powers’s recommended diet is high on protein and low on carbohydrates, much like the more popular Atkins diet. The two open the eating guide with a suggested list of foods to avoid and foods to embrace. The “no” list includes fruits, carbohydrates, starchy foods, high-fat dairy, alcohol, soda, juice, candy, processed foods, smoothies and energy drinks; the “yes” list names poultry, fish, seafood, lunch meat, nuts, egg whites, nonfat cheese, nonfat dairy, soy products and water.
Benefits
There are many potential benefits to the Core Rhythms diet. The first is that it features whole, natural foods and discourages processed foods and restaurant meals, which tend to be higher in sodium, calories, fat, sugar and cholesterol. Many of the whole foods that Kunitz and Powers recommend are the same as foods featured in the MyPyramid diet plan, endorsed by the USDA. Another primary benefit is that the plan is low in calories. Losing one pound requires burning or saving about 3,500 calories, so it’s necessary to reduce daily calorie totals to take off extra pounds.
Downsides
Although the Core Rhythms diet plan is not likely to pose any health risks in the short term or for the seven-day recommended period, it could potentially be harmful in the long term. According to MayoClinic.com, extended high-protein and low-carbohydrate diets can result in nutrient deficiencies, insufficient fiber intake, liver or kidney problems and elevated risk of cancer or heart disease.
Meals
As part of the seven-day diet guide booklet, Kunitz and Powers include suggested meals for each day on the plan. Sample breakfasts include egg-white omelets with vegetables and meat, cottage cheese with berries and toast and scrambled egg whites with grapefruit and toast. Lunch suggestions include a lean chicken wrap, steamed veggies with grilled meat, tuna salad with vinaigrette, chicken couscous and a spinach salad. Several sample dinners are fish with broccoli, a shrimp quesadilla, chicken with vegetables, and lean beef with salad.
Considerations
MedlinePlus states that the only effective, safe and reliable way to lose weight and keep it off over time is to combine regular physical activity with a low-calorie, balanced diet that includes all major food groups. Be aware that the Core Rhythms diet does not make any guarantees for weight loss or better health, and always consult your physician before beginning any new diet plan.
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