What Is Dr. Gott's Diet Plan?

Obesity costs the United States health care system approximately $115 billion on an annual basis, according to a paper published in the March 2008 issue of the "Journal of Occupational & Environmental Medicine." Obesity -- a body mass index of 30 or above -- increases your risk of succumbing to a number of serious chronic diseases. Dr. Gott's Diet aims to help you achieve sustained weight loss and chronic disease risk reduction. As with any diet plan talk to your doctor before adopting Dr. Gott's Diet.

Background

Dr. Gott's Diet plan -- published in book form as "Dr. Gott's No Flour, No Sugar Diet" was created by Peter H Gott, M.D., a medical newspaper columnist and physician. Although the aim of the diet is to promote long-term weight control, Gott reports that other benefits of the diet include increased energy, better sleep and improved immunity.

How It Works

The title of Dr. Gott's book sums up his philosophy on dieting. Instead of counting calories or going through various diet phases, Gott simply asks his readers to eliminate starches and sugar from the diet. Gott reports that simply eliminating these two common elements of the Western diet -- which are largely responsible for obesity and type 2 diabetes -- effortless weight loss will occur. Starchy foods not allowed on Dr. Gott's diet include refined white bread, pasta, pizza and baked goods. Sugary foods not allowed on the diet include candy, soft drinks and sugary desserts, such as cheesecake.

Foods

Although Gott preaches "no sugar," the diet does allow natural sugar in the form of healthy fruits such as apples and mangoes. Although this diet is a low-carb diet plan, Gott does not place any restrictions on the number of carbohydrates allowed on his diet. You can obtain carbohydrates from healthy foods such as sweet potatoes, broccoli, carrots, low-fat dairy and legumes.

Exercise

Exercise is an important aspect of losing weight and maintaining weight loss over the long-haul. In addition to burning calories, regular exercise can also boost mood and reduce heart disease risk. Gott recommends exercising at least 30 minutes daily. He recommends choosing activities that you enjoy, such as walking, dancing or jogging.