The 9-Inch Plate Diet was developed by Alex Bogusky and Chuck Porter, who detail the diet plan in their book, "The 9-Inch Diet." The premise of this diet is that if you eat less, you will weigh less. Bogusky determined in his initial research that the average plate size has grown from a diameter of 8.5 inches to 12 inches over the past 30 years. By eating only the amount of food that will fit on a 9-inch plate, Bogusky and Porter claim that you can eat what you like to either lose or maintain a healthy weight. Consult with your physician before initiating this or any other diet plan.
Portion Control
The 9-Inch Plate Diet is based on portion control. Eating excess calories will lead to weight gain regardless of what you are eating. To lose or maintain your weight, you need to take in fewer calories or eat the same number of calories you burn off during the day. Bogusky's and Porter's diet plan incorporates 9-inch plates that are to be used for serving breakfast, lunch and dinner meals. You may eat whatever foods you wish as long as your servings do not exceed the diameter of the plate.
Obesity Rates
According to "The 9-Inch Diet," the obesity rate in European countries is lower than that of America. In particular, Italy and France have a 70 percent lower obesity rate than the United States. Bogusky and Porter attribute these statistics to the standard plate size used in Europe, which is only 10 inches versus America's 12 inches. Since people tend to eat all the food on their plates and will disregard any feelings of fullness, they often overeat and take in too many calories. Excess calories lead to weight gain.
Psychological Perspective
The 9-Inch Plate Diet works from a psychological perspective as well as the physical aspect of simply eating less food. Putting smaller portions of food on a bigger plate makes you feel you are eating less and perhaps even depriving yourself, as the plates are not filled up. However, putting that same amount of food on a smaller 9-inch plate fills up the plate to look like a healthy, filling meal. This may trick your brain into believing you are eating more food.
No Scientific Validity
You should be aware that the 9-Inch Plate Diet is not backed up with any scientific research to prove its validity. The authors of the book, Alex Bogusky and Chuck Porter, both originally worked for an advertising agency. Neither is a doctor or a medical expert. According to Sarah E. White, a writer for Calorie Lab.com, the book's publishing company also published a fake diet book in the past titled "Eating the Angus Diet" that promoted Burger King's famous burgers. Regardless, the basic premise of the diet, to keep portion control and eat smaller servings, is sound diet advice that may aid in healthy weight loss.
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