The Every-Other-Day Diet is based on the principle of calorie cycling. This requires you to eat a moderate amount of calories one day, followed by a day of restricting calories considerably. The idea behind the diet is that changing your calorie intake every day tricks your body into burning more calories. It also makes it easier to stick to a strict eating plan because you know you'll be allowed the foods you like on the following day.
Days On
Your "on" days are the days when you follow a strict eating plan. During those days, you'll be required to cut down your calorie intake considerably -- to about 300 or 400 calories of non-protein food. You'll also be allowed a small amount of protein. How much depends on your current weight, age and sex. Men are allowed larger amounts as are those who exercise heavily. Fruit and vegetable juices are also part of the "on" days to help keep blood sugar stable, maintain good energy levels and fight fatigue.
Days Off
On days where you're off the diet, you're allowed to eat larger amounts of food. Women need between 1,200 and 1,800 on those days, while men can eat between 1,800 and 2,400 calories. People who exercise can eat on the higher side of the scale, while sedentary people must stick to the smaller side of the scale. While you're allowed to indulge on these days, you must stay within your calorie range. This means that you'll have to still limit high-fat, high-sugar foods and eat as many healthy foods as possible.
Dangers
There's no scientific proof that calorie cycling has any lasting benefits. On your "on" days, you'll be required to eat very low amounts of food. This can be dangerous for people who have blood sugar problems such as those with hypoglycemia or diabetes. Pregnant women, older people and those who are very active might also experience difficulties on this diet. Always consult your doctor before trying this diet if you are ill or taking medications as they can affect how you feel and how your body reacts.
Benefits
Probably the greatest benefit of this diet is that you get to indulge in some of your favorite foods every other day. For people who have trouble sticking to strict eating plans, this diet offers the chance to enjoy the food they love. Because you only have to diet 3 or 4 days a week, it's easier to resist temptation.
References
- "The QOD Diet: Eating Well Every Other Day"; John T. ; Daugirdas; White Swan Publishing, LTD; 2006
- Every Other Day Diet: Official Website
- Every Diet: Every Other Day Diet
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