The Sonoma Diet, designed by registered dietitian and biochemist Connie Guttersen in 2006, was revamped in 2011 into the New Sonoma Diet. Dieters can purchase books, including cookbooks, and join online programs designed to help participants follow the diet. Unlike many other diet plans, the New Sonoma Diet does not sell specific meals or snacks for participants to consume, but instead encourages dieters to cook their own food, either from recipes provided by the program or recipes created by the dieter using the principles outlined in the book and website.
Philosophy
The New Sonoma Diet is a commercial diet plan that combines the cuisines and styles of eating of the Mediterranean region in Europe and the Sonoma region of California. The emphasis of the diet is the enjoyment of healthy foods and developing an overall healthy lifestyle. The New Sonoma Diet does not involve calculating calories or specific components of meals, such as carbs or fat.
Method
The New Sonoma Diet consists of three parts, called waves. The first wave involves restricting refined carbohydrates and sugars and practicing portion control by using 7-inch plates and 2-cup bowls for all meals. This first wave results in rapid weight loss and lasts 10 days. When you move into the second phase, you can expect slow and steady weight loss as you add some foods back into the diet while still emphasizing healthy, low-calorie meals. In the third phase, you will maintain your weight loss through a program of overall healthy eating, exercise and adequate sleep.
Foods
The New Sonoma Diet emphasizes foods high in fiber, antioxidants and monounsaturated and polyunsaturated fats. According to the diet, 12 specific foods that should be consumed frequently include almonds, broccoli, bell peppers, grapes, blueberries, olive oil, beans, citrus, whole grains, strawberries, spinach and tomatoes. The diet includes wine in moderation as part of the allowed foods.
Considerations
The ingredients used in recommended dishes of the Sonoma Diet are often expensive, so this may put this weight loss program out of reach for some dieters. Food preparation is also often extensive, so busy dieters may find it difficult to stay on the program. Exercise is part of the New Sonoma Diet, but few specific guidelines are set out as to when or how to incorporate exercise into your weight loss.
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