1. An Oldie But (Maybe) a Goodie
The Fit for Life Diet, introduced in 1985 in a book of the same name by Harvey and Marilyn Diamond, uses the century-old principle of combining foods and eating at certain times of the day in order to detoxify the body and lose weight. The idea that governs this diet is the belief that certain foods when eaten together are not digested easily, resulting in the food becoming fat. One must follow very specific guidelines about when and what to eat when following the Fit for Life Diet, such as avoiding all refined sugar and doing away with dairy products.
2. It's All About the Food
When it comes to being fit for life, it all starts with what you put in your mouth. The Fit for Life Diet is restrictive when it comes to certain foods such as meat and dairy. More than seventy percent of foods eaten on the Fit for Life Diet are fruits and vegetables. Foods high in calories are not permitted while on the diet, so counting and cutting calories is not part of the plan. Meals high in carbohydrates and protein are to be consumed daily but never at the same time. The diet is structured so that you eat only fruits and vegetables until noon followed by either a protein-based or carbohydrate-based dinner.
3. Not Just For Dropping Those Extra Pounds
Supporters of the Fit for Life Diet proclaim that following this plan will not only allow you to lose weight but help you address other health issues as well. Since you are improving your digestion by eating certain foods and in particular combinations, you are cleaning out your digestive tract. It is believed that high blood pressure, diabetes, heart disease and gastrointestinal problems can be reduced by being on the Fit for Life Diet.
4. Fit for Life May Not Have a Leg to Stand On
If it all sounds too good to be true, it just might be. There is currently no scientific data that supports the claims of the Fit for Life Diet, as combining protein and carbohydrates leads to unhealthy digestion. Even the 1985 book by the Diamonds does not contain any studies to prove the principles behind the diet. Food combining has been used in dieting for over a hundred years with limited results.
5. Following Fit For Life Diet May Not Get You Fit For Life
In addition to being largely unproven, following the Fit for Life Diet may actually have some potential health risks. By restricting some foods, some nutritionists argue that you will not be getting all the proper nutrients your body needs while on this diet, resulting in vitamin deficiency. Such vitamins as B12 and D are limited as is zinc. While eating fruits and vegetables is important and healthy, the best diets are believed to be those that allow consumption of foods from all the food groups.
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