How Healthy Is The Fat Flush Plan?

The Fat Flush Plan was developed by certified nutrition specialist Ann Louise Gittleman. Her book by the same name details how you can lose weight by "detoxifying" your system. The meals are exceedingly healthy, as Gittleman encourages a diet rich in whole, unprocessed foods that are free of harmful fatty acids.

Food Restrictions

Many foods are restricted on the Fat Flush Plan. Trans fats, sugar and white flour are restricted, as they are known to contribute to heart disease and obesity, as are artificial sweeteners, which are coming under increased scrutiny. Caffeine is verboten as well. Several spices, including cloves and black pepper, are not included on the permitted spices list; neither are starchy foods such as pumpkin, beans and carrots, although these are included in the maintenance stage of the diet. Grains, dairy products and all fats except for flaxseed oil also are eliminated for much of the diet. The diet focuses solely on foods that Gittleman believes will directly contribute to weight loss.

Calorie Restriction

The first two weeks of the Fat Flush Plan permit from 1,100 to 1,200 calories a day. For many people -- especially those who have high energy needs, such as people who are significantly overweight or athletes -- this amount of food may not be sufficient, according to registered dietitian Maria Adams at New York University's Langone Medical Center. Later phases of the diet increase calorie consumption as you move into long-term weight loss and, later, maintenance.

Emphasizes Healthy Foods

Most Americans struggle to eat enough fruits and vegetables to get the vitamins and minerals that they need. In fact, potatoes are American's most popular vegetable, according to the U.S. Department of Agriculture's Economic Research Service. Gittleman's plan can help you to get more fruits and vegetables in your diet, as you are encouraged to eat approximately seven servings of these nutritious foods each day. Lean proteins are also emphasized, which can help you meet your protein requirements without significantly increasing your intake of saturated fat.

Supplements

Adams points out that the supplements required by the Fat Flush Plan are a concern, as research remains sparse on many of the herbs and amino acids that Gittleman recommends. Adams notes that supplements can interfere with prescription drugs that you may be taking. If you choose to take the supplements that are part of the Fat Flush Plan, check with your doctor to make sure they won't interact with medications or interfere with an existing health condition.