How to Lose 20 lbs. of Fat in 30 Days… Without Doing Any Exercise 6,404 Comments

Written by Topics: Physical Performance, The 4-Hour Body - 4HB, Uncategorized

Fat Loss via Better Science and Simplicity

It is possible to lose 20 lbs. of bodyfat in 30 days by optimizing any of three factors: exercise, diet, or drug/supplement regimen. I’ve seen the elite implementation of all three in working with professional athletes. In this post, we’ll explore what I refer to as the “slow-carb diet”.

In the last six weeks, I have cut from about 180 lbs. to 165 lbs., while adding about 10 lbs. of muscle, which means I’ve lost about 25 lbs. of fat. This is the only diet besides the rather extreme Cyclical Ketogenic Diet (CKD) that has produced veins across my abdomen, which is the last place I lose fat (damn you, Scandinavian genetics). Here are the four simple rules I followed…

Rule #1: Avoid “white” carbohydrates

Avoid any carbohydrate that is — or can be — white. The following foods are thus prohibited, except for within 1.5 hours of finishing a resistance-training workout of at least 20 minutes in length: bread, rice, cereal, potatoes, pasta, and fried food with breading. If you avoid eating anything white, you’ll be safe.

Rule #2: Eat the same few meals over and over again

The most successful dieters, regardless of whether their goal is muscle gain or fat loss, eat the same few meals over and over again. Mix and match, constructing each meal with one from each of the three following groups:

Proteins:
Egg whites with one whole egg for flavor
Chicken breast or thigh
Grass-fed organic beef
Pork

Legumes:
Lentils
Black beans
Pinto beans

Vegetables:
Spinach
Asparagus
Peas
Mixed vegetables

Eat as much as you like of the above food items. Just remember: keep it simple. Pick three or four meals and repeat them. Almost all restaurants can give you a salad or vegetables in place of french fries or potatoes. Surprisingly, I have found Mexican food, swapping out rice for vegetables, to be one of the cuisines most conducive to the “slow carb” diet.

Most people who go on “low” carbohydrate diets complain of low energy and quit, not because such diets can’t work, but because they consume insufficient calories. A 1/2 cup of rice is 300 calories, whereas a 1/2 cup of spinach is 15 calories! Vegetables are not calorically dense, so it is critical that you add legumes for caloric load.

Some athletes eat 6-8x per day to break up caloric load and avoid fat gain. I think this is ridiculously inconvenient. I eat 4x per day:

10am – breakfast
1pm – lunch
5pm – smaller second lunch
7:30-9pm – sports training
10pm – dinner
12am – glass of wine and Discovery Channel before bed

Here are some of my meals that recur again and again:

breakfast-wince.jpg
Scrambled Eggology pourable egg whites with one whole egg, black beans, and microwaved mixed vegetables
lunch-wince.jpg
Grass-fed organic beef, pinto beans, mixed vegetables, and extra guacamole (Mexican restaurant)
dinner-wince.jpg
Grass-fed organic beef (from Trader Joe’s), lentils, and mixed vegetables

Rule #3: Don’t drink calories

Drink massive quantities of water and as much unsweetened iced tea, tea, diet sodas, coffee (without white cream), or other no-calorie/low-calorie beverages as you like. Do not drink milk, normal soft drinks, or fruit juice. I’m a wine fanatic and have at least one glass of wine each evening, which I believe actually aids sports recovery and fat-loss. Recent research into resveratrol supports this.

Rule #4: Take one day off per week

I recommend Saturdays as your “Dieters Gone Wild” day. I am allowed to eat whatever I want on Saturdays, and I go out of my way to eat ice cream, Snickers, Take 5, and all of my other vices in excess. I make myself a little sick and don’t want to look at any of it for the rest of the week. Paradoxically, dramatically spiking caloric intake in this way once per week increases fat loss by ensuring that your metabolic rate (thyroid function, etc.) doesn’t downregulate from extended caloric restriction. That’s right: eating pure crap can help you lose fat. Welcome to Utopia.

###

If you enjoyed this post, check out my latest book, The 4-Hour Body, #1 New York Times and #1 Amazon bestseller. You will learn: the finer details of the Slow Carb Diet (outlined in the above post), how I gained 34 pounds of muscle in 28 days, how to produce 15-minute female orgasms, and more.

You can also get the Expanded and Updated 4-Hour Workweek, which includes more than 50 new case studies of luxury lifestyle design, business building, reducing hours 80%+, and world travel.

Related and Recommended Posts:

Tim Ferriss interviewed by Derek Sivers
Tim Ferriss articles on Huffington Post

Posted on April 6th, 2007

Leave a Comment or Question

Comment Rules: Remember what Fonzie was like? Cool. That’s how we’re gonna be — cool. Critical is fine, but if you’re rude, we’ll delete your stuff. Please do not put your URL in the comment text and please use your PERSONAL name or initials and not your business name, as the latter comes off like spam. Have fun and thanks for adding to the conversation! (Thanks to Brian Oberkirch for the inspiration)




6,404 Comments

  • Rob Maylor — April 6th, 2007, 10:08 pm

    This is quite possibly the most important thing dieters can now:

    “Paradoxically, dramatically spiking caloric intake in this way once per week increases fat loss by ensuring that your metabolic rate (thyroid function, etc.) doesn’t downregulate from extended caloric restriction. That’s right: eating pure crap can help you lose fat.”

    I’m going to do this for one next week and let you know the effects of just one week!!! Thanks for this info Tim. As always you’re the man in the know…

    Reply

    • Katecotros — July 19th, 2011, 8:52 am

      Yes, this is very true. Going on a diet for long periods of time can certainly lower your metabolism. What is more, severe calorie restriction or fasting for more than 60-72 hours can put you into starvation mode. That’s why it’s very beneficial to increase your calorie intake from time to time to avoid metabolic slowdown.

      Reply

      • Chris — July 25th, 2011, 11:13 am

        Hi everyone, I’m 14 years old, and 170 pounds. Within the last month, Iost 18 pounds(I really don’t know how…), I try to do what I did before, but nothing is happening, I want to lose at least 10 more pounds before September. I also have no idea what ANYTHING on this site means, I know some things, but not all these fancy terms that people my age wouldn’t know. Can someone give me some foods that are simple, for breakfast, lunch, and dinner. Thank you to anyone who can help me out!

        Reply

        • Nicole — July 31st, 2012, 4:10 pm

          Breakfast:
          Try black coffee, it may sound gross but without the extra sugar and cream you’ll be taking away the fat calories. Eggs are especially good because it boosts your protein level, and some toast.
          Lunch:
          Always be looking for more protein like tuna fish because it can give you energy to work out more.
          Dinner:
          3 ounces of meat lean or chicken some green beans
          **ALWAYS drink lots of water substitute it for soda or sugary juices
          **if you’re having hunger cravings try some negative calorie foods like apples, celery, mangoes, broccoli

        • Sherry — August 1st, 2012, 4:56 pm

          Hey, I have a son that’s 11 years and is the same weight as you. It would be nice to chat with you and have my son chat to I will give you my email address email me some time and we can go from there. Would be nice to have a motivator for my son.
          Thanks
          Sherry

          Email: [email protected]

        • Aaliyah — August 3rd, 2012, 5:49 am

          Hi everyone, i’m also 14 years old and i have 175 lbs, and i have to lose weight for my mother’s wedding next january 1st but i dont understand half of these terms here so i will have to ask for someone to please simlify it for me………….. thank you.

        • Darrell — August 8th, 2012, 12:19 pm

          I am a weight-loss expert. I teach people how to lose 1 pound a day (Anymore is unhealthy and although possible is generally unhealthy unless you are extemely obese)

          If you need help, call me: (818) 384-6211
          Darrell

          I can also help with with gradually improving your overall health.

          (Eat Raw Vegetables and forget about cooking. The only foods you should cook are meat, poultry, fish, beans, rice, eggs and a few others)

          If you eat raw veggies as your main source and walk 2 miles a day (Not as far as it sounds), you will lose 1 pound a day. For protein eat hard-boiled eggs, beans, and white chicken (Fish if you can afford it)

          DO NOT eat out (NEVER!) The food served in the USA is a direct cause to diabetes II. I am also a specialist in blood-sugar control.

        • Mmarry — September 25th, 2012, 10:21 pm

          Hey Chris you’re fourteen there’s no reason for you to be looking up thesediets, you’re still a kid, you have energy go run around enjoy life be a kid. Perhaps dribble around a basketball, eating healthy if really a great option, yes which I think we should all do, but c’mon you’ve gotta experience what being a child is like at one point or another. Have fun, Exercise!!!(:
          #YOLO#FISH

        • Courtenay — September 30th, 2012, 1:23 am

          Hi Chris and Aaliyah,

          For breakfast you could try oatmeal cooked with water. 1/2 cup of oatmeal and 1 cup of water mixed together and put in the microwave for a few minutes until cooked through. Mix a small handful of berries through that and it should keep you good for the morning.
          You could have a high fibre, low calorie, low sugar cereal with almond milk – read the labels to choose one that’s best for you.
          Alternatively you could have eggs for breakfast.

          Have a snack around 10am when you’re at school, something like fruit or raw veges (carrot, celery, cucumber etc).

          For lunch have something low in saturated fat and high in protein like tuna, chicken breast etc. Have a spinach leaf salad with your favourite salad veges and the tuna/chicken mixed through.

          I imagine that you don’t get a lot of choice with dinner as you’re both fourteen, but maybe if your family is having a high carb side to their meal (like potatoes, bread etc) you could sub that for a salad or a carb which is easier to digest like sweet potato. You could cut your dinner down a little too and eat a smaller portion than you usually would.

          What you guys have to remember is that you’re fourteen. It could just be a simple case of cutting out all junk food and making your meal portions a wee bit smaller which will make you lose weight. Your bodies are still developing so make sure you don’t cut out too much as you are going through a lot of growth and development at the moment.

          Oh and drink LOTS of water!

        • Kat :) — October 16th, 2012, 6:12 pm

          Hi Chis, I just turned 13. I know about this diet because my dad lost 45 lbs from it and I stay on low-carbs because of “sugar reasons”…eat proteins such as all the: steaks, eggs, chicken, salads, veggies, pork grinds (kind of like chips), cheese sticks, hot dogs (pork) you want! Then always count the carbs and calories on your food item. Remember, NO SUGAR! Many say to eat fruits…..don’t! Also, make sure you drink water, crystal light, diet soda and teas (or anything else you find that is diet). When you want a little something sweet to….let’s say coffee….add Splenda and less milk.
          Stay healthy and good luck! God Bless :)

        • Milley Rogers — November 25th, 2012, 6:34 am

          Hey Chris,
          You have lost 18 pounds in 1 month?That’s 4.5 pounds per week.It’s unhealthy to lose more than 2 pounds per week.

        • Femi — December 3rd, 2012, 3:33 am

          Hi Chris, have for you some list of low carb foods that can aid your fat
          burn process. Here’s the list: sea foods, egg, meats, vegetables, fruits, oil (olive oil),

        • janette — December 3rd, 2012, 8:57 am

          if you wanna eat a snack eat peanut butter with an apple it helps a lot!:)

        • Emerald — December 18th, 2012, 1:47 pm

          Hey Chris,
          I’m now 18 and 175lbs. I lost 22lbs in 2 months. Although “unhealthy” all I did was walk. In school I walked up and down the stairs with my best friend and after school I walked around the track talking to her. We never ran or jogged (we are both to self-conscious), only walked.
          We didn’t pay to much attention to what we ate as long as it wasn’t crazy unhealthy for us. However, we drank LOTS of water!

          Drink water, stay calm.
          Emerald (=

        • KAJAL DUBEY — February 16th, 2013, 3:30 am

          How you loose your weight

        • Francosco — March 6th, 2013, 9:29 pm

          I hope this works i will try it i need to lose at least lose 10 pounds but it is better for me to lose 20 am i right better than nothing…and if works i will be happy

        • k johns. — March 26th, 2013, 2:59 pm

          Hi Chris,

          Like other people said, you’re very young. And you are trying to look after your health so good for you!

          Perhaps learning about the nutritional content of food, what vitamins and minerals you need, would be a good place to start. Then how much sugar, salt and fat you should have each day.

          Simply try to eat 5 different types of vegetables every day. And 2 different fruits every day (don’t worry about what Tim says about fruit. You’re 14, you’re still growing. Fruit has vitamins and minerals for you. Or just stick to apples and bananas if you’re worried).

          If you can’t eat different ones, that’s okay. Just eat the same amount and 2 fruits and 5 veggies which is about 2 and a half cups per day of veggies and 1 cup of fruit.

          Remember 2 and 5. 2 fruits, 5 veggies. And you’ll be on your way to a healthy diet.

          You can include some of those veggies on a 7-grain bread sandwich for lunch because that’s easy to take to school. Take an apple too. Maybe some almonds, dried fruit or maybe a couple of rice cakes with peanut butter or celery with peanut butter.

          Other than that. Try not to drink juices and sodas.

          But just try for the 2 and 5.

          Remember healthy eating is about balance and getting enough veggies for your vitamin and mineral levels.

        • angel — March 30th, 2013, 11:09 am

          Could someone help me? I am 5’6′ and weigh 140. I really need to get down to 125ish, but i can’t seem to lose this last few pounds. I’ve been following this diet, and I play tennis 2 hours a day. And to anyone who says its about the inches, well, i’m a size 8, but i really want to fit into a 5. I think I’ve hit my platuo. Any suggestions?

        • EnglishRose2012 — May 6th, 2013, 10:37 pm

          Well done on the weight loss. You are 14 and you weight now about 152 pounds. That is not at all bad and it may be better just to keep it at that whilst you continue to grow. My teens (14) lost some weight and my view has been it is best to let it stabilise, change the foods you eat for life to a healthy diet with no junk food and as you grow taller and exercise any existing excess weight will disappear naturally.

        • dana — May 25th, 2013, 6:18 pm

          Don’t eat anything packaged (cookies, poptarts, waffles, snacks) only eat fruits and veggies (preferrably raw with ranch maybe) lean meat (chicken, turkey) fish, and whole grains like oatmeal. Also eat dairy in moderation.

        • Michael Young — May 28th, 2013, 12:46 am

          Chris,
          I am happy to help, would you try a new milk shake for breakfast instead ?
          lunch as well would be even better
          this is tried and tested and comes with a 90 day money back guarantee
          let me know
          Michael

        • EnglishRose — July 17th, 2013, 10:30 am

          Chris
          I have two 14 year old sons.
          You want to be told simply what to eat.
          One of my boys tries to eat lots of protein. Here in England it is quite common to have bacon and eggs for breakfast or sausages, not cereals.

          Lunch well mostly that is what the school provides and here it would be meat, veg and potato.

          Dinner – chicken and veg and perhaps baked potato.

          Do not lose more than a pound a week – remember you are growing taller so extra weight is likely to disappear just by being active.

          The best things my boys ever did was drink only water ever. If you do that you will do your health and weight a lot of good. Tap water.

        • Endrit Sermaxhaj — August 4th, 2013, 10:47 am

          breakfast : what you want

          lunch : whhite meat (not grilled)

          after lunch : do any exerccisse you know .

          dinner : boiled egg and piece of bread

          do exercise before going to bed .

          Notice !!!!!! ;
          Avoid : Coca-Cola , Pepsi , Sprite , Ice Tea

          Drink more water as possible , till 5Lit. per day , cause water doesnt have any sugar and it burns your Calories. for 7 months Im doing this i was 102 kg and im only 17 old , now after 7 months Im 78 i feel brilliant and i started fitness and i have got my six-packs (which were my dream)

      • Debra — August 11th, 2011, 4:44 am

        I have been on this diet since May 1, 2011 – which means 3 months. I have lost 23 lbs and can not get past the 23 lbs. 23 lbs is great but I wanted to be down 40 by now! What am I doing wrong?

        Here is what I have been doing (I actually typed it out for a friend to follow) – every week!!!!

        Here is what I eat six days a week:
        1st meal – 7:00-7:30 am – green beans, other beans, low fat cottage cheese, slice of 97% deli ham

        2nd meal – 10:30-11:00 am – green beans, other beans, 4oz lean meat (ham, chicken, beef)

        3rd meal – 2:30-3:00 pm – green beans, other beans, slice of 97% fat free deli meat

        4th meal – 6:00-7:00 pm – green beans, other beans, 4oz lean meat (ham, chicken, beef)

        On the 2nd or 4th meal I sometimes have a salad! (But no dressing, croutons, fruit, only veggies)

        NO SUGAR, nothing white (potatoes, rice), no bread, no fruit.

        If you eat canned veggies try to cut back on your sodium they are high in sodium and you will get too much. I had to start buying no salt added green beans – you can add Mrs. Dash to them and they taste better!

        Drink Water – Limit your diet drinks to two a day!

        ***very important – I take 1 beano with each meal! Probably more of a women thing! Guys will usually be guys!

        ________________________________________________________
        On the 7th day eat what you want – I start at 5:30 am and don’t stop till 9:00 pm. I am going to try to cut back at night on the 7th day to see if that helps.

        Don’t be upset the day after the 7th day you gain 4-5 lbs. You will see it go away the next 2-3 days.

        Reply

        • Sara — July 23rd, 2012, 1:57 am

          Debra,

          I had the same experience as you.

          What helped me get past that point and lose more weight is cycling carbs and exercising (not a lot – but the right exercise)

          Click on my name to get to my blog where I explain exactly how to do this properly.

          Sara

        • Silvia — August 10th, 2012, 10:40 am

          when you eat and exercise, your weight comes to an equilibrium of
          (calories taken in) = (calories spent). That means that your current weight is normal for your diet+exercises, and will stay this way. The only way to lose extra is to consume less or to exercise more. If you change your meals (for example, you have 4 pieces of chicken for every one of your meat intake, so now you have only 3), or increase your exercise (add 15 more minutes of walking every day) then you’ll go down a bit more. It’s all a balancing act : )

        • BossLady — August 31st, 2012, 2:41 pm

          So you dropped 23lbs but can’t drop past that, well I didn’t hear you say anything about excercising. Are you excercising as well? You need to burn calories as well not just dieting.

        • ann-marie mackay — December 9th, 2012, 11:58 am

          Debra–get rid of the cottage cheese. No dairy, is part of the 4 hour body :)

        • JT — January 28th, 2013, 10:13 am

          Green beans are starchy. Try cutting them out for a while and cut the cottage cheese. Make sure that your first meal is 30g of protein (which yours would not be). Also, you should be measuring progress in terms of inch loss or body fat percentage loss as opposed to weight. Scales are not an accurate assessment of your health.

        • Laura — January 29th, 2013, 8:09 pm

          Actually, if you read Tim’s book he talks about how eating more protein and healthy fats can help you get over your plateau. He advises eating one more egg in the morning as an example. I would also add oil and vinegar to your salad as dressing to add healthy fats. I don’t think cutting down the already low cal meals your eating would help. Read Tim’s book for some more ideas. :)

        • Laura — January 29th, 2013, 8:12 pm

          Sylvia,

          Tim also explains that it is not as simple as calories in/calories out. The type of calories you eat, especially when working out is very important. For example, eat carbs before a workout, your body will simply burn down the carbs. But, if you eat lean protein before a workout your body will use that protein to burn fat and build muscle.

        • maggie — February 22nd, 2014, 4:36 pm

          I am doing the same only in night time as I work in night shifts everyday, but this is really working^

      • Dana — September 23rd, 2011, 10:57 pm

        Of course, if people would stop thinking of weight loss in terms of caloric restriction in the first place, this wouldn’t be such a problem. I do find my weight loss slows down if my calories are too low. Although I’m not sure it’s the caloric restriction causing the problem; rather, I don’t see how you’re going to get in all the nutrients you need every day when you’re not even eating enough food to meet your energy requirements.

        If we can agree that fat gain and fat loss are hormonally driven, it becomes obvious that one should eat for hormonal balance rather than for caloric deprivation–and then people wouldn’t be frying their thyroids, or whatever.

        Reply

        • LagTime — February 3rd, 2013, 9:14 am

          Dana, it has taken me just over 2 years to loe 50 pounds. I’m still losing but very slowly — which is good, not bad, because I’m establishing habits that will be with me the rest of my life, and losing slowly keeps the metabolism from feeling as if it’s starving, So now I’m eating the fats and proteins that enable me to make healthy cells and my body’s critical biochemicals like enzymes, without which I wouldn’t be so healthy.

          Anyway, slower is better, and as you say, eating enough fat and protein calories in order to keep the metabolism burning fat (which cannot happen in the presence of starches that become sugar once digested) is the way to do that.

          According to Well Being Journal Jan/Feb 2013, pg 4 an article titled Diabetes, Fats, and Carbohydrates, the sidebar article states “A healthy amount of good (saturated and olive oil) in a daily regimen of 2,000 calories would consist of at least eight tablespoons of these fats in order for you to get JUST HALF (caps mine) of your calories from fats. One tablespoon of coconut oil or other healthy fat generally equals about 130 calories”.

          In a diet of 2000 calories, then, we would need 1000 calories from fat, and some sources say more, that the ratio should be 80% fat calories, but that might cause too much fat-burning too fast, there might be a metabolic reaction.

          Another sidebar to the same article, on page 2, is titled Replace Sugars With Healthy Fats can be read by purchasing the magazine at http://www.wellbringjournal.com, and part of the article is posted at this blog: http://deerfield.patch.com/blog_posts/replace-sugars-with-heatlhy-fats

      • surfbug — February 17th, 2012, 6:38 am

        just smoke weed and don’t eat after, so metablism stays up

        Reply

        • cheza — August 20th, 2012, 11:51 am

          lol aahahahahhh

        • tom — August 26th, 2012, 1:59 am

          you mean it stays high

        • smazeise — September 8th, 2012, 5:39 am

          That made me giggle.

        • Cody Clark — September 13th, 2012, 2:26 pm

          Ha! Good one Tom.

        • Me — October 5th, 2012, 3:22 pm

          I know someone who did this and lost 80 pounds in 9 months! I don’t even understand why its illegal. So many people die from DUI’s and cigarettes. But when do you hear someone dieing from Weed?

        • Theresa — March 18th, 2013, 4:27 am

          This link is for response to “me”! As for never hearing about people dieing from someone who smokes weed. How about killing 14 people with a train collision as a result of the train operators getting high! http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/1987_Maryland_train_collision

        • sara — March 26th, 2013, 12:52 pm

          I read that article about if they weren’t high the train wouldn’t have crashed?? seriously you can still test positive from smoking even if you weren’t high that day. No where did it state they were currently high..just that they “tested positive”….people kill me with their wierd assumptions about weed

        • K8 — May 23rd, 2013, 10:28 am

          Are you kidding?!? That is too funny. I didn’t know that the mary-jane would keep your metabolism up. I think I should invest…LOL…but really, does it work?

        • Catalina — March 3rd, 2014, 1:14 pm

          Take one day off per week? Great Ideea, no way I can apply it yet, but yes, one day off is the greatest point in the article.

          Thank you for great content sir!

      • Stephanie — May 18th, 2012, 7:49 am

        If you’re on a 1200 calorie diet, don’t go below that number, and once a week when you “pig out” you don’t want to do more than 2000 calories because to lose 1 lb of fat a week, you need to cut down 3500 calories from your normal diet if you really eat like 10 sandwiches or something, you will not only not lose weight, but the whole week of dieting will be ruined. It is very important while dieting to move your body. Dance to 3-5 fast pace songs every day, you can do it while you cook, clean, do dishes or laundry. Doing something you like while doing your normal chores will eliminate the excuse “I have no time to exercise”. I have 4 kids, and have lost a combined total of 150 lbs by eating right and dancing while I work around the house.

        Reply

        • Ally — July 24th, 2012, 11:35 am

          I just had a baby 5 months ago and I feel huge! I want to lose weight but I dont know where to start. Trying to figure out what to cut, what to eat, what kind of exercise. It is all confusing to me. All I know is I want to lose weight and soon. I am going to try the dancing while cooking

        • Summer — August 9th, 2012, 7:42 am

          I love it! This is what my Mom has always told me to do and is her secret weapon in maintaining a nice physique. She also tries to walk 3 miles every day. But the dancing is a fun way to help with building muscles and burning fat. Have you ever gone to a wedding, danced hard and then woke up sore the next morning? Think about it….

        • Dhanapal — September 23rd, 2012, 1:01 pm

          Balanced diet is anessential one to maintain both the weight loss and Weight gain.Rest of the life ,our fitness to health will gradually stablise for day to day life.

      • Patrice — July 10th, 2012, 8:26 am

        Definitely worked for me. I now do a bit of intermittent fasting, eat more primal and frankly I’ve stopped counting or caring about calories.

        Such a relief to be on the right track, with the right eating habits, and not have to worry about that anymore.

        Reply

        • Derek — July 27th, 2012, 10:16 am

          Yeah, I’ve found that by following a few simple overall strategies one doesn’t have to be paranoid about the details like counting calories everyday. It’s not like our ancestors would or could have tracked their calories, or would have even known what a calorie was.

      • Farid Behnia — August 10th, 2012, 12:31 pm

        @Rob and Katecotros:

        There’s a psychological element to it as well. Taking down your food cravings on paper and batching them for the cheat day, reduces the risk of falling off the wagon the rest of the week and keeps you sane.

        Reply

        • sneha shah — August 31st, 2012, 10:17 pm

          hiii…’
          m 21 (girl) ,5.4(height) nd m 150 ponds … i am very tenced about my weight n wanna reduce 10kg in 3 months ….m stuckd to morning walk for an hour for 6 days a week …..
          it will be helpfull for me if you tell me the proper diet and exercise which i should go for …….. thnXx ………… god blSs :)

      • Bavina — February 13th, 2013, 10:18 am

        have some rich fibre cereal for breakfast, an egg, brown bread and also yoghurt as it helps to break down fat

        Reply

      • Pip Power — February 20th, 2013, 10:45 am

        Hi,

        There’s no chance people in the West will starve. We love ourselves too much, even when we go on a diet!

        Reply

      • Pavlick — October 19th, 2013, 4:56 pm

        Skip the fad diets. This won’t be long lasting results for you. There are many options for this. Like an example, if you take in 1,050 to 1,200 calories a day, and then exercise for 1hr/day, then you could lose 5 pounds in the 1 week or 2nd week, or more if your weight is more than 250 pounds. Don’t cut the calories too much, it is dangerous, and could get into trouble long-term.

        I am myself a victim of cutting calories fast, and long term I suffer from severe heart problems. When I was young, I was running a lot just to cut weight big time – and the results are not very good after 8 years. Just stay active, do some cardio, get a trainer, visit a gym – keep it simple. Don’t take any chemicals to lose weight fast. Eat more veggies, but don’t forget about the meat too, since you have to maintain all your tissues, your muscles and vital elements in your body.

        Stay safe and hard work, dedication, hard work, dedication!

        Reply

    • Jason — August 8th, 2011, 9:35 am

      I just started this diet on Monday last week. I am a wedding DJ, so my cheat day was Saturday. Monday through Saturday morning I lost 8lbs without really changing my activity level much at all.

      On Saturday I ate my typical breakfast of 4 egg whites, 2 whole eggs, and 6-8oz cooked baby spinach. 2.5 hours later I drove through Taco Johns and ordered a grilled burrito, small potato ole’s, and a small Mountain Dew. (I actually had a hard time finishing it whereas this would have almost been an appetizer before). 3 hours later I ate mixed fruit and some veggies and dip (cocktails), and finally ate chicken breast, dinner rolls, and a few M&Ms at the end of the evening. I will also note that all day I drank about a gallon of water or more.

      Yesterday (Sunday) I weighed in again in the morning and was surprised/pleased that I had only gained 1lb! I started at 242.0lb and today I am back at 234.2lb. I will definitely vouch for this diet already! I’m excited to see where I can be in a month.

      Reply

      • sediqua — September 10th, 2011, 9:56 am

        I can definitely vouch for this diet, and if you want to take things a step further, cut out the carb sources, and eat 1 gram of protein for every pound of LEAN MUSCLE MASS.

        Do this in 14 day cycles. (or even as less as 7 days).

        I lost 14 pounds in 14 days in this way, while strength training and doing 10 minutes of cardio three times per week.

        I gained only lost fat.

        Then, I cycled back to eating moderately.

        Reply

      • lisa — October 21st, 2011, 9:49 pm

        what have you lost to date I am interested in fallowing along with someone else that has had a running start at it already if you want please email me ssimply AT hotmail.com

        Reply

      • Meena — December 24th, 2011, 2:00 am

        Hi, Im 23 years old, weigh 125 pound. Im on a diet almost for a month and I lost only 4 pound. Here is the list what Im eating. Morning, @8:00 I drink a of soya milk (80 cal) with a tea spoon of sugar. Afternoon, @12:30 I only eat one fruit such as kiwi or apple. Evening, @4:00 pm I ate on sun,tue,thur and sat veggie soup I mixed in my soup corn carrot cabbge green beans lental and on mon, wed, and fri I ate salad with 2 piece chicken breast. Around 9:30 pm i ate 3 oranges for my dinner and a very small amount of chikpeas. I drink 4 litres of water. And also im breast feeding as well. Someone please tell me what Im doing wrong and what should I exactly do to lost atleast 15 pound. Thanks in advance.

        Reply

        • FYI — July 27th, 2012, 10:06 pm

          Fruits are high in sugar so you may want to eat veggies instead

        • Vanessa — August 5th, 2012, 1:26 pm

          Just want to point out that if this lady really is/was breastfeeding and also already weighs only 125 on this incredibly limited diet, not only is she setting herself up for disappointment with weight loss eating only fruit (and adding sugar?), but she is also setting her baby up to have future health problems. Nursing infants need lots of fats and they only get into the breastmilk from what the mother eats. Just something to think about.

        • Julianna — August 7th, 2012, 11:39 pm

          In order to lose weight, you should eat every 2-3 hours so your body does not get hungry and start storing fat. If your body knows you will be eating every 2-3 hours it will stop storing fat as long as you are not taking in too much fat. The water intake is good. Also, you should try to exercise at least 3-5 times per week. It sounds like from what I read that you are not taking in enough food and calories especially if you are breastfeeding. You may want to check with your doctor and find out how many calories you should be taking in when breastfeeding so the baby gets all the nutrients and you also will get the nutrients. If the baby takes everything, this could have an effect on your body especially your bones if you are not receiving enough calcium. Good luck!

        • Rob — August 10th, 2012, 8:35 pm

          I’m thinking if you’re breast-feeding, then I wouldn’t be potentially cutting out any nutrient my baby was receiving by dieting.

        • Liezl — August 28th, 2012, 8:09 am

          I am a mother of 2 and breastfed both my kids and I can understand how frustrating it is to face yourself in the mirror each day. But you have to remember that your priority right now is your baby’s health, your baby needs all the nutrients that he/she needs in order to be healthy and strong. You can worry about losing the fat later by eating healthy food and exercise. If you still want to lose weight now, why not do it gradually, start by eating small portions and more frequent like every 2 hours with healthy snacks like fruits, veggies. Yoga also helps in toning your body.

          Hope this helps.

        • Sabrina — September 7th, 2012, 1:00 pm

          theres nothing wrong if you only weigh 125 pounds! :) I think your diet is fine minus the 3 oranges at night… although a citrus fruit they tend to be super high in sugar… To me it seems like maybe you shd just add a little cardio to your plan since your still unhappy with your weight (which happens to be a number I myself would turn sideways and disappear if obtained lol) it shd do the trick.

        • C note — September 17th, 2012, 3:56 pm

          Breastfeeding made my body hold on to pregnancy weigh until my son was done nursing. He nursed for one year, and once he weaned himself, I started dropping weight like crazy. I gained ~60lbs during my pregnancy, lost 10-15lbs after the birth, and lost the rest after my son stopped nursing. Ironically, I was much less hungry and ate less whilst nursing than I did during the pregnancy, but still retained the weight. I think my body reacted to the lactation hormones in such a way that it was near-impossible to lose the weight until after I was done lactating. It took me about a year and a half to get back down to my normal weight of 115-120lbs.
          Just keep in mind that if you restrict calories and food intake whilst breastfeeding, you can seriously harm your baby’s health. It takes time to lose the weight, especially when BFing, as your body is awash in all kinds of fun hormones right now. Just enjoy your baby, eat well and eat enough. BFing Mums are recommended to INCREASE their daily calorie intake by 300 calories to supply the infant with the necessary nutrition. You can worry about skinny jeans soon enough; they’ll still be in the closet; but your baby is a baby for only a short while. Enjoy babyhood now, it’ll be gone before you know it.

        • Michael — October 3rd, 2012, 6:52 am

          @meena – you are starving yourself! Your breast milk is probably fine, but only at your expense, and it cant go on forever. Your body will eat up lean muscle mass and hoard every calorie you consume as body fat. STOP what you are doing immediately and eat a “whole foods diet” of lean meats, good fats, and like Tim Ferris suggests “slow carbs”. DO NOT count calories! Your body will tell you when it’s had enough. If you are hungry EAT. Do exercises at a level you are comfortable with. You can safely lose weight while breast feeding, just not the way you’re doing it. You and your baby will be happier if you FUEL your bodies the right way.

          To all the people giving diet advice here to young people – please refrain if you don’t have an educated background in the field of nutrition. It amazes me the advice some are giving out here!!!

        • JT — January 28th, 2013, 10:18 am

          Meena, you should be consulting with your doctor before trying to lose anything at all.

          Also, you are NOT following this diet even a little bit based on what you list for your food intake.

          What you are eating is dangerous. I was anorexic at a young age and the way you worded your post and the amount of food you are eating (especially the types and how you seem to be measuring the amounts), is very close to how I started down that path. This will be detrimental to your fitness goals in the long run, as well as detrimental to the child you are breast feeding.

          PLEASE SEE A DOCTOR!

        • michaela — February 19th, 2013, 5:15 pm

          You are not eating enough calories to sustain your weight loss

        • Michael Young — May 28th, 2013, 12:50 am

          Meena,
          would you be open to trying a new milk shake for breakfast ?
          this can make all the difference and comes with a money
          back guarantee
          Michael

      • Patricia — January 6th, 2012, 10:27 pm

        Have you ever supplemented with protein shakes n also become a part of a challenge community to keep you motivated and accountable? I have found these two things to drive me to get in good shape. :)) I think everyone knows that the more we can keep our insulin levels down, the less sugars we store, less fat stored. Have that one day or couple melas that we splurge a bit: just do it before 7pm.

        Reply

      • maiya — January 16th, 2012, 11:02 am

        omg i should try that because im trying to be a model and yeh i need to eat a little healthier before the summer lol (: last year i lost 12 lbs. in a month by just eating small proportions of food :] so that was cool lol

        Reply

        • Amy — October 17th, 2012, 6:13 am

          I saw you were interested in the post about proteing shakes, so I thought I would add my two cents (I hope you don’t mind). For long term success one might consider a company called Qivana – they have a product called Metaboliq which has over 30 years of research in it. This product is designed to reset and recharge your metabolism… metaboliq is designed for long term success. I have been really impressed with the Qivana products so I started following the metaboliq program and tracking my progress on my website. I already know it works because I’ve viewed the literature and the testimonials. You can contact me if you wish to view them yourself – text or call 860-608-7716 Good luck in your weight loss effort!!!!

      • jets — January 27th, 2012, 1:36 pm

        Thanks for the motivation .. I started last saturday and lost about 3.40 pounds.. am going on a wild diet tomorrow (saturday) and was hoping to see if it will screw up something till I read your post :)

        Reply

      • scott — March 15th, 2012, 2:47 pm

        you drop weight really quick with this diet due to water loss in the first week. Carbohydrates are stored as glycogen in the liver. An easy way to think about it is glycogen ‘holds’ water. So, if you eat fewer carbs, you store fewer carbs as glycogen and your body ‘holds’ less water. Which means…you’ll lose a lot of weight the first few days and then it levels out to a lb or 2 a week (more if you’re more disciplined and have a good fitness plan or have an easy body type for losing weight). don’t lose more 3 or 4 a week at that level chances are you’re dropping muscle.

        Reply

      • Mel — December 8th, 2012, 11:45 am

        Jason, what is your meal plan mon-sat?
        I am hungry all the time and want to snack a lot. In order for me to stick with a diet, I need an exact meal by meal plan. It’s hard for me to stick with diets as well, for the fact that I have 4 kids. (exercise is hard because my youngest, 6month old, is very clingy and with back issues I can not work out holding her. We live in the country and I want to go for walks, but we have mountain lions as well as coyotes, so the treadmill will have to be my source.) So, this plan seems like the one that doesn’t seem too tough, just need a cheap, simple meal plan (another hard thing is the fact that my husband does not eat chicken.) we are ranchers so we have a lot of beef! Thanks for any advice.

        Reply

    • kaylyn — August 31st, 2011, 7:53 pm

      Not technically, all that part was really saying was that it helps with your metabolism because your body is already so used to that “crap” that just getting rid of that will actually double the effort to get rid of it in your system. If you still have that “crap” at least 3 times a month than it won’t shock your system when you quit cold turkey. It would regulate your metabolism, that’s all. Of course simply just eating that will get you to gain weight for sure.

      Reply

    • celina — October 15th, 2011, 9:47 am

      what about fruits?

      Reply

      • Meridth — November 28th, 2011, 11:36 am

        Fruits are very good for you . Especially colorful ones. They’re good for you and they keep your metabolism boosted up all day. You know what they say an apple a day keeps a doc away .

        Reply

        • Ally — December 27th, 2013, 7:13 am

          Hi guys, I really want to loose weight..I’m 17 years old. What is the best way to loose weight. I hate myself of being fat. Please. I have no idea. Please guide me to be loose weight. [Moderator: Email removed]

      • Linz — December 1st, 2011, 7:41 am

        If you’re following the 4-hour body, you should not be eating fruits during the week. Go crazy on your cheat day though. Yes, fruits are good for you, but this diet requires a very low intake of sugars during the week, and fruit has high levels of natural sugar. To satiate my sweet tooth during the week, I’ll have a small bowl of sugar-free jello.

        Reply

      • Dee — January 5th, 2012, 10:23 am

        Some fruits are high in sugar. You just need to research which ones and limit the intake. If you eat foods high in sugar especially before you go to bed, these are added calories and will be stored as fat.

        Reply

      • rachel — January 25th, 2012, 7:51 pm

        you can go to http://www.usdasugarcontent.pdf and find every sugar content thinkable i use it for my son that has a rare sucrose deficiency.. hope this helps…

        Reply

      • Stone — May 15th, 2012, 4:31 am

        Fruits are awesome for replacement of a snacks but on the other hand (depending on your level) they are still simple sugars.

        Reply

      • JAYLIN — May 27th, 2012, 1:37 pm

        I THINK CELINA IS SORT OF RIGHT IN A WAY BECAUSE FRUITS SOMETIMES ARE USED IN DIETS BUT SOMETIMES SHOULD NOT BE BECAUSE SOME FRUITS HAVE ACIDS THAT MAKE PEOPLE FAT

        Reply

      • Amanda — July 15th, 2012, 5:32 am

        Fruits are good to have. I eat one or two servings a day of strawberries or raspberries. They are lower in sugar and calories. I wouldn’t eat anything sugarfree if it has sucralose, Splenda, or anything like that. If you really want something sweet look for things like Maltitol, stevia, and xylitol. Hope this helps!

        Reply

        • Kemal S. — September 23rd, 2012, 8:36 pm

          With respect to amanda, regarding fruit “being good for you” it is a matter of the timing the amount and other factors. Fruits, all of them, do spike your blood sugar. They are more healthy than candy of course, full of necessary nutrients, vitamins, and fiber, but at the end of the day they are also full of sugar.

          This does not mean they are bad, after all sugar is a nutrient the body needs glucose. However it does mean that fruit can’t be eaten uncritically in any quantity at any time and not be expected to have some effects.

          It’s a matter of the quantity, when it’s eaten, and with what it is eaten. Consuming fructose or sucrose will encourage the secretion of insulin at times this is very good, however when trying to lose weight there are times in which this is not desired.

          That’s all. Like everything that is good for you, what’s good for us at one time in one quantity may not be at others.

      • Maisy — October 10th, 2012, 1:48 am

        Some fruits are better than others, a cup of strawberries has only 50 calories and is really filling… other good fruits are grapefruit, apples, raspberries, blueberries and oranges

        Reply

    • Kourtney — November 29th, 2011, 12:55 pm

      I am 23 years old, weigh 164lbs and have a horrible body fat % and i need to do something about it. In the past month i have really started watching what i eat and i work out hard at least 4 times a week, however i have not seen a decrease in my weight and i am getting very discouraged. I have even gone to the lengths of getting a personal trainer and still nothing.

      Reading this has been very inspiring and i am going to really focus only eating the foods that Brian has listed, however how does fruit play into the plan?

      If any of you are like me, i feel like i have tried everything, and i am ready to get the body that i know i can have. Any advice or words of encouragement would be greatly appreciated.

      Thanks!

      Reply

      • Taylor Middleton — November 29th, 2011, 8:55 pm

        I’m 17 and I did the same thing as you; I worked out about 4 or 5 times a week and ate properly and for the first month did not really loose anything which was discouraging. My dad has been a body builder and personal trainer for 25 years and when I spoke to him about my frusteration he told me a few things. When you begin working out you have to keep in mind that you’re building a lot of muscle (which weighs more than fat) so your weight might not actually drop but you’re getting leaner. And of course the more muscle you build the more calories and fat you burn by doing nothing. After the month was basically done I started to loose weight quite quickly and have lost 25lbs in two months. My eating is by no means perfect (as I am still at 150lbs right now) but I am steadily loosing weight and if you hang in there a bit longer you’ll definitely see results.

        I know it can be discouraging but it feels great!

        Reply

        • Debbie — August 20th, 2012, 9:59 pm

          I’m 17 now and have been at the same weight forever like 145 to 150 it fluctuates it would be great if you emailed me seeing how your around the same age and at first had difficulty losing weight as i am now. Please email me [email protected]

      • ren — December 7th, 2011, 3:30 am

        What you need to pay attention to is the inches that you are losing. If you are working out and eating right and not losing much weight it is very likely that you are gaining muscle weight (which weighs more than fat) and losing inches. Body Fat is based off of your measurements not off of your weight.

        Reply

      • Kim — December 12th, 2011, 8:47 am

        Kourtney,
        I have good news for you! Follow this diet as closely as you can and you will see quick results!! I had a personal trainer for 2 1/2 years and KILLED myself for an hour twice a week and cardio on the off days. I worked so hard they told me they wanted to train me for one of those bodybuilding shows. The only problem was, I never lost a pound. Not in 2 years! I was stronger, but still had a belly & big hips. My trainer always grilled me about my diet. He said losing weight was 75% diet and 25% working out. Take my advice and dont’ waste your money on a personal trainer until you get your eating right. When I finally ate right, I lost 12 lbs in 3 weeks. You will lose quicker since you have a little more to lose. It all starts with diet! I kept a diet chart and couldn’t believe all the times I was eating the wrong stuff. Good luck!

        Reply

      • Tanya — February 12th, 2012, 7:19 pm

        I understand, 4 weeks and nothing!!

        Reply

      • Drongo — March 24th, 2012, 1:49 am

        Hi Kourtney

        if you can’t lose weight and you’re “watching” what you eat, the most obvious reason for your condition is that you’re reactive to certain foods. Either allergic or sensitive (two different things). If that’s your case, you have to learn how to identify those offenders and eliminate them from your diet. But you can be reactive to a lot of foods and develop further reactive response as you go. Most of your body fat is “false” fat, which is fluid.
        If you take a shot of straight whiskey, it may be to strong for you to drink and you dilute it with water.
        So does the body by rushing fluid into the offending food and reduce the irritation.
        It is sad that a lot of “experts” don’t address this issue since they never heard if it. There are other causes of too much blubber but it is beyond the scope of this page to go to deeply into it. But there is a way of solving your problem. Everybody can lose weight but not everybody knows how to.

        Reply

        • Julie — February 9th, 2013, 1:35 pm

          Wow, I have heard a lot about people cutting gluten and other foods to which they’re sensitive seeing weight loss. (My mom, for example… hmm.) I am 5’3″ and weigh 140 lbs, and I feel like I have a weirdly large belly for my size. Maybe this has something to do with it. I am a very “sensitive flower” in a number of ways (eczema, asthma, allergies), so it makes sense. I think my body fat %-age might be way up from losing weight the wrong way in the past, though, too. Anyway, good food for thought!

      • Rufus — May 7th, 2012, 9:46 am

        Kourtney,
        Have you gotten your thyroid checked out? If you are eating right and working out and still not losing, it might be worth it.

        Reply

      • Melissa — July 23rd, 2012, 7:01 am

        Hi i was in the same exact boat until this last week so i started at 160 after 4 weeks i was only at 156 with tons of working out until last monday (7 days ago) i tried something different and finally today i weighed in at 147! Email me hopefully this can help u too

        Reply

        • Sehrish — July 28th, 2012, 8:01 pm

          Dear Melissa,,,, Hi my name is sehrish nd i m 21 years old nd married,,,, ndi have a baby boy of 5 months,,, before pregnancy i was so fit nd smart i was about 57kgs nd after delivery i gained weight horribly now i m about 79kgs can u plz help me……????? guys pls you all gv me some advice i want to lose 20kgs…

          thanx u all in advance

        • Michelle — September 24th, 2012, 9:42 am

          Melissa, I’d love to hear what you did differently….

        • octavia — December 8th, 2012, 9:18 pm

          hi my names octavia i am 17 a senior in high school and i weigh 220 i wanna weigh at least 140 by prom which is in may, graduation, and college. i wanna know if you can help me tell me a routine a diet etc i need help asap! [email protected]

        • Joanna — December 18th, 2012, 10:59 pm

          Hi mellisa, I have the same problem as sehrish, Iam 23 y/old with a 4 months old son. Before I get pregnant I was only 67kg. and after I give birth my weight become 81kg which is frustrating. I didn’t breastfeed my child as I don’t have enough milk. Pls give me some advice on what to do I need to lose 20kg at least. Pls help! I just don’t know how to start my diet. :(

      • Linda — December 29th, 2012, 10:48 am

        Stick with it Kourtney, since you have started exercising you are building muscle which weighs more then fat. Use measurements – chest, waist hips, instead of weighing yourself.
        DRINK LOTS OF WATER #1 rule
        Have protein snacks available. I keep Cheddar cheese, cooked chicken cut into bite size pieces, hard boiled eggs, nuts (not that many of these though) celery with sugar free peanut butter. in my fridge ready to grab. Keep going you will get there.

        Reply

    • Elena — December 14th, 2011, 2:35 pm

      Try something new and working good !

      Reply

    • Mina — December 25th, 2011, 12:05 am

      Hi, Im 23 years old, weigh 150 pounds Im on a diet almost for a month and I only lost 3 pounds. I dont know what Im doing wrong here is what Im eating. Morning,@ 8:00 a cup of soya milk (80cal) with a teaspoon of sugar. Noon,@12:30 one apple or kiwi. Evening,@4:00 on sun,tue,thur and sat I ate 2 piece of chicken breast with salad and on mon,wed, and fri I ate soup (the soup include corn carrot lentil corn strach cabbage). Night,@9:30 I ate 3 oranges with a small amount of chikpea. Im not sure what to do to lost atleast 15 pound and im breast feeding as well. Please help me what to do . Thanks in advance.

      Reply

      • Mina — December 25th, 2011, 12:09 am

        I didnt eat any kind of bread rice

        Reply

        • Chelsea — July 19th, 2012, 9:29 am

          Mina I don’t think you’re eatIng enough calories and your body is thinking you are starving it, so it is storing everything you eat. You need to eat more often or more food (one apple for lunch?!?!) along with doing a little exercise. This will get your metabolism up.

        • Verity — August 7th, 2012, 6:08 pm

          Im guessing your weight is in your mid section which is called visceral fat (also known as organ fat) and is very dangerous breifly inform you it has been linked to Alzhiemer’s, Heart disease, type II diabetes andvacular issues so its not just vanity this serious and here is what i did accidently fell upon the solutions.
          I am 33 & have always battled with my weight. I been very ill havent been able to keep my food down or in me for 8yrs Dr. after Dr. i have been to they want to diagnose me with everything except whats causing this. Sept 2011 my gallbladder was removed & I still continued being ill nausea, vomiting & diarrhea 24/7 NO WORK & NO LIFE. 2 months ago 1of my dr associates stepped in forhim & she saidstop eating gluten & lactose GUESS WHAT?? It worked, I have an appetite after now 9yrs & I have other medical issues pending so im stuck in bed but GUESS WHAT I’m losing weight this has never happened before no gluten no lactose how ever since i cant lift, jump, or stand long enough 2 walk i use an old Total Trainer DLX to do so toning/cardio. In less than 2 months (June 14th she told no lactose or gluten) I lost 6 inches off my waist it was 34″ & I was about 158 I weight 136 today and my waist is 28 inch and losing one last thing you need to eat brocolli, asparugus everyday greens they burn fat and you can lots all day stay away from bananas and use an organic maple syrup or honey instead of sugar.I wish you success I know my clothesare falling off of me all by accident. God Bless!

      • Darrell — December 26th, 2011, 11:39 am

        Eat a lot of Bi Bim Bap (Pi Bim Bab). (Look for a Korean Store and ask for Bi Bim Bap hot paste)

        Also drink lots of White Tea (Bai Mu Dan) or Green Tea (5-7 Cups a Day)
        Once you get to your chose weight you will only have to drink two extremely strong Bai Mu Dan cups.

        Weight Loss Consultant
        Darrell
        818-5856914

        Reply

        • Sehrish — July 28th, 2012, 8:06 pm

          Hi…..
          my name is sehrish nd i m 21 years old nd married,,,, nd i have a baby boy of 5 months,,, before pregnancy i was so fit nd smart i was about 57kgs nd after delivery i gained weight horribly now i m about 79kgs can u plz help me……????? pls gv me some advice i want to lose 20kgs…

          thanx u in advance

      • Barb — January 3rd, 2012, 12:05 pm

        Mina, I don’t think you’re eating enough. If you are breastfeeding, you should be eating nearly 2500 calories per day. Don’t starve yourself, or you will have no nutrition to pass on to your baby. See a doctor at once.

        Good luck.

        Reply

      • Krystal Kidnocker — January 7th, 2012, 6:18 pm

        Mina, I think your def. not taking in enough calories during the day, and therefore, putting your body in starvation mode (esp. since your a breastfeeding). As the plan reads, you should be eating more than just a beverage at breakfast, and one piece of fruit at lunch (actually the plans doesn’t say any fruit). It would probably help if you consume more calories, esp. at breakfast time as it will get your metabolism rolling for the rest of the day. I think the key to this ‘diet’ is the foods being suggested to consume during this period are actually being consumed. Your soups also dont seem to be in line with the plan either. I would say to read over the plan again, stick to the foods listed, and def. eat more throughout the day.

        Reply

      • Deb — January 17th, 2012, 9:09 am

        If you are breastfeeding you really need to eat balanced meals, with proteins, low carbs and some fat. Whatever you eat, your baby also eats. For the health of your child, maybe you should start supplementing with formula so they get the necessary vitamins they need. It is hard to lose weight after pregnancy, I have a 8 month old and am still trying. Good luck!

        Reply

      • mandy — January 23rd, 2012, 3:24 pm

        please be carefull if your breast feeding you need the calories and calcium that baby takes from you, depending on the age of your baby, remember that the baby weight took 9 months and may take a while to come off. keep breastfeeding and you will loose the fat. good luck

        Reply

      • JPS — March 5th, 2012, 2:04 pm

        Mina, apparently soya milk is not so great in e mornign and definitely not sugar. You must must eat protein within half an hour of waking. That means eggs, meat perhaps or a protein shake, with legumes. The protein in the morning makes you burn fat for the rest of the day. Follow the list of foods for the rest of the day and you can eat a lot more than your current list indicates. No need to get hungry and starve yourself.

        Reply

      • jbug — March 14th, 2012, 4:10 pm

        too much sugar. he limits sugar to pretty much just saturdays.

        Reply

      • bogdan — May 11th, 2012, 2:40 pm

        Do you know that oranges create a spike in insulin ? which store more fat …

        Reply

      • Ross — May 29th, 2012, 11:16 pm

        i think your problem is the fruit. in the book it is one thing that is forbidden, fructose has many negitive effects and fruit is non-essensial for your diet as a whole, pick up the protien levels and drop the fruit should help you out

        Reply

      • bibi — June 16th, 2012, 6:49 am

        Mina….you are trying so hard to be skinny when sometimes your body will make it harder while breastfeeding. This is not the time to worry about being fat as long as you are eating healthy foods/nutrients packed and not fried/junk food. when you are breastfeeding the body is trying to hold on to fat for the baby. you cant have it both ways (unlike what you see with celebrities). not all people will be thin while breastfeed (some celebs who you dont hear about are fat from it too). I was always skinny 120lb 5’7″ and eat whatever I want. at 32yr, i had my first girl and was only 10lbs overweight. But, each year I breastfed her, i gained 5lbs while eating like a cow – i was always hungry. ..and therefore, I looked 5 months pregnant while doing no exercise cuz my daughter was so high maintenance. I didn’t start an exercise program for two years after and steadily on year 3. you cannot short your baby by cutting calories so low like you’re doing. you might as well just give him/her a bottle formula. You are younger than me, I had the added problem of being older and realizing that as you get older weight is harder to drop after 30 plus. now i still battle that last 5-7lbs even though i exercise vigorously and have a semi good diet. I dont eat not even half of much bad stuff i used in my twenties and still cant get my body fat to go down past a certain %. I now 125lb but still have all my fat in my stomach (genetics but always bad place to carry it). i cant feel my six pack with showdowy outline).
        Eat eggs (organic) they are packed with nutrients for both you and baby and have protein to keep you full. avocado/guacamole. meat/salad or salmon/salad. just watch out for too much mercury from too much fish. sardines are great due to almost no mercury. dont be afraid of good fat food, they help in weight loss especially when carbs are low. no insulin pike will occur. but please eat eat eat. tell your husband to shut up and wait after baby has stopped breastfeeding. I drop almost 10-15lbs right after i stopped. good luck

        Reply

      • Pam Woolford — July 15th, 2012, 9:15 am

        Hi Mina,
        I’m concerned that you are not taking in nearly enough calories a day. You are putting yourself and your baby’s health at risk if your don’t consume the required amount of calories, especially when you are breast feeding,

        You sound as if you are in a bad way and should see a doctor to perhaps be assessed by a nutritionist as well.
        I would like to suggest another way in which to be more relaxed and to also lose weight. It is something I found helped me, Yoga.

        When starting to practice Yoga take it slow and easy. Don’t force your body into the different postures all at once. If you do more than your body says it can do, you could hurt yourself. Like any exercise program, you need to go slow and stick with it. You might not notice a difference in your weight straight away but hang in there, it will happen.

        Practicing yoga brings the perfect out of all of us, teaching us to meditate and at the same time, helps relieve all those little things that cause stress in our lives. As well as the Yoga relieving you of the stress, it will also help to strengthen your limbs and your mind and refresh you. Yes, it even will help you to lose that post baby weight. You will feel your energy level increase because you feel better. Then you can have some fun playing. Please take a look at the above website, and give it a try. I wish you the best of luck. Pam.

        Reply

    • jen — February 21st, 2012, 11:35 pm

      On this diet are you supposed to cut out salt intake?
      Are you allowed to have cottage cheese or any other kind of cheese?

      Reply

    • chris — May 17th, 2012, 1:59 pm

      Ornish Diet is based on the almost total elimination of the use of fats. And if fats are not included in one form or another in almost all foods, than it can be easily called a fatless.

      http://www.quickestway2loseweight.com/ornish-the-most-famous-and-effective-diet-of-the-year/

      Reply

    • Paige — July 10th, 2012, 11:05 am

      Hi I have actually done something similar to this and I actually lost 1.2lbs. I paid a trainer $500 to find this out. I actually lost 32lbs doing this, but I worked out everyday for at least an hour.

      Reply

    • sayenna — August 7th, 2012, 1:26 pm

      Great information! Where can i see the “after one week results”? Im curious how it worked out.

      Reply

    • Di Eats the Elephant — August 20th, 2012, 2:08 pm

      Definitely. I found whenever I hit a plateau on a low-carb diet, gorging on carbs broke the plateau. Glad to see that Tim has researched that more thoroughly and found it to be more than just a fluke for me. Thanks, Tim!

      Reply

    • adrian — August 21st, 2012, 2:35 pm

      is this safe for diabetics like me

      Reply

      • Kat :) — October 16th, 2012, 6:23 pm

        Yes! I am one as well and I have seen that this has made my glucose stay lower, better and more steady :) I have also lost good weight with the no-carb diet and I would recommend it. Look up the Atkins diet, it’s all no-carbs and it works great. This diet can actually reverse type 2 diabetes. Low carbs will Improve glucose control for sure. Good luck and God bless!

        Reply

    • TFM — January 18th, 2013, 8:43 pm

      Hi,
      So did you try this binge eating advice once a week like this book? I am in a weight loss competition and I want to lose the most fat I can. Im afraid to try this because I dont want to mess up my diet. What do you think?

      Reply

    • randy — February 22nd, 2013, 9:30 am

      hey how’s your diet?

      Reply

    • Aldo — April 13th, 2013, 7:47 am

      So did the slow carb week work?

      Reply

    • Chris — June 17th, 2013, 8:32 pm

      Rule #4…Do you stay away from whites on my day off as well?

      Reply

  • Rod — April 7th, 2007, 10:03 am

    What about breakfast? What do you typically eat for breakfast?

    Reply

    • ba — January 14th, 2011, 9:55 am

      So far actually enjoying the diet. Need to know the minimum amount of food I can eat in the am. I have a lapband and mornings seem to be the most difficult time to eat. Even at lunch it seems that the veggies literally take up too much room, leaving less room in stomach for the proteins. If I take vitamins, how important are veggies at every single meal. At breakfast i do well to just get the volume of 1 egg down, no way I can get legumes and veggies down w/ the egg, lunch is a little better and dinner is usually good, volume wise. Any suggestions.

      Reply

      • ba — January 20th, 2011, 8:31 am

        With a lap band, sometimes volume of food is a problem. How important is it to eat a food from all three groups-protein, legumes, veggies- at every meal. Sometimes i’m doing well to get 2 of the groups consumed. Weight loss is going well, about 15 pounds in 3 weeks. Have had at least 1 person daily comment about my weightloss. Of the 3 groups, which is better to leave out or should I alternate leaving out veggies and legumes every other meal. Don’t think it would be wise to leave out protein. Oh, I never get hungary, is it ok to skip a meal. Lunch or dinner I can skip occasionaly, but I never skip breakfast even tho breakfast is the most difficult meal to eat due to the lapband. I appreciate answers from anyone.

        Reply

      • Elizabeth — January 26th, 2011, 12:07 pm

        Just wondering about the lap band. If that is working so well why would you need to do this diet? Sounds like the band is a success story. How long have you had it and who did this for you? How many fills have you had……sounds like a good choice. To you success! Would like a response from you.
        Thanks

        Reply

      • BA — January 27th, 2011, 12:11 am

        To Elizabeth,
        The lap band worked great. Lost about 115 pounds in 2 years. I’m doing this diet b/c my normal diet had become really crappy. I started eating food that was “easy” to eat due to the lap band. Not complaining but ther are a few inconveniences. I was really huge and now just want to get off the last 40 or so pounds. This new way of eating has got me back to following the “eating rules” of a lapband aswell as improving my diet. I have lost about 15 pounds in the first month, feel much better and I can tell I am stronger in my golf game-distance, stamina, etc due to the kettlebell workouts. By the way, I didn’t gain the weight back from the lap band, just was really big and had let my choice of food be dictated by convenience and not what I should be eating. Anyway, I waould have the lapband done again in a heart beat- literally added years to my life.

        Reply

      • nisarenee — January 27th, 2011, 1:29 pm

        how is that lapband thinking bout getting it…are u seein results right away?

        Reply

      • Flo — June 26th, 2011, 6:28 pm

        Just curious, did you lose weight and keep it off with the lap band?

        Reply

      • Jo — June 29th, 2011, 10:56 pm

        To the lap-band guy> Its okay to leave out the veggies if you take vitamins. The purpose is to add fiber to your diet, something that having a lap band makes hard to do. Also lap banding forces you to eat smaller portions more frequently, rather than large portions less often. (this is how it helps you lose weight) The protein is the most important thing, so if the choice is between the eggs and the beans, eat the egg.

        Reply

      • Yogita — July 1st, 2011, 11:25 pm

        What is “lap band”?

        Reply

      • marissa — November 30th, 2011, 10:25 am

        hey ba i also got the lapband done 2 years ago ive lost 110 pounds.My lapband doctor told me to make sure i take my vitamines everyday because i still cant eat veggies..I also have to do a fiber drink so i can get my fiber.Sense there is days i cant eat cause i regeratate he tells me to make sure i drink my protein shakes to get my protein in me..I know ive come to realize i can eat eggs good and fish they go down pretty good with out pain.Today i started a egg white diet to see how it works..I know theres time i get aggervated cause i want to eat and enjoy family meals like on holidays thats the hardest for me..what kind of exercises do you do to help you lose weight?

        Reply

    • Cathy — January 14th, 2011, 6:39 pm

      Oatmeal meal, yogurt and fruit.

      Reply

    • Joan — July 18th, 2011, 4:10 am

      his breakfast is eggs, beans and vegetables. i’m doing with just the eggs and it works for me.

      Reply

    • katelyn — August 5th, 2011, 3:04 pm

      oatmeal with a bowl of blueberries

      Reply

    • Elly — August 24th, 2011, 3:15 am

      Egg whites is what I do. Or the whole egg! Left over dinners are good too. You don’t always have to eat breakfast foods for breakfast!

      Reply

      • Robin — August 27th, 2011, 5:45 pm

        Can somebody PLEASE tell me what a ‘lapband ‘ is………….

        Reply

      • Maggie B — September 13th, 2011, 8:10 am

        LAP BAND is a drastic weight loss stomach surger – FROM WIKIPEDIA: “A laparoscopic adjustable gastric band, commonly referred to as a lap band, is an inflatable silicone device that is placed around the top portion of the stomach, via laparoscopic surgery, in order to treat obesity.”

        I hope that helps a couple of you that have been asking! :-)

        Reply

  • Vladimir Sedach — April 8th, 2007, 9:37 am

    Where it’s available, I recommend substituting turkey for chicken, especially for the post-workout meal. It’s got a lot less fat and more protein, and IMO tastes better anyway.

    Reply

    • Ina — January 3rd, 2012, 12:16 am

      Hi Guys

      I see a lot of your diets here, unfortunately most of you will experience the same problem, once your body gets used to the diet plan you are on, it will stop burning fat, so if you can work out 2 meal plans stretching over 2 weeks each, one that you are on now (consisting of beans ect.) and then a stricter one that you have to also cut the following food out, NO beans, corn, Patatoes, any high sugar fruits (best to eat is watermelons, grapefruits ect, NO bananas, apples, grapes ect).

      Also try and substitute most of your proteins during this time with soy, like soy milk, soy beans (instead of meat/chicken) and NO flavoured waters just normal spakling or still, you can always add lemon for flavour

      Reply

      • Annie Post — February 12th, 2012, 9:41 am

        soy? seriously? are people still promoting soy? It’s poison and as a phytoestrogen kills your thyroid. It’s a cheap protein that is in almost all processed foods even tuna. It’s one of top allergens. Soy was promoted by big agribusiness as a health food specifically because it is so bad for you.
        Research.

        Reply

        • zone30 — August 1st, 2012, 4:36 am

          You are 100% correct Annie, im suffering from hypothyroid after
          consuming soy protein shake for weight lose .
          Before taking soy i was abslutely healthey.

        • Honey — February 18th, 2013, 7:27 pm

          Hi
          Yes. Even I was hypothyroid after taking soy milk for 2 yrs. I stopped it and now I don’t have any thyroid problem. Soy is bad :)

  • Tim Ferriss — April 9th, 2007, 12:49 am

    Rod, believe it or not, my breakfast is the egg, black bean, and vegetable combo. I actually prefer lentils over black beans.

    Breakfast is usually the hardest meal for most to modify, as we’re a country of toast and cereal-eating junkies. Moving to slow carbs and protein requires a more lunch-like meal for breakfast. This is easier when you realize that breakfast can be a smaller meal, particularly when followed by a lunch 3-5 hours later. Try it for 5 days and you’ll see the difference. Not only will the increased protein intake in your first meal decrease water retention, it will also increase resting metabolism about 20% if your breakfast calories are at least 30% protein.

    Reply

    • David S — January 3rd, 2011, 11:37 am

      Tim:

      Started slow carb diet today after reading 4 Hour Body over the break. Had a great breakfast of egg whites, one whole egg, microwaved spinach and onions mixed into the eggs, and a half cup of no fat refried beans. I had this at 7:30 and my lunch (work lunches) is not until 1:00 pm. Its 10:30 am and I am already hungry!!!! What do you suggest? I know that tomorrow I will up my bean intake at breakfast to fill up.

      David

      Reply

      • Byron — January 12th, 2011, 3:37 pm

        Hey David,

        Between breakfast and lunch you should have a slow carb snack (remember you will be eating 4 to5 meals a day at 2 1/2 to 3 hour intervals). I suggest either an Organic vegan food bar, or greens plus vegan bar from Whole foods.

        Reply

      • Curt — January 17th, 2011, 11:19 am

        Hi David,

        I would suggest bringing a little zip loc baggie with about 15 (1/4 cup) almonds. That’s what i do when i have a morning class but need to eat something before “lunch time” .

        Hope that helps,
        Curt

        Reply

      • Krishna — January 22nd, 2011, 9:05 pm

        Hi David,

        Are you eating enough volume of food during breakfast? I eat breakfast at around 8:00 AM – lentils, mixed veggies, spinach and a protein supplement (pea protein) and sometimes I don’t feel hungry till late in the afternoon or early evening if I have to miss lunch…

        Some days it seems like forcefeeding early in the morning, but it pays of well during the rest of the day. Keeps hunger down and concentration/mental performance high.

        Cheers,
        Krishna

        Reply

      • karelys davis — July 20th, 2011, 8:18 pm

        it could easy be that your metabolism is revving up and you’re hungry. Maybe more food or food sooner? snacks?

        Reply

    • Debra — January 9th, 2011, 5:19 pm

      I need to ask i have been having a herbal life shake for breakfast and one for lunch then a sensible dinner and working out at the gym for an hour 6 days a week the weight is coming over very very slowly

      Reply

      • ninetyfivem3 — September 12th, 2011, 8:52 pm

        I would drop the herbal life. Maltodextrin (sugar in disguise) is one of the key ingredients. This will inhibit your attempt at weight loss. They are sneaky and don’t tell you that. Find a good whey protein shake. It will help to build lean muscle mass wheyyy (hahaha) better than soy protein will anyhow.

        Best,

        95M3

        Reply

    • jim nastiks — January 12th, 2011, 11:17 pm

      Yo Tim
      a good friend of mine dropped from 150 kg’s to 87 kg’s on your diet and looks healthy as all hell today , and i did this diet instictiveley a few years back and dropped around 30 kg’s , i did not keep a weight loss diary and i need to drop 16 kg’s now . so i just wanted to know

      1. should i work out before or after i have eaten ?

      2. should i skip the dieters gone wild for the first month ? ( this is what my friend tells me )

      3. can i eat chickpeas ?

      4. you say we must not eat carbs or cheese but you have a picture of a post workout pizza on here ??

      thanks budd !

      marc

      Reply

      • Yogita — July 1st, 2011, 11:29 pm

        Chickpeas should be fine as they are high in protien

        Reply

      • RWT — August 15th, 2011, 6:02 am

        Jim,

        Here’s my two cents to each of your questions:

        1. Have a full meal only after working out. It’s typically best to workout on an empty stomach but if you do need to eat something then make it something easily digestible like yogurt or fruit.

        2. If you have a lot of fat to lose (ie. >20% body fat) then I would recommend a “Cheat Meal” to start rather than a “Binge Day”. There’s a continuum from Cheat Meal to Binge Meal to Binge Day in how severely you break the diet’s rules. A Cheat Meal might be excessive but still quality carbs like potatoes or pasta while a Binge Meal will have both excessive and low-quality carbs like a Snickers bar or slice of cake. The greater the fat to lose then the less severe of a binge is appropriate.

        Someone like Tim who’s under 10% body fat can get away with a whole Binge Day. However, just like anything, try them out, measure the results and determine what works best for you.

        3. Yes.

        4. That’s his Cheat/Binge Meal.

        Reply

    • Marian Wiseman — January 15th, 2011, 8:02 am

      Is dairy allowed/recommended? I have been following the diet for 2 weeks and I am not including dairy b/c I am basically just copying what you eat. But, is it part of your diet plan?

      Thank you,

      Marian Wiseman

      Reply

    • ccc — February 6th, 2011, 11:21 pm

      Tomorrow will be my first week on this eating schedule. My trainer recommended this plan to me. Today was my “Splurge” day. My weigh in will be on Tuesday. I am really hoping this works. I have stayed completely committed, no cheats throughout the week. This has actually been incredibly easy to follow. I have 10-15 pounds to lose in the next 4 weeks. Hopefully I have already have lost 2 pounds in this first week, then I’ll only have 8 or so to go. I have a big photo shoot the 1st week of March, so I am following this plan strictly and working out like a fitness freak ;)
      As far as the protein goes, I am eating fish, eggs, and protein powder. I don’t eat chicken, beef, pork… so those are my swaps, hoping it wont mess anything up. I just had my gall bladder out, so my system is a bit touchy. I had beans all week, and it’s been rough. I have a hi protein, hi fiber, low carb, organic whole grain bread that I may try swapping for the beans a few times this week. (only 2 net carbs) I hope it goes alright, I don’t see why not?
      Any advice would be appreciated.
      Cheers to being our best!

      Reply

    • Jodie — June 4th, 2011, 4:13 am

      I have noticed that urine volume has increased a lot. Frequency remains pretty much the same though so thats good. You’re right though about changing breakfast being the hardest. I just keep eating eggs and bacon which psychologically is wrong (I’m not sure bacon is even allowed!). I’m used to greek yoghurt with a tablespoon of apricot and honey compote on work days (with large filter coffee) and a Venti non-fat starbucks on saturday with a bacon & egg bap on Sunday. I’ve been on it for 7 days. I’m not hungry at all. I’m sufffering from the mental challenge of it though, hitting a wall atm. Must…find…strength.

      ;-)

      Reply

    • Luciano Neriah — June 15th, 2011, 5:36 am

      I’ll start today ferris footnote 10 that business around, lol.

      Reply

    • Rene de Goeij — June 22nd, 2011, 5:01 am

      I have a question in holland we have brown beans and kidney beans are these a good substitute for black beans and pinto beans?

      Reply

      • Melissa — July 3rd, 2011, 12:58 pm

        I found black beans at Xenos yesterday!

        Reply

      • Caroline — July 12th, 2011, 5:32 am

        Rene,

        Most beans are OK. Beans in general are high in fiber and protein but black beans and lentils have higher antioxidants and lower in calories that why they are prefered.

        Reply

    • Dawn — June 29th, 2011, 5:24 am

      Hi, I am an Inn Keeper and love different foods for breakfast. I eat all of the things you talk about in this diet, AND sometimes serve breakfasts just like this. I was wondering, you say not to drink your calories. I can’t eat much dairy, but crave soy milk. Can I have soy milk on this diet? I don’t drink sodas or tea. Coffee once in a while. Soy milk is like a snack to me, so I would hate to give it up.

      Reply

    • Judy Nash — July 23rd, 2011, 5:44 am

      What about Canadian bacon, egg whites, green/red peppers (any veggies)

      Reply

    • afeisha — August 2nd, 2011, 1:10 pm

      where have you dissapeared to tim? it seems you havent been on the blog since 2007

      Reply

    • Marie — August 8th, 2011, 7:52 pm

      I’m about to start the slow carb diet, as I have a good 20-25 lbs to loose. My question is post diet. Let’s say I loose the weight and decide to start eating carbs in a reasonable manner, will that be ok. People tell me dieting doesn’t work as all the lost pounds will be gained back. How can one prevent that?

      Reply

      • Sara — November 1st, 2011, 4:12 pm

        Did you ever get a response about the weight gain after you coe off this diet? I noticed you wrote this a few months back, how did you do. I was curious, Thursday will be a week for me and I am down 7 lbs.

        Reply

        • Gloria — December 22nd, 2012, 11:48 pm

          I ate slow-carbs for 3 months and lost 30 pounds. I went back to a less-restricted diet (a few slices of toast, some potatoes and rice) and didn’t gain back a pound. Normally, those who gain back pounds are those who go back to the Standard American Diet way of eating — 300g of refined carbohydrates, candy bars, pop, sandwiches and fries galore — that will surely cause you, and anyone else in the world, to gain weight. Eat sensibly, incorporate lower-carbohydrate foods sparingly, as this is much better for your health, and exercise. You shouldn’t have any weight problem after that!

    • Nancy — August 18th, 2011, 1:41 pm

      Are Navy Beans okay to eat?

      Reply

    • Robin — August 27th, 2011, 5:37 pm

      what is ‘slow carb”? I’m just starting the low carb approach so I’m trying to learn.

      Reply

    • zara — November 4th, 2011, 7:36 pm

      hello sir
      can i use the protein shake as well?
      pls let me know i am so exited to start this method from tomorrow
      and thank u so much for suche a blessing program.
      zara

      Reply

    • Andrew — December 15th, 2011, 10:09 am

      Hi tim , love the 4HB book. Im confused on the supplements. You stated to use P A G G for 6 days. But you also stated to use CQ only on cheat day. Then you stated to use CQ and PAGG togather. SO is to ok to use both togather 7 days a week. can you braket down for me.

      thanks.

      Reply

    • Adrian Stones — December 19th, 2011, 5:38 am

      I have a question. I’m 14 and I weigh 95kg, i need to lose weight. Whats the best diet can you suggest?

      Reply

      • Camry — March 7th, 2014, 5:40 am

        I would suggest a good gym and less low quality foods. Eat more veggies, fruits in combination with lots of cardio and plenty of water. In 3 weeks you will get a different look and you do not need any special diet.

        Reply

    • ana — December 27th, 2011, 9:27 pm

      Hi! I wanted to ask you about using agave nectar as sweetener. I drink a lot of yerba mate, but, I can’t drink it without adding any sweet. I replaced sugar with agave nectar a while ago and it works great for me. Can I still use it while I am on your diet??
      I weight about 130 and I am 5.1. I need to loose between 10-15 pounds.

      otherwise, I love your diet, I will definitely try it!

      Thank you
      Ana

      Reply

    • Tanya — February 12th, 2012, 7:17 pm

      Tim, I have been on this diet for 3.5 weeks,
      I haven’t lost any weight! I have been starving myself
      For 30 years, is my body now in shock
      With three meals a day? I don’t want to quit
      As it is working wonders for my husband,
      Is this normal, will I see results, I’m desperate?
      Thanks
      T

      Reply

      • Mahd Bafaqeeh — April 29th, 2012, 11:54 am

        Trying to lose weight by not eating isn’t the answer. you must eat to keep your nutrients, and protein up. eat all your meals for a day but the appropriate amount, and it will help.

        Reply

    • Robert — March 4th, 2012, 2:10 pm

      Can I have gravy on my lentils

      Reply

    • MMark — March 12th, 2012, 10:37 pm

      I have lost about 20 -30 pounds . I am stuck on 188 and can’t get past that for the past two weeks, Tried to eat less and that doesn’t work any suggestions??

      Reply

    • Alan Chatfield — March 19th, 2012, 5:12 pm

      Hi Tim,

      you sound like you really know your stuff and I enjoyed your 2 books but I’m afraid to say I’m trying this diet and it doesn’t seem to be working for me! Please help.

      I have really great will power and love experiments so thought I’d try it. 10 years ago I tried giving up alcohol for 6 months (the year before it was 3 months) at the end I just continued & I haven’t drank alcohol since (for over 10 years now).

      So I’m great at following the rules. I do allow myself one exception – tea with milk but surely that couldn’t stop the whole thing from working? All I drink is tea (milk, no sugar) & water – otherwise lentils, veg, chick peas, soup (without potato), meat, fish, eggs – nothing else (p.s. Are nuts allowed?)

      I’m now on week 4 but really haven’t seen any results. Could you help at all – is it possible this just doesn’t work for some people? I’m certain that the tea I drink with a little milk can’t be the problem because that equates to very very little plus I’m really often craving snacks during the week but am a really good boy and resist (I eat a tomato instead)

      I’d love to see this work for me as I could continue knowing there’s a chet day each week but so far I’ve made a really dramatic change to my diet (I have a sweet tooth & love fruit, rice & pasta) but with no discernible results :-(

      Can you advise me at all?

      Reply

    • Barry Bridges — May 11th, 2012, 3:10 pm

      I am very interested in this approach. I am going try it. :-)

      Reply

    • Zandra — May 13th, 2012, 1:15 am

      I’ve lost ten pounds in 6 days !! I’ve exercised loads as I like to anyway…however I’ve been having porridge for breakfast made with water is that a no no ?

      Reply

  • Tim Ferriss — April 9th, 2007, 12:51 am

    Vladimir, good recommendation. Turkey (or ostrich, if you can find it) is a great alternative. For those adventurous souls looking for lower-fat and high-protein red meat besides beef, I also recommend bison (American buffalo).

    Reply

    • NK — January 12th, 2011, 3:15 pm

      I’m a 5’3″ woman who was already close to my ‘goal’ weight before deciding to experiment with this method… and I lost 5 pounds on my first week. Holy shit, right?! I was pretty psyched, but 3 days after cheat day I’m crazy bloated (nowhere near my period) and up 2 pounds (for a total loss of 3).

      Are the beans making me bloated? Is it all the beans + bonanza cheat day? Is it because I ate cheese on cheat night and I’m lactose intolerant?

      I’m still following the plan to the letter (including cold showers and semi-cold baths) but I’m thinking of not going so hog wild on my next cheat day… Any other advice?

      Thanks!

      Reply

      • Kathryn — January 20th, 2011, 7:47 am

        I’m in week 2 of this diet, and I’ve had the same experience, too, NK! I lost 3.5lbs the first week, had my cheat day, gained 1.5 lbs, and 5 days later I’ve only lost .5lbs of the post-cheat weight. Help!

        Reply

      • jessica garlandra — June 18th, 2012, 3:26 pm

        Try making your last meal of the day no later than 5:30pm, I’m not doing this diet at present but I have found that if you eat this early than you actually use the carbs or calories you eat. I’ve lost 3kgs in a week just from cutting down my meal size + 3 10minute workouts a day (only 4 days a week) + using fresh instead of frozen vegies. Oh and any snacks are muslei bars or fruit. Another great vegie to add to your meal is cabbage because cabbage uses more calories to digest it than what you gain from eating it. When you pick a diet pick something you want to do for the rest of your life because as my doctor explained to me crash diets and diet pills work for now yes but as soon as you eat different to the FAD all the weight will come back + extra. Also calorie counting diets do not work this is why some of you are having problems on your cheat days, when we cut calories or count them our fat particuls seperate and turn from one large particul into two smaller particuls and they keep dividing again and again, this creates mote storage space for fat so meanless to say when you eat junk or high calorie foods it fills these extra particuls and causes more of a problem than there was in the first place. So of you want Long term results you have to change your lifestyle permanently otherwise you will just be in the same situation when you stop your diet. If you are having trouble starting weight loss than I do recommend the cabbage soup kick start diet but you have to be very commuted because it is hard and you do need to put in a lot of effort with the excercise because other wise you will get excess skin from how rapid the weightloss is

        Reply

    • CameronQ — January 15th, 2011, 7:23 pm

      Kangaroo meat is also an outstanding alternative.

      Reply

    • Daniel — January 24th, 2011, 7:06 am

      If you can get it then Minke whale meat is great.
      26 % Protein
      0,9 % Fat
      0 % Carbs
      It is red meat, so red that it almost looks black.
      Tastes like beef except it does not get chewy when over cocked.
      Minke whales are baleen whales so there are few food chain steps for toxins to accumulate and you can’t get more “wild range” than whale.
      And before the flames start note that Minke whales are not classified as endangered http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Minke_whale

      Reply

      • Juliane — June 17th, 2011, 11:01 am

        Hi! Is Minke Whale available in the US? I had it in Iceland.. amazingly delicious..like a fat free filet mignon! I am craving it so badly! Thanks!

        Reply

    • Rachelle — September 1st, 2011, 11:09 am

      Alaskan Moose is my favorite alternative to beef. Not gamey at all – just good!

      Reply

  • Phil — April 10th, 2007, 3:19 pm

    I want to know more about that pizza. Where do you get it / how to you make it? It looks delicious.

    Isn’t there a lot of white carbs in the crust though?

    Reply

  • sara — April 10th, 2007, 8:00 pm

    i was clicking my ‘stumbleupon’ button and came across this. i’ve been looking to lose some weight, and trying. once i read this, and because i hadn’t eaten in a few hours, i quickly made myself some chicken, pinto beans, and vegetables. this is the exact diet i was looking for. i’ve never been much of a breakfast food person, so i have no problem substituting the typical american breakfast foods. but one question….are canned foods alright?

    Reply

  • draoul — April 10th, 2007, 8:44 pm

    Thats what works for me too, but you left out the meth.

    Reply

  • Kevin D. — April 10th, 2007, 8:49 pm

    What about 100% whole wheat bread? I love Acme’s whole wheat walnut levain. Whole grain plus protein.

    Reply

  • Amy H. — April 10th, 2007, 9:21 pm

    Sounds great, but eating the same 3-4 meals cycle after cycle is going to get BORING! Also, what do you have to say about the idea that men’s metabolic rates generally allow them to lose weight faster/easier? Thanks.

    Reply

  • SANE Fitness » Change your life, change your diet — April 10th, 2007, 9:43 pm

    [...] author says that it is possible to lose 20 lbs in 30 days without exercising, but by changing what you eat and how you eat [...]

  • raist — April 11th, 2007, 2:11 am

    i have a question. how does whole grain wheat fit into this, if at all? would it be considered “white carbo” and is thus to be avoided?

    Reply

  • Tim Ferriss — April 11th, 2007, 4:03 am

    Hi All,

    Thanks for the great comments and questions! Here are my answers:

    1. Canned foods are absolutely fine. No problem. All of my vegetables are either frozen (80%) or canned (20%). I’m a huge fan of canned tuna in water mixed with lentils and chopped onions. If you’re trying to gain muscular weight, just add durum-based macaroni to that and you’ll be set.

    2. The pizza is from Pizza My Heart, based here in Nor-Cal (http://www.pizzamyheart.com/). It’s wonderful. Most small independent pizzerias should be able to help you customize a pizza, and you can always have chicken strips at home that you add on top for the finishing touch. Frozen chicken breasts from Safeway can be microwaved and cut in a matter of a few minutes.

    3. Meth is bad, unless you want to look like 80s Axle Rose or Kate Moss.

    4. Whole grain is not recommended on this diet, due to high caloric content and generally high glycemic index. I challenge you to find one that is not “enriched” (it is bleached, then vitamins, etc. are added back in) or that doesn’t contain high fructose corn syrup in its first five ingredients (the ingredients of the “ingredients” listing on all food products are listed in descending order of quantity). It is tempting but not good for fat loss. True whole-grain bread is better than white bread and actually tastes pretty rough, but if you’re serious about fat-loss, I discourage consuming it. Saturdays allow you to go nuts, so be strict otherwise.

    5. Eating the same meals over and over again is boring, yes. I will generally eat the same 3-5 meals every day for 1-2 weeks and then rotate to a new 3-5 meals that comply with my diet plan. It is not practical to have consistency and variety at the same time, so I rotate in this fashion to prevent feeling like a POW. That said, being in incredible shape usually justifies having good but familiar food from Sun-Fri. Saturday is no-holds-barred.

    Hope that helps!

    Tim

    Reply

    • Valerie — December 17th, 2010, 9:13 pm

      Sort of smirking here as I read your comments… I just read them in the “4-Hour Body” a few hours a go. I thought what I was reading sounded awful familiar.

      Reply

      • Jay — January 20th, 2011, 4:30 am

        It’s probably because the book was based on this blog post and then some. This was posted in 2007, the book came out in 2009, right?

        Reply

    • DW — December 18th, 2010, 9:52 am

      Um, quick tip Tim, most women DO want to look like Kate Moss! But you are right that meth is bad, but it won’t make you look like her because it rots your face off :S.

      Reply

    • Jeff — January 4th, 2011, 1:18 pm

      Regarding #4 (whole grain)… Oroweat’s 100% Whole Wheat Bread comes pretty close to making the cut. But I don’t know how it impacts fat loss even if you limited yourself to 1-2 slices a day.

      http://www.oroweat.com/Products/Description.aspx?sSku=7313000132c

      Reply

    • frank — January 6th, 2011, 7:42 pm

      tim
      hey i bought the book…on tape of course, where the f is the work out program biaach?

      Reply

      • michelle — January 11th, 2011, 6:47 pm

        Hi Tim, I have just been briefly reading through and I am doing all the Rules you have mentioned plus exeercising for at least 30 minutes a day doing walking/jogging and have been for a week now and I cannot see any results!
        What am I doing wrong or do you have any tips to speed up this process?
        Appreciate your feedback! Thanks.

        Reply

    • Trey — January 24th, 2011, 6:07 pm

      Hey Tim, I noticed you discouraged eating whole grain bread. I really like “Ezekiel 4:9″ bread, which, to the first timer can taste like a bail of hay.

      Its ingredients (in descending order) are: organic sprouted 100% whole wheat, filtered water, organic sprouted barley, organic sprouted millet, organic malted barley, organic sprouted lentils, organic sprouted soybeans, organic sprouted spelt, fresh yeast, organic wheat gluten, sea salt, organic sesame seeds.

      It has 80 calories and 4 grams of protein in every slice.

      What do you think about this kind of bread? If you are monitoring your caloric intake would it even matter?

      Reply

    • Michelle — June 7th, 2011, 4:06 pm

      Hi just wondering about bread made from whole wheat (no white at all- grind at home) with honey.

      Reply

    • Sabrina — August 5th, 2011, 11:45 pm

      Tim

      Just curious, on the note of Whole grain…Are you familiar with Ezekiel Whole Grain Flourless Bread or Wasa multigrain crackers? Neither of those have enriched flour.

      Wasa Multi Grain Crackers

      INGREDIENTS
      Whole grain rye flour
      Water
      Sourdough
      Whole grain wheat flour
      Whole grain oat flour
      Whole grain barley flour
      Oat kernels
      Yeast
      Oat flakes
      Malt extract
      Mono- & Diglycerides (all natural emulsifiers)
      Salt

      Serving Size: 1 Slice (14g)
      Servings Per Container: about 20

      Amount Per Serving (%Daily Value)
      Calories
      45
      Calories from Fat
      0
      Total Fat
      0g (0%)
      Saturated Fat
      0g (0%)
      Trans fat
      0g
      Cholesterol
      0mg (0%)
      Sodium
      80mg (3%)
      Total Carbohydrate
      10g (3%)
      Dietary Fiber
      2g (8%)
      Sugars
      0g
      Protein
      2g
      Vitamin A
      0%
      Vitamin C
      0%
      Calcium
      0%
      Iron
      2%

      Ezekiel Whole Grain Flourless Bread

      Organic Sprouted Wheat, Filtered Water, Organic Malted Barley, Organic Sprouted Rye, Organic Sprouted Barley, Organic Sprouted Oats, Organic Sprouted Millet, Organic Sprouted Corn, Organic Sprouted Brown Rice, Fresh Yeast, Organic Wheat Gluten, Sea Salt

      I really enjoy both of these.

      Reply

    • Logan — August 8th, 2011, 11:32 am

      Tim,

      What about orowheat double fiber bread? It has only 10 net carbs, 70 calories, nothing enriched.

      WHOLE WHEAT FLOUR, WATER, SUGAR, WHEAT GLUTEN, YEAST, EXTRACT OF RAISINS, SALT, WHEAT BRAN, CRACKED WHEAT, MOLASSES, SOYBEAN OIL, CALCIUM PROPIONATE (PRESERVATIVE), SODIUM STEAROYL LACTYLATE, MONO- AND DIGLYCERIDES, CALCIUM SULFATE, HONEY, SOY LECITHIN, AZODICARBONAMIDE

      Reply

    • weightloser — October 16th, 2011, 11:22 am

      Hi, Just bought your book yesterday and reading religiously . Love the information specially the way its written. I have a one question though According to your slow diet I I have to eliminating carbs. yes I’ll lose weight bu tdont I gain all the weight back when I am done dieting. I seen one of my co worker done the “no carb diet” lost weight magically in 5 month and gain back all the weight back(even gain more may be she look bloated most of the time ) . Please advise.

      Reply

    • Kay — November 6th, 2011, 2:39 am

      Tim, my husband and I are struggling with vegetarian options for breakfast according to your slow carb diet since we don’t eat eggs/fish/meat. Please do suggest options. My husband started Kettle Bell training after it was recommended in your book, he loves it. He complains of low energy from time to time and I have no idea how to restructure our meals. Currently started a homemade fig+dates+banana+yogurt smoothie to replace cereal and toast in the morning. Otherwise ghee, lentils and veggies for meals and lots of spinach. But there is still whole wheat flour and wholemeal bread as part of our diet which I haven’t been able to shake off yet simply because it’s traditional food and I don’t know what to substitute it with that will still fill the stomach and not make us feel hungry all the time. Help!

      Reading Four Hour Work Week currently, it’s enlightening. :)

      Reply

    • Layla — March 20th, 2012, 7:30 pm

      I see you have said to use beans but all the low carb diets iv read up on have said they are high in carbs??

      Reply

    • Brad — March 30th, 2012, 5:46 am

      Hello

      Love the slow carb and it has changed my life. Thanks so much. What do you recommend if you are Bikram Yoga addict and you are on the slow carb? Bikram is pretty intense. Is there anything special I need to be doing on the diet to still lost fat? I don’t want to overtrain.

      Thanks

      Reply

  • nathan — April 11th, 2007, 1:05 pm

    All of this sounds intruiging, but what about substiuting the bread for a corn or flower tortilla, making a wrap or a buritto or sorts, and eat with tomato based salsa? I do not know about you, but A diet with tortillas and salsa could never get boring.

    Reply

  • James — April 11th, 2007, 4:32 pm

    Are there any further resources on this tye of diet? I’d like to learn more about meal options and recipes. Do these types of meals work better with any kind of spices or light sauces?

    thanks for the info.

    James

    Reply

  • Greg — April 11th, 2007, 8:27 pm

    What do you think about (lacto-ovo) Vegetarian alternatives? I’ll eat eggs, but no meat whatsoever. Think it’s safe to stick with eggs & beans?

    Reply

  • Tim Ferriss — April 12th, 2007, 1:24 am

    Hi All,

    Tortillas are not ideal, as they’re still calorically dense without much added nutritional value, but if you must have some carbs, corn is typically the least damaging.

    Salsa is outstanding, especially chunky medium spice salsa with corn, beans, etc. I can’t stand egg whites by themselves, as it’s too boring even for me, but if you just add a few spoons of salsa on top, it’s a delicious little meal (just don’t put the salsa and lentils in the same bowl, as the mix is disgusting).

    For books, I recommend “The Glucose Revolution” (http://www.amazon.com/Glucose-Revolution-Authoritative-Index-Groundbreaking/dp/1569246602/ref=sr_1_15/103-9756133-3205402?ie=UTF8&s=books&qid=1176358832&sr=1-15) and “Protein Power” (http://www.amazon.com/Protein-Power-High-Protein-Low-Carbohydrate-Health/dp/0553380788/ref=pd_bbs_sr_1/103-9756133-3205402?ie=UTF8&s=books&qid=1176358929&sr=1-1) for some good basics on low-GI eating and how protein affects hormone levels and metabolism.

    Last but not least, lacto-ovo is fine. Meat isn’t necessary, but it does make the job easier. Egg and beans will be sufficient to lose weight, but if you’re sticking to the “lacto” portion, I would also include 1% milk in combination with the eggs. Casein protein and calcium will aid in fat-loss; just don’t exceed one glass per meal, as the lactose will spill over to bodyfat past a certain point.

    Cheers,

    Tim

    Reply

    • Jordan — November 27th, 2011, 9:39 pm

      Hi Tim,
      I am curious of the work out options on here. I’m a female and I like my weight but I need to lean up quickly( 7 weeks). I need to replace about 15 pines of fat to 5 pounds of muscle, I am religiously doing the diet, started last week, but it doesn’t say how much cardio/strength training needs to be done. I do Zumba for about 45 minutes 3x a week and love it and weights 2x a week, and I’m middle Easter and love hummus! Any thoughts?

      Reply

    • Elena — January 9th, 2012, 9:57 am

      Me and my husband just started this diet and I had a question regarding a few things you are and are not allowed to consume. 1st – is it ok to use vinegar on salads as well as olives? Are nuts allowed at all? Are there any restrictions as to how much calorically should be consumed men vs woman? Can butter substitutes and spices be used?

      Reply

    • Amanda — January 23rd, 2013, 9:18 pm

      try replacing tortillas with lettuce or collard green leaves for wraps! :] yummy!

      Reply

  • jay — April 12th, 2007, 11:50 pm

    tell us more about supplementation – are you saying you can lose 20lbs in one month just from supplements?

    please share… :)

    Reply

  • Tim Ferriss — April 13th, 2007, 11:26 pm

    Hi Jay,

    That’s exactly what I’m saying. Supplements can be used for this, even if your diet and exercise is mediocre. That said, the regimen of supplements that would accomplish this would make your liver and kidneys most unhappy, as both will be affected, and the liver will be filtering most of them from your blood.

    In the next 10 days, I’ll be doing a full expose on the regimen I used to gain 34 pounds of muscle in 28 days while cutting bodyfat percentage by 4%, including supplements. Keep an eye out!

    Cheers,

    Tim

    Reply

    • brian — June 9th, 2012, 5:16 am

      Tim thank you my buddy showed me this diet! I have just lost 17 pounds in 19 days! No lie!!! 10 more to go!

      Reply

  • jay — April 16th, 2007, 12:32 am

    i’m on day 2 of your plan – if you are cool w/sharing the supplement info, would love to see it!

    thanks!

    jay

    Reply

  • Tim Ferriss — April 16th, 2007, 1:35 am

    Hi Jay,

    Congrats on jumping on the plan. I’ll suggest a few that I currently take in exchange for you keeping us all updated on your progress via comments on this post ;)

    I could recommend several hard-core thermogenics like ephedrine hydrochloride, but the trade-off in liver and kidney damage (not to mention things that few people realize, like sinuses) isn’t worth it.

    I approach the problem differently. Rather than focusing on speeding up the metabolism via adrenal hormones (adrenaline, norepinephrine, etc.), I prefer to increase insulin sensitivity. Most people get fat via a moderate “Syndrome X” of resistance to insulin, which is a storage hormone. Just google “syndrome X” and “insulin sensitivity” for more. Before bed, I take:

    200mcg (that’s micrograms, not milligrams) of chromium polynicotinate (not “picolinate”), which is niacin-bound GTF chromium; this can be found under the brand name “ChromeMate”

    500mg of slow-release niacin (nicotinic acid) under the brand name “Slo-Niacin”

    23mg of policosanol (I use Nature’s Life brand)

    1-2 glasses of red or white wine: I believe these have fat-loss properties, plus they taste great ;) Look at the research on resveratrol and other wine compounds.

    This cocktail not only aids in fat-loss, in my experience, but it lowered my total cholesterol from 222 to 147 in four weeks (!). If that is your goal, I’d also add an organic orange just prior to bed.

    Keep us posted on your progress!

    Tim

    I take another 500mg of niacin upon waking in the morning.

    Reply

    • Jennie — January 10th, 2011, 2:22 pm

      Hi Tim-
      I just asked for and got your 4-hr Body book for my Birthday. I am trying the Slow Carb diet that has been so successful for so many and pray it works for me. I LOVE Mexican so this should be ok. Questions: I think I saw somewhere that corn is ok to eat and salsa in spite of the canned tomatoes? Is the product “wholly guacamole” ok? The ingredients seem all natural enough. I am a woman, 41, in ok shape (can run 6 miles if necessary), but I bulked up over the holidays, what can I expect the 1st, second, 3rd and 4th weeks?
      Thanks Tim!

      Reply

    • Aniket Deosthali — December 15th, 2011, 11:42 am

      Hey Tim,

      so sorry to dig up an old thread but the reason I am searching is because I am taking graduate biochemistry courses in school right now and one thing I learned is the niacin inhibits hormone sensitive lipase. Given that my current goal is to lose body fat and that is the enzyme that breaks down fat in adipose tissue for energy mobilization, I searched into google “Niacin bad for fat loss” and came across this page. I am a fan of yours and read the 4 hour body already but I don’t understand how Niacin helps in fat loss if in inhibits HSL, could you please explain?

      Thanks,
      Aniket

      Reply

      • Rachel — January 15th, 2012, 9:55 am

        THis is the most important and difficult question to answer and it concerns me that an ‘expert’ doesn’t address this in detail. Be VERY careful with this diet and remember as soon as you return to normal eating habits you will gain all back and more. Be smart, choose a diet you can maintain for life and that won’t screw with your hormones.

        Reply

  • Blog » Blog Archive » — April 16th, 2007, 6:03 am

    [...] How to Lose 20 lbs. of Fat in 30 Days? Without Doing Any Exercise – The Blog of Author Tim Ferriss [...]

  • Donnie — April 17th, 2007, 11:01 pm

    Dude. Just stop eating. Seriously. You’ll go bald and stuff, but you’ll definitely lose twenty pounds as well!

    Reply

  • Nathan — April 17th, 2007, 11:08 pm

    Hi,

    I am curious about the legumes. Should I limit myself to these listed or can I elaborate into other kinds of beans? Also, are there any fruits or vegetables to avoid?
    I have around 10-12% bodyfat right now, and I am in the process of resistance training in order to gain more muscle mass. Will this diet help me gain muscle AND lose bodyfat? I look forward to your expose on your experience.

    Reply

  • Nathan — April 17th, 2007, 11:19 pm

    Sorry for leaving two in a row, but I have found more questions.
    I have been reading about slow-carb, and it says to avoid white-bread and refined cereals. The only cereal I eat is organic health cereal, ‘wheat squares’ and ‘bran’, and the only bread I eat is whole grain wheat.
    I asked about tortillas because I thought the whole wrap-instead-of-bread craze was about the low carb diet. Is there a diference between tortillas used in wraps and burritos?
    They have alot of information on low-GI diets and a refined food pyramid on mypyramid.gov and askmen.com

    Reply

  • Saho — April 18th, 2007, 2:08 am

    Dude – if you stop eating… that’s a serious eating disorder! My site can help with that!

    Reply

  • Leslie — April 18th, 2007, 12:32 pm

    I find it insane not to be able to eat any type of vegtable out there. Why only the four you’ve mentioned? Also what’s wrong with brown rice? Will I have enough energy to exercise?
    Leslie

    Reply

  • Leslie — April 18th, 2007, 12:33 pm

    Another question, do any of the supplements you mentioned cause insomnia or anxiety?

    Reply

  • Blanca Kelly — April 18th, 2007, 12:59 pm

    Hey i came across ur whole lose 20lbs in 30 days and of-course i wus intrigued. N e ways since april of last year i started working out and went from weighing 217 to now weighing 145 , by now im obsessed with fitness and nutrition . Well i dont wanna give you my life story:)but the point to all this is the whole saturdays dieters gone wild day seems to good to be true. Can i just treat myself to one chocolate bar and maybe ice cream u know stuff i normally i wouldnt eat, or is your advice to literlly stuff myself 4 dat day??

    Reply

    • Jill — June 22nd, 2011, 7:30 pm

      Hi there
      I have 70 lbs to lose – where can I get the full diet plan?

      FYI I have tried the HCG – couldn’t get past the first day on that, done the BFL diet, The Atkins, The Nutrisystem of which only the BFL worked for me in the past but I didnt keep it up because of a back surgery which prevented me from lifting the weights. Now I am desperate to rid this excess fat and weight and look normal again!

      Any help would be appreciated

      Reply

    • Michael Manu — June 27th, 2011, 8:56 am

      I just finished my first week of TSCD … The cheat day was amazing … I ate til I was stuffed and I ate anything that caught my fancy … Now it’s back to the reg 6 days and Im still down from my start weight by 1.5kg . Next “cheat” day I will only eat things that I normally would but dont on the other 6 … the 3 Krispy Kremes rally did me in : )

      Reply

  • Andrew — April 18th, 2007, 4:25 pm

    Thanks for the great article. A few questions though:

    I love my carbs, but could probably give them up if egg whites and chicken are involved. However, I hate vegetables, making the rest of the diet tough. Are there any other “normal”/non-veggie foods that could be successfully integrated into the diet?

    I’ll also echo the previous poster and ask how fruits could play in. Any particular good ones for this diet?

    Reply

  • Cody — April 18th, 2007, 5:07 pm

    “I prefer to increase insulin sensitivity”

    This is a great approach. I’ve read that cinnamon, fenugreek seed, and vinegar all have similar effects. I take 1000 mg of cinnamon per day and use either red wine or apple cider vinegar olive oil to make a salad dressing on my mixed green salad (mostly spinach though).

    Also, I’ve read that one or two drinks a day of any kind of alcohol (probably except for high sugar drinks) lowers risk of just about every disease known to man (including obesity). These positive effects stop at the third drink.

    Great article by the way!

    Reply

    • Sam — December 5th, 2012, 3:02 pm

      Ya! The Jack Danials Diet works for me. If you drink enough before you eat anything, you pass out for the rest of the day and you can’t eat when your passed out. Time for another drink. Later “)

      Reply

  • Bob — April 18th, 2007, 6:16 pm

    Hi,

    I read about your diet with interest. I do something similar, but without the beans, lentils etc.

    I have a couple of questions. Can you eat cheese and nuts with this diet? Especially cheese, because I like to snack a little with swiss cheese.

    Is fried chicken OK? Turkey bacon? When I’m traveling I eat a lot of KFC.

    What have you got against the egg yolk? Are egg yolks bad on this diet?

    Oh, I like Middle Eastern food, and they use a lot of garbonzo beans. Are they OK?

    Thanks, much appreciated.

    Bob

    Reply

  • Marion — April 19th, 2007, 12:32 am

    Dear Tim,

    It is with great interest that I write to you. I’m an opera singer from South Africa and have been struggling with weight related problems for long.

    I have recently been on a diet regime combined with Lipolytic Injections. The result was OK, but I still have at least 8Kgs to drop before finally goal weight,
    I do exercise regular by walking for an hour 4-5 times per week. And burn quite an amount of calories this way.

    Question: Why is there no fish in your diet?
    Would grilled tuna steak/Hake/Cod not be a great
    low fat protein?

    I’m looking forward to a lean mean singing machine!
    Thank you for sharing your success with us.

    Warm greetings from Cape Town

    Marion Roberts

    Q

    Reply

  • Tim Ferriss — April 19th, 2007, 2:20 am

    Wow! This post is getting out of control. I’ll do my best to answer a few of these, but with the book launch (www.fourhourworkweek.com) coming up next Tuesday, I won’t be able to give specific diet recommendations to each person. Grab the books I recommended, and you’ll be set.

    A few things:

    1. Cody, excellent observations. I use vinegar on salads, cinnamon, and even lemon in drinks to lower collective meal GI. Smart lad, you are.

    2. I never said you need to limit veggies to those I listed, but I’ve found that the more variety you try and build in, the less you stick to your diet. My diet is not designed to be fun — it’s designed to be effective. Those four are the four I’ve found to be most tolerable when eating again and again. Feel free to substitute whichever you want, but some legumes are a good ideas for sufficient calories.

    3. On MY diet (this is not to say it’s for everyone), brown rice is not OK unless within an hour after exercise. Too calorically dense and still normally high GI. Some will disagree, but here’s the thing. I’m not trying to get to 12% bodyfat (bf), I’m trying to get to 5-6%. This is HARD and requires that I be more strict that the average person.

    4. This diet is great for gaining muscle. Just up volume and ensure you get a good amount of low-GI starches (organic whole-grain brown rice or quinoa; the latter is my favorite) after training sessions. Macaroni mixed with tuna is also a great bulking meal.

    5. None of the supplements I recommended generally cause anxiety or insomnia. None are stimulants.

    6. Fruit, and fructose, are not good for fat-loss diets — period. Fructose is easily converted into fat after it spills over from the liver. I eat one organic orange before sleep to increase HDL cholesterol, but this is not for fat loss.

    7. Cheese (ideally low-fat), nuts, and occassional fried food (ideally without a ton of breading) are fine on this diet. Notice that all are protein-rich and low GI.

    Buy the books! They’re more comprehensive than I can hope to be on this post, and I apologize in advance if I can respond to more personalized requests.

    Please help each other if you can, and thanks for the discussion!

    Tim

    Reply

  • Tim Ferriss — April 19th, 2007, 2:21 am

    That should read “I apologize in advance if I CAN’T respond to more personalized requests” ;)

    Reply

  • Ron — April 19th, 2007, 3:13 am

    Im very interested in this diet, however a few quick questions.

    One, I cant stand chicken Breast that isnt properly grilled. Is it possible to grill them for a few days(lets say 8 or so) then jam them into the fridge and just heat them up quickly via the microwave or over a skillet for a few mins? or does that lose a lot of its nutrients?

    Also Im heavily swimming and doing some light lifting, and push ups. Will this diet along with Whey Protein be enough to help my body maintain itself under this strain? Arnt those all way below the fats that you need? wouldnt an avocado a day or two also help in this matter? Im quite new to this, and greatly appropriate your help.

    Lastly, how about posting some cooking instructions for us cooking impaired ;).

    I would be more then glad to take some before and after photos and stick to this regiment if it can fit into my lifestyle (IE, being able to slap something together quickly as a meal).

    Thanks.

    Reply

  • Ivan Brezak Brkan — April 20th, 2007, 1:25 am

    Hey Tim,

    Just one more question. :) Can you recommend some nutrition blogs if there are any good ones that you know of?

    Cheers and thanks in advance,
    Ivan

    Reply

  • Tom — April 20th, 2007, 7:32 pm

    ProteinPower.com/dreades is one by the guy who wrote one of the books Tim recommends.

    Reply

  • Cris — April 22nd, 2007, 4:10 pm

    Interesting article, thanks. I have a couple of questions:

    1) This diet is one of the closest I’ve seen that gets close to a “change your lifestyle” approach versus a “reach your goal” diet. However, it still has components of a “reach your goal” diet, which is destined for eventual failure for most people as it doesn’t address the behaviors or emotional reasons for over-eating. Have you written, or do you provide in your books, a “bridge” type program where you move from this diet to one that instills healthier eating habits for life? For instance, I find gorging myself on Saturdays to be a temporary diet, not a habit one should indulge in for life.

    2) You mention grass-fed beef in your article, but don’t mention why grass-fed is important (grain-fed has a higher, hidden caloric/carb content due to the corn feed, and consuming the antibiotic soup required to keep grain-fed cattle from exploding is probably also unhealthy; I’m sure there are other reasons). Is this also something you mention in your books?

    3)How do you personally use this plan? Is this how you eat all the time, or is it a temporary meal plan to reach a goal weight or bulk?

    Thanks again for the article, and I look forward to any comments you might have.

    Reply

  • Tim Ferriss — April 22nd, 2007, 5:31 pm

    Hi Cris,

    Gotta run out the door, but here are a few thoughts:

    1. I didn’t address the emotional eating concerns b/c I was just trying to explain my diet, not prescribe one to others. That said, they’re important, and I found Dr. Phil’s book (“Weight-loss Solution”?) to address this surprisingly well.

    2. Grass-fed, in addition to those reasons, has higher nutrient content, such as CLA (conjugated linoleic acid):
    http://www.americangrassfedbeef.com/grass-fed-natural-beef.asp

    3. I eat like this all the time and have for 7 years. If you don’t want to binge, there is no need to be, but I find that everyone does if they don’t cheat on their meal plans. I just preschedule it to limit the damage.

    Thanks for the good observations!

    Tim
    P.S. I’ll let you guys help each other on this post from here out. I have to focus on the book launch next Tuesday! http://www.fourhourworkweek.com

    Reply

    • afeisha — August 2nd, 2011, 12:33 pm

      hi tim i saw this diet and i think it looks pretty cool so i started and today is my second day. i live in trinidad and don”t work since im seventeen , and go to school, therefore i don’t really have access to these books so i’m basically following the diet based on what is on this page. Its my second day and i simply cant wait for saturday. its going well so far but i have some concerns:
      1) i am a teenage girl , and i am not sure if the diet is age suitable

      2) i was reading an earlier posts which stated that this diet may not work for people who are extremely overweight, which i am because i weigh 210lbs and am 5ft 11 inches. so should i continue the diet or not?

      3)exactly how much exercise do i need to do? i mean, i know when i saw the site i saw no exercise was needed, which is what attracted me to it in the first place, but im trying to up my game A LITTLE since ive seen your muscles , and everyone else seems to be quite active.

      well these are all of my concerns at the moment i hope you can answer these questions soon because i really want to lose weight , and if you dont think this diet is suitable please recommend 1 that is
      thanking you in advance,
      Afeisha

      Reply

      • Matt — September 26th, 2011, 5:04 am

        Hi Afeisha,

        This diet is entirely suitable for somebody your age and weight. Definitely give it a go.

        Re. exercise: not entirely necessary, but if you feel the need, focus on a combo of 80% low-intensity (i.e. walking) and 20% high-intensity (bodyweight training, all-out efforts (whether it be running, swimming, cross-trainer, cycling)). Should see good results.

        Go for it!

        Reply

      • Anne — October 4th, 2011, 4:30 am

        Afeisha,

        I am currently in Trinidad also and I purchased the book online. Check out the sites and you can buy the e-book to download on you computer where you can print and read it.

        Reply

      • Darrell — December 7th, 2011, 11:32 am

        Try this diet

        Korean Diet
        The dish below is a modified version of Bi Bim Bab (Pi Bim Bab). You can see the Korean style by putting “Bi Bim Bab” into the search enging and click “image”. It is one of the healthiest dishes in the world, and almost nobody who eats right in S. Korea is overweigth! I added some of my favorite vegetables because it is hard to find theirs in the USA.

        Cooked Ingredients
        Brown Rice
        Hard Boiled Eggs (Korea uses a fried egg, but I modified it)

        Raw Vegetables (Try to have multiple colors).
        I use the following: Broccoli (Rip them up until they are very small), Red Onions, Spinach, Carrots, GARLIC,

        Other Ingredients:
        Sesame or Olive Oil
        Hot Pepper Paste (I am sure you have something similar to Korean Red Paste being that you live in Trinidad)

        Reply

    • Michael — December 6th, 2011, 7:05 pm

      I’ve been on this diet for about a week now, but the biggest problem I have is the no beer rule. I know Tim does have wine, but I’d love to know exactly why beer is off limits? My thought would probably be 1) Tim says he prefers wine to beer 2) Beer tends to be high in calories (hence don’t drink your calories) 3) Beer tends to be high in carbs. Unfortunately for me, I’m an avid beer fan, and wine won’t cut it (light beer doesn’t either). Sooo what about something like Guinness Draught? It’s only 126 calories for a 12 oz serving and only about 10g carbs. There is some misleading information about beer containing a lot of maltose (very hight on the GI scale) however, maltose is mostly metabolized by the yeast during the fermentation process. Not to mention the fact that dark beer is also rich in anti-oxidants. So I guess I’m just trying self-justify drinking Guinness in place of red wine. Both options are hard to swallow for a craft beer nut like myself, but Guinness is the lesser of both evils to me. Does this pass muster, chemically/nutritionally?

      Reply

  • Any diets out there faster than atkins - Personal Development for Smart People Forums — April 23rd, 2007, 1:48 am

    [...] Your answer: » How to Lose 20 lbs. of Fat in 30 Days… Without Doing Any Exercise [...]

  • Jack brown — April 23rd, 2007, 5:48 am

    great idea , you´re right , white carboidrats sucks

    Reply

  • Dean — April 23rd, 2007, 11:57 am

    Tim,
    I just lost 23 pounds last month on the most revolting diet plan ever. If I had heard about this a month ago, I would have spared myself and my family alot of misery. Also, I just preordered the book. Congrats on a living well.

    Reply

    • esgar — January 27th, 2011, 4:04 pm

      congrads, i only lost 13 pds but was very happy with the outcome. did you eat the meals they showed on here and since am single i did have alcohol several times, does this affect the diet, and now am waling 4 miles a day.

      Reply

    • Anne — August 5th, 2011, 4:53 am

      What diet was that?

      Reply

  • The Life Ledger » Blog Archive » Tim Ferriss’ 4 Rules for losing fat without exercise — April 23rd, 2007, 11:23 pm

    [...] stumbled across Tim Ferriss’ interesting article on How to Lose 20 lbs. of Fat in 30 Days… Without Doing Any Exercise at his blog, http://fourhourworkweek.com/blog/. Usually I quickly review then ignore articles like [...]

  • Cody — April 24th, 2007, 8:01 am

    That Dr. Phil book is great! I went out and bought it on your recommendation Tim, because stress eating is a major problem for me. Thanks for pointing it out. The book by the way, is The Ultimate Weight Solution, The 7 Keys to Weight Loss Freedom.

    I also wanted to mention that you can buy eggs made by hens that were fed feeds high in Omega3 fatty acids. These things are passed down into the eggs the hens lay. It is a good (and relatively inexpensive) way to get additional omega3s into your diet.

    Reply

  • Frank Pelkey — April 24th, 2007, 11:38 am

    Is this diet good for your health?

    Thanks,

    Frank

    Reply

  • Links for 26-Apr-2007 « The Blog That Should Not Be — April 26th, 2007, 7:13 am

    [...] » How to Lose 20 lbs. of Fat in 30 Days… Without Doing Any Exercise  [...]

  • Cody — April 26th, 2007, 9:38 am

    Frank, this diet is very healthy. It contains lots of vegetables, healthy, lean proteins, and refined starches/sugars are almost nonexistant. Everyone can benefit from a diet like this. Eating this way will even out bloodsugar, provide lots of phytonutrients, is high fiber, and offers quite a few essential fatty acids.

    I personally would consider this a method of eating that is sustainable for the rest of your life (which will also probably be a considerably longer life eating this way).

    That being said, if you are suffering from type 2 diabetes or are borderline, you may want to restrict all carbs for a few weeks/months and then gradually move to this type of diet.

    Also, someone who is extremely overweight/highly metabolically resistant might still not lose weight on a high-protein/moderate fat/slow carb diet. The reason being that protein can be converted to glucose (from what I understand). Fat however, cannot. Your body can burn fat directly. This is why some diets (like atkins) stress lots of fat in the beginning. You don’t want to be eating lots of lard, though. :) When your body no longer has any glucose left (this can take from two to six days because your muscles store a form of sugar for energy called glycogen), it will switch to fat burning mode full time. This may very likely be unpleasant at first, but you get used to it, and its temporary to fix your body’s insulin resistance. Contrary to some folks’ opinion (probably all carb addicts by the way), this state (ketosis) is not dangerous to a healthy individual. They mix up ketosis with a dangerous state caused by kidney failure called ketoacidosis. Not the same thing. Also, there has been no record of a low carb, high protein diet causing kidney failure in a previously healthy individual, ever.

    Bottom line, if you are only moderately overweight (i.e. not morbidly obese), then this diet should work great for you, in combination with regular strength training and aerobic exercise. If you are morbidly obese, then I’d suggest looking at a diet like this as your long term goal. In my opinion, you want to start out much more restrictive on the carbs, eat lots of healthy fats and protein, and work your way up to this type of eating as your long term maintenance/lifestyle plan.

    For more information, pick up Dr. Atkins’ book. I highly recommend it. Most folks seems to miss Dr. Atkins’ point that you want to start out with a highly restrictive diet and move to include slow carbs in phases. The highly restrictive diet helps to eliminate your sugar/carb cravings and increase insulin sensitivity. It kind of tears you down and builds you back up in a healthy way. By the end of the diet, you’ll be eating lots of berries, nuts, beans, and other healthy carbs, once you are moving towards life-time maintenance mode. It also stresses whole foods and lots of vegetables.

    I’m not a doctor or a nutritionist, just someone who has had a weight problem their whole life, done a lot of research, and who is trying to be as healthy as possible.

    Reply

  • Deltron — April 26th, 2007, 10:50 am

    Thought I’d let you guys know, I started this diet on Monday and I’ve already lost close to 4lbs. I am 29 years old and I started this diet weighing in at 229, now I’m close to 225. I am very active, training for a muay thai kickboxing fight in Nov. where I have to be around 185 (my goal weight). It’s imperative to me that I do not lose muscle or cardiovascular strength during my weight reduction period.

    So far I am very pleased with this diet, I weigh myself every morning and each morning, I have lost another pound. We’ll see how long I can keep that up till I start to plateau.

    I have also modified the diet somewhat. For example I do not limit myself to the veggies that are recommended above… I eat a salad with oil and vinegar mainly. For my post workout meal I like to eat a peanut butter sandwich on whole wheat bread, and a chocolate chip cookie (so I do crave it later) or some fruit (I really feel that fruits are vital to good nutrition… and I happen to really love mangos)and cottage cheese (all small proportions).

    I can say that I have been feeling very hungry between meals and I know that my caloric load his drastically decreased due to this diet. However, I have not seen a drop in my training performance, which is surprising as I have normally felt fatigued during low carb diets.

    I am also trying to lift weights or do some form of cardio for at least 20 mins a day, but normally I train at least an hour a day.

    This diet is not for the faint of heart. It’s been 3 days and I’m already getting tired of all these damn beans (my girlfriend too is tired of the beans, but for different reasons). I’m craving carbs pretty hardcore, I can’t even watch a pizza commercial. But all in all, I’m glad to see results so quickly and I intend on maintaining this diet for the next few weeks. I’ll let you all know how it’s going. Wish me luck.

    Thanks again

    Del

    Reply

  • Deltron — April 26th, 2007, 10:52 am

    Thought I’d let you guys know, I started this diet on Monday and I’ve already lost close to 4lbs. I am 29 years old and I started this diet weighing in at 229, now I’m close to 225. I am very active, training for a muay thai kickboxing fight in Nov. where I have to be around 185 (my goal weight). It’s imperative to me that I do not lose muscle or cardiovascular strength during my weight reduction period.

    So far I am very pleased with this diet, I weigh myself every morning and each morning, I have lost another pound. We’ll see how long I can keep that up till I start to plateau.

    I have also modified the diet somewhat. For example I do not limit myself to the veggies that are recommended above… I eat a salad with oil and vinegar mainly. For my post workout meal I like to eat a peanut butter sandwich on whole wheat bread, and a chocolate chip cookie (so I do crave it later) or some fruit (I really feel that fruits are vital to good nutrition… and I happen to really love mangos)and cottage cheese (all small proportions).

    I can say that I have been feeling very hungry between meals and I know that my caloric load his drastically decreased due to this diet. However, I have not seen a drop in my training performance, which is surprising as I have normally felt fatigued during low carb diets.

    I am also trying to lift weights or do some form of cardio for at least 20 mins a day, but normally I train at least an hour a day.

    This diet is not for the faint of heart. It’s been 3 days and I’m already getting tired of all these damn beans (my girlfriend too is tired of the beans, but for different reasons). I’m craving carbs pretty hardcore, I can’t even watch a pizza commercial. But all in all, I’m glad to see results so quickly and I intend on maintaining this diet for the next few weeks. I’ll let you all know how it’s going. Wish me luck.

    Thanks again

    Del

    Reply

  • Eleanor — April 26th, 2007, 2:15 pm

    A thank you to TIm for a glimmer of hope – something that seems doable. Trying for variety and not being BORED has always tripped me up in the past. I am excited to begin with SIMPLE.

    I also want to say thank you for giving me the impetus to DO something. So often I read a diet book or a blog and think “yah, I should do that. Sounds hard though. Who am I kidding? I’ll never do that.” But what Tim is describing makes me think “That I could do.”

    That said, I’ll have to keep you posted.

    Best of luck to all you seekers.

    Reply

  • Randy Bradshaw — April 26th, 2007, 7:52 pm

    I used muscle milk protein powder 3 times a day to get the protein I need (1 gram per pound of body weight). Any problems?

    Randy

    Reply

  • Frank — April 26th, 2007, 8:25 pm

    Cody-

    Thanks for getting back with a reply. I am going to give the diet a shot, except maybe expand the list of veggies a bit for variety’s sake. I’ll start in two weeks when I finish school for good. It would be virtually impossible right now, as I routinely put in 80-100 hour weeks between grad school and work. I wish you absolutely the best in your quest to stay healthy!

    Frank

    PS – Tim’s book is quite good – lots and lots of food for thought!!!

    Reply

  • Randy Bradshaw — April 27th, 2007, 12:00 am

    Tim,

    I can’t stand beans because of something that took place in my childhood. I am hoping that eliminating the “white” products is more important than eating the beans. Your thoughts?

    Randy

    Reply

  • Cody — April 27th, 2007, 3:50 pm

    Frank,
    I would think that any non-starchy vegetable would be ok. I think Tim’s point is that his diet is a no-brainer. He probably has almost the same exact grocery list from week to week. You’ve got the gist, though.

    Randy,
    I’d double check the carb content on that Muscle Milk. It looks like it has about 10 grams of carbs per serving (not counting fiber). That’s 30 grams per day you probably don’t need on this diet, but depending on your goals, it shouldn’t be a big deal.

    I’m not Tim, but the benefit of the beans is that traditional low-carb diets are lower in fiber and very low in carbs. Beans, becuase of their high fiber content and high protein are not going to cause a massive spike in blood sugar. You’ll need a food that delivers something similar. I.E. complex carbs, fiber, and protein.

    Have you ever tried quinoa? This is a seed from south america that was a staple food of the Incans. It is a pretty good slow carb food. Also steel cut oats with some kind of protein powder might suit this purpose for breakfast.

    Also Randy, does this dislike of beans extend to all beans, or can you stomach black beans? I’m assuming your issues from childhood may be from Navy or pinto beans?

    Reply

  • Jay — April 27th, 2007, 6:12 pm

    I don’t like or eat meat of any kind; so eggs, cheese, canned tuna and nuts are my main source of protein. How can I adapt this diet to suit me?

    Reply

  • Frank — April 28th, 2007, 9:21 am

    This is probably a dumb question, but is it okay to have a bit of butter with the vegetables, or are they best eaten dry? Also, I do see the logic of keeping things simple. On the other hand, I usually have a nice garden every summer, so I tend to have a variety of veggies on hand.

    Frank

    PS Quinoa rocks!

    Reply

    • drhoney — November 16th, 2013, 11:21 am

      Ghee is clarified butter. Ghee is very good for health and also it lowers LDL cholesterol.I get horizon butter and melt it slowly for 15 min till it changes it color to light brown and store it. Ghee has lot of importance in Indian foods. Infants are always fed with ghee mixed with everything. Ghee also improves memory . The difference BTW ghee and butter is their chemical structure (carbon bonds). Ghee is super healthy and i use ghee daily. If u are using ghee , lessen your olive oil.My BMI is normal but i want to get my BMI to 20 which is closer to the lower range of normal BMI.
      Any suggestions are welcome , especially TIM

      Reply

  • Cody — April 28th, 2007, 10:12 pm

    I wouldn’t think that a bit of butter would hurt anything.

    Gardening is great. You get so many rewards from it. Excercise, lots of sun, fresh air, and great food.

    Also, from a pure biological perspective, the wider variety of food an organism eats, the healthier that organism usually is.

    I think Tim’s examples are really his preferences. We are an adaptive species. The idea is to eat good, natural sources of protein, lots of veggies, and slow carbs. You can mix and match to your hearts desire and with whatever you have on hand.

    Tim’s recommendation on having the same thing over and over is a sound one, though. I’ve read and heard that people who are succesful at losing weight and keeping it off, tend to have the same thing for breakfast EVERY SINGLE DAY. Its a no brainer. You start your day off right, build up some positive momentum, and its easier to make good choices the rest of the day.

    Something I’d like to point out as well is that recent studies have shown that the saturated fat in eggs and diary does NOT raise your risk of heart attack and stroke. They do raise LDL levels, but the LDL molecules are larger and don’t pose any risk.

    I really believe that in a few years, the medical and nutritional community will come around to the low-carb/slow-carb way of thinking. Its all about insulin and blood sugar control. Its not about how much fat you eat. Butter never killed anyone. Stress and white bread? Now that’ll kill ya…

    Reply

  • zach even - esh — April 28th, 2007, 10:58 pm

    Tim

    That is awesome you train at AKA!

    Have you ever seen my articles in Tap Out mag?

    I co presented w/Randy Couture at the Arnold Sports Fest on MMA Conditioning the day before he defeated tim sylvia, it was awesome.

    Your books is rockin’ my world!

    Keep kicking ass and hope to chat soon!

    –Zach–

    NJ native!

    Reply

  • Losing 20 lbs. in 30 Days | Julie Anne Bonner — April 29th, 2007, 6:55 am

    [...] was reading Tim Ferris’s blog and came across this title: How to Lose 20 lbs. of Fat in Thirty Days…Without Doing Any Exercise. I really don’t like to exercise, so this sounded perfect for me. I know that I need to [...]

  • Julie — April 29th, 2007, 7:03 am

    Okay, so I am changing my eating habits starting today (Sunday, April 29th). I had my pig out day yesterday. :) I am also fatblogging: http://julieannebonner.com/losing-20-lbs-in-30-days/ So, I am hoping that will help keep me motivated too.

    My husband and I are enjoying your blog and we just ordered your book last night. My husband has 3 motnhs left in the Air Force. We are very excited! He has started a business of his own and we are very happy that we found you to help guide us on this path of giving ourselves and our kids the life we have dreamed of. More time with the family is a big reason he is getting out of the military.

    Thanks Tim!

    Reply

  • Blaine Moore (Run to Win) — April 29th, 2007, 1:30 pm

    I don’t think that I would do very well with this diet. I prefer to eat the majority of my calories through bread, pasta and rice. I have about a 5.5% body fat, and weigh about 140-145 pounds most of the year. I do run a lot, as well as cross train a lot; any time that I stop workout out, I lose weight too fast and have trouble getting it back. I like the concept, though, and will certainly plan some meals around it.

    Reply

  • » From Geek to Freak: How I Gained 34 lbs. of Muscle in 4 Weeks — April 29th, 2007, 9:44 pm

    [...] Eat enormous quantities of protein (much like my current fat-loss diet) with low-glycemic index carbohydrates like quinoa, but drop calories by 50% one day per week to [...]

  • Steve — April 29th, 2007, 10:11 pm

    According to bodybuilding legened (the late) Mike Mentzer, a calorie is a calorie. Therefore it shouldn’t really matter where you get your calories from. Ellington Darden (of HIT fame) and Clarence Bass (5% bodyfat at 65 years of age) also recommends a high carb, moderate protein, moderate fat eating plan to lose fat and/or build muscle. This is very much like Blaine Moore’s (above) dietary habits and they seem to work very well.
    I personally find it much easier to stick to a high carb diet where I control my calories. My complete exercise plan also consists of resistance training and walking for 45 minutes every day and I am happy with my results so far. Tim’s ideas have a lot of merit, but I find my method easier to stay with.

    Reply

  • Pickel — April 30th, 2007, 7:53 am

    Any suggestions for those of us allergic to eggs? Use egg substitute?

    Frank, try Ghee, an Indian substitute for Butter without the casein.

    Reply

    • Namisha — May 12th, 2012, 7:02 am

      I’m Indian so I know for a fact that ghee is terrible for you!! It’s just pure fat with no nutrients. I’d say you would be better off with just plain butter.

      Reply

    • drhoney — November 16th, 2013, 11:15 am

      Ghee is clarified butter. Ghee is very good for health and also it lowers LDL cholesterol.I get horizon butter and melt it slowly for 15 min till it changes it color to light brown and store it. Ghee has lot of importance in Indian foods. Infants are always fed with ghee mixed with everything. Ghee also improves memory . The difference BTW ghee and butter is their chemical structure (carbon bonds). Ghee is super healthy and i use ghee daily. If u are using ghee , lessen your olive oil.My BMI is normal but i want to get my BMI to 20 which is closer to the lower range of normal BMI.
      Any suggestions are welcome , especially TIM

      Reply

  • Chris Harris — April 30th, 2007, 9:59 am

    The Keto diet is a god-send. I’ve been on and off for a year, and it works! Eating increased fats (healthy, mind you) and reduced carbs –no beans even– can harbor roughly 5-8lbs per week lost. Stick with roughly 20g or less a day. My lifts have greatly increased, too. Anyone looking to lose fat fast MUST try this. After reading this, I plan to apply the lift methods listed to see if I can increase my overall LBM while still dropping BF.

    Butter, olive oil, cream cheese, avacados, etc are all your friend on this diet. My overall blood work IMPROVED on this diet as well. It also helps to increase test production in males.

    Reply

  • Sell Your Motorcycle — April 30th, 2007, 3:12 pm

    I have to ask (and am surprised after 63 posts nobody has yet) but if we can at least agree that weight loss is primarily an equation of calories in versus calories spent, (we can, right?) why isn’t there a limit on the number of calories one should limit themselves to? Is it because it’s expected you can’t eat beyond the limit of the calories you need to lose weight when you’re eating 10 cups of spinach to match that old 1/2 cup of rice?

    In any case, I’m game. I’ll give this a try and report back the progress in 4 posts (one a week). Starting at 205/6’1″ today.

    Tim, bought the book today after seeing your FSB write-up this weekend. Already turned about 5 others onto it. Thank you!

    Reply

    • DanD — July 23rd, 2011, 12:02 pm

      It’s kind of freaky, but your starting starting stats are my goal height and weight. Right now I’m 5’9″ and 260 pounds. Wish me luck, okay?

      Reply

  • Dave — April 30th, 2007, 3:17 pm

    Thanks for the eating advice, I have some questions:

    1. Can you suggest any other foods that will work in the place of the beans? I really don’t like beans very much. Is the purpose of them in this just to get the caloric content up? If so, would I be ok in substituting more protein and fat in place of the beans?

    2. Can you really eat any starch that you want if its right after a workout? So, for example, if I spent a half hour doing bodyweight exercises like squats, push ups, pull ups and the like would it then be acceptable on this plan to go out and have a big cheese burger and fries?

    3. What kind of calorie level are you sticking to on the Saturday blow out cheat day?

    Thanks!

    Reply

  • Lorraine — May 1st, 2007, 12:53 am

    It took me 2 years to lose 65 pounds. I was looking great and then last August 2006 I had a heart attack. Is this diet O.K. to use for a person like myself who has heart disease now and who has been putting weith back on since the heart attack. I have regained 20 pounds and feel myself losing ground. I am not as active anymore and I find that the medications are making me have some water weight gain and I am craving sweets. I know I will get back on track and am reading articles on ways to lose the pounds. Do you have any recommendations for a women in my situation. I am 52 years old. I do not want to go to weight watchers but feel a buddy system would work for me . Thanyou for the good info and pictures in your article. I found it to be a fresh look for me at a way to start back on the weight loss plan. Thanks so much for getting the word out there about ways to do this sensibly.

    Reply

  • Time To Get Fit » How To Lose 20 lbs Of Fat In 30 Days — May 1st, 2007, 6:06 am

    [...] Of more interest to us here, though, he recently posted an article on How To Lose 20 lbs Of Fat In 30 Days. [...]

  • Massandra — May 1st, 2007, 11:17 am

    Hi Tim,

    I love your regimen. I am 5ft 6ins and weighs 140lb. Most of the weight is in my stomach. I do not know if this diet would help my stomach or will it take fat off of my entire body. I don’t want to loose weight from any other part of my body because I am skinny as people would say. Do you think that I can loose the fat off of my stomach from this diet? Please advise.

    Reply

  • blipdot » HOW TO LOSE 20 POUNDS IN 30 DAYS — May 1st, 2007, 11:26 am

    [...] Tim Ferriss has a great post about how he lost 20 pounds in 30 days without doing any exercise. It should be noted, that he actually DOES exercise – but the tips that he gives are nonetheless pretty solid. The best part is that his method doesn’t seem to require as big of a lifestyle change as most diets. You’d have to change what you eat but not how much or how often you eat. [...]

  • Julie — May 1st, 2007, 11:57 am

    Just a little update…today is tues, started changing eating habits sunday. I have lost 6 pounds already!! I accused my husband of messing with the scale. He promised he didn’t touch it. :)

    Late in the evening around 10 I have been getting pretty hungry, but I just pour myself a glass of wine and forget all about it.

    I am so pumped!!

    Reply

  • topGrubs.com — May 1st, 2007, 1:02 pm

    How to Lose 20 lbs. of Fat in 30 Days… Without Doing Any Exercise…

    t is possible to lose 20 lbs. of bodyfat in 30 days by optimizing any of three factors: exercise, diet, or drug/supplement regimen. I’ve seen the elite implementation of all three in working with professional athletes. In this post, we’ll explore a…

  • TopGrubs — May 1st, 2007, 1:37 pm

    Great article!
    I am going to try it today and see how long I can last.
    Thank you

    Reply

  • Dave M — May 1st, 2007, 5:49 pm

    I absolutely LOVE hummus (hommus) with cut-up raw veggies like cucumbers, peppers, carrots, broccoli, cauliflower, etc. So much so, in fact, that I could probably eat it every day and not get tired of it. Do you think it would be OK to eat that much hummus and veggies? I’m just not sure about the fat content due to the olive oil and sesame paste. And wouldn’t the chickpeas contain a good amount of protein?

    I would still throw in eggs, chicken breast, and some beans every now and then?? Of course, I would also look forward to the freebie day! :-)

    Reply

  • Blog » Blog Archive » — May 1st, 2007, 6:06 pm

    [...] How to Lose 20 lbs. of Fat in 30 Days? Without Doing Any Exercise [...]

  • Pearl — May 1st, 2007, 6:49 pm

    Wow. My main mental note from this being – don’t publish a diet online! Or at least do it anonymously.

    The (“quick”) *questions*!
    What’s the nutritional content of ‘blahed’ chicken??
    Ummmm… yay for google?

    Still, some good points, or rather, reminders. I should get back into having legumes and specifically, lentil curries more often – I really do love dhal, and that used to be my major protein source, second only to rice for calories, although since I’m not _really_ trying to diet, I’ll stick with brown rice with curries. Or save it for after workouts? Hmmmm…

    The one thing I didn’t think I could do was – no whole grain bread? (no *vogels*?!)
    But, I read further…
    They put corn syrup in the bread over there? Ewww!
    Thank christ (allah / shiva / buddha / brigid) I live in NZ.
    *Googling:* The GI of my favourite toast is 36 , so I’m happy to stick with that and use it with the verrrry handy breakfast protein recommendation (I’m so not into breakfast cereals – well actually, I’m good with ACTUAL rice or corn for breakfast), and go for beans on toast, or tofu-miso-vege soup for brekkie.

    Reply

  • Susan Parsons MD — May 1st, 2007, 8:30 pm

    Congratulations on an interesting and stimulating post, Tim! Your weight loss plan is very effective because it makes sense biochemically and you have succeeded in customizing it to your needs and tastes. I agree that the slow carb approach is much more effective than just eating the typical American diet and counting calories. Controlling insulin is a key principle to remember when trying to lose weight. Automating your food choices is a great plan. It obviously worked for you! I’m looking forward to reading more of your posts and “life experiments�. I’ve ordered your book since it looks intriguing.

    Reply

  • Joe — May 1st, 2007, 9:47 pm

    Del…

    I hope the results are still positive. I also weight train and would like to preserve as much muscle as possible during my cut. I’m 190 now, looking to be around 175…then build up with excess calories using the modified mass building side of this program…we’ll see how it goes.

    Joe

    Reply

  • Bob — May 1st, 2007, 10:12 pm

    I just finished my first week on this diet. First some background.

    I’ve been dieting for years, but since I read Atkins and the South Beach Diet (The Zone, etc.) I have been doing mostly low carbs.

    About 7 months ago I started my diet. I begin by consuming NO CARBS for two weeks to kick start things. I also fast one day a week. Fasting is no big deal and once you get used to it and you kind of look forward to your “fast” day. I went from 218 to 198 and then I kind of went off the diet.

    This Sunday (my cheat day) I had my first banana, raisins and sandwich in 7 months.

    I have to say when I read about this diet there was no way I thought it could work–at least for me. My metabolism is slower than a tortoise running uphill. But what the heck.

    I can’t eat beans on my old diet because they are high in carbs, but I dove in. Lots of beans, eggs,(I eat the yolks) and chicken. I also have the occasional whey protein shake. I don’t eat red meat.

    On my cheat day I don’t go crazy with the cake and ice cream, but I just eat the carbs I like the most. This Sunday I had oatmeal, bananas and raisins and a bagel for breakfast. For lunch I had a sandwich, and for dinner sushi.

    I lost one pound for the week. I know my body pretty well, and I could tell I wasn’t losing much weight, but I will say this: if I lose one pound a week eating this way I’ll take it. In ten weeks that’s ten pounds, so I’m not going to give up quite yet. I’ll give it a month and see what happens. A four or five pound weight loss for the month I’ll consider a success.

    I knew there was no way I could lose 20 lbs. of fat in one month, but I sure did enjoy myself on Sunday.

    Reply

  • Bobby — May 1st, 2007, 11:13 pm

    Tim,
    you exclude rice from your diet but I thought that rice was a slow card diet. Many professional body builders have rice and chicken as principal constituents of their diets. What do you think?

    Reply

  • Ashley — May 1st, 2007, 11:24 pm

    Hey there Tim. I stumbled across this and it seems promising. I have 30 days until a much anticipated vacation, and though it has been planned for months my attempts for weight loss have failed. I have printed your rules and plan on getting on the serious boat first thing. However I was wondering about having that combination each time in a meal. Such as the eggs, beans and veggis. I raely eat breakfast and when I do its been a peice of toast or fruit. I am not sure if I can eat all of it. Also are we not allowed fruit!? Thanks in advance.

    Reply

  • Norman — May 2nd, 2007, 12:58 am

    I have looked at many websites about weight loss et c. but I have to find one that is suitable for people over 50 : the age when you have to start considering gout [uric acid level] as important as anything – basically it means no legumes and care to be taken with the type and quantity of meat.
    If you know of such a site I would be interested to look at it.

    Reply

  • Michael — May 2nd, 2007, 2:26 am

    Are there any bread-ish foods that can be eaten? Like a tapioca/flax bread? I really want something I can bake in bulk (with my bread machine if possible).

    Reply

  • Cody — May 2nd, 2007, 6:10 am

    Blaine,
    When I was younger, I’d run 6 miles three times per week, and even with this small amount of running, I could eat pretty much whatever I wanted without gaining weight. Of course, I was in my early 20′s too. Not sure now that I’m past 30 that this would work quite as well. :) Oddly enough, when I did run that much, I didn’t really want crappy food. I actually craved vegetables. I ate a lot of white rice and garden burgers. After my runs, I would drink a half gallon of OJ and eat 3 bran muffins. Still lost weight.

    Julie and Bob, congratulations on your success!

    I’m doing basically phase I of Atkins currently and recently broke through a plateu. I’ve lost 20 pounds in the last month, giving me a grand total of 37 pounds lost in the last 6 months. I’ve only been going at it serious for the last month, though.

    I really look forward to switching over to Tim’s diet, though. I love beans. I also miss my smoothies (lowish carb of course, with strawberries, blueberries, walnuts, whey, yogurt, pomegranite juice, and cocoa powder – it was an antioxidant coctail).

    Reply

  • Stephany — May 2nd, 2007, 12:20 pm

    Hi- My brother competed in the Ford Iron Man in Hawaii this past October. He did this after going from 400lbs to 230lbs with diet and intense exercise. He is having a hard time though keeping the weight off even though he is consistently competing in marathons, triathlons etc… Would this diet be okay for him with how much he competes?

    Reply

  • the 20-euro diet « transitory residence — May 2nd, 2007, 2:24 pm

    [...] to Tim Ferriss (who gained 34 lbs of muscle in a month), repetition in meals is good for losing body fat. (And [...]

  • Renee — May 2nd, 2007, 4:03 pm

    I do not recommend eating whatever you want or cheating once a week. I myself did this and eventually I feel off my diet and gained my weight back. Now I do what is called a “refeed,” instead of cheating and I do it every 2 weeks. I will continue doing this until my body fat levels are lower. Once they are lower, I will refeed more often.

    More information on refeeding can be found here: http://www.bodybuilding.com/fun/sclark60.htm
    http://www.bodybuilding.com/fun/ian7.htm

    Also, whether you choose to refeed or cheat, obese individuals should do it every two weeks to see faster results.

    Reply

    • Ann — June 27th, 2012, 2:48 pm

      Thank you Renee!!! I have been low carbing for about 8 years now. I am on day one of Tim’s plan and am very hopeful. The refeeding makes so much sen
      se to me! I’d never heard of it before and will do more reading. I plan on incorporating it… As guessed, lc has leveled out for me and I seriously needed a boost for my eating lifestyle.

      Ann

      Reply

  • Cody — May 2nd, 2007, 7:09 pm

    Renee, I agree with you. I have a cheat meal once a week. Otherwise I personally feel like I’m losing forward momentum. Kind of a two steps forward, one step back type of thing.

    Reply

  • Renee — May 2nd, 2007, 10:05 pm

    I forgot to mention above^^: When I was on my old diet of having a cheat meal once a week, I did not have my period for about 7 months. Now that I am refeeding instead, my period has returned to normal.

    Reply

  • The Life Ledger » Blog Archive » Stumbleupon.com - discovering hidden health sites — May 3rd, 2007, 4:07 pm

    [...] How to Lose 20 lbs. of Fat in 30 Days… Without Doing Any Exercise (stumble reviews) – while I typically ignore “lose weight fast” type articles, this one by Tim Ferriss was worth reading. I wrote a response, modifying Tim’s rules to be more compatible with lifestyle change. [...]

  • Dennis Law — May 3rd, 2007, 8:52 pm

    Good healthy recipes in free download book starting at page 86

    http://cancerproject.org/resources/handbook.php

    Example:

    Easy Bean Salad
    Serves 10
    1/2 cup low-fat Italian salad dressing
    1 15-ounce can kidney beans, drained and rinsed
    1 15-ounce can pinto beans, drained and rinsed
    1 15-ounce can black-eyed peas, drained and rinsed
    1 10-ounce frozen package fordhook lima beans, thawed completely
    1 cup frozen corn, thawed completely
    1 large red bell pepper, diced
    1/2 medium onion, diced
    1 teaspoon salt
    1 teaspoon pepper
    Toss all ingredients together. Serve cold or at room temperature. May be
    covered and stored in the refrigerator for several days.

    Reply

  • Dennis Law — May 3rd, 2007, 9:03 pm

    I did a Google search on the word “refeeding” and the results seem to associate it with some kind of eating disorder…

    Reply

  • Ben — May 3rd, 2007, 10:58 pm

    What about popcorn?

    Reply

  • Hello. My name is … » links for 2007-05-04 — May 4th, 2007, 8:14 am

    [...] » How to Lose 20 lbs. of Fat in 30 Days… Without Doing Any Exercise (tags: weightloss tim ferris) [...]

  • Meredith — May 4th, 2007, 12:44 pm

    I would also like to know about vegetarian alternatives. There’s got to be some way to work this without meat…?

    Reply

  • jen — May 4th, 2007, 3:03 pm

    is the jury out on fruit? is this an “after workout only” food?
    *with this question I am asking about fruit in moderation — and I understand the fruit juice restriction.

    Reply

  • JeeJo — May 4th, 2007, 3:26 pm

    From step #4…
    “..but drop calories by 50% one day per week to prevent protein uptake downregulation.”

    Can you give more details on this? What is the story on this downregulation?

    Also which day is best to do this on? Considering that I am guessing the Saturday when you eat what you want would tend to be an above average day for calories compared to the other days when you are restricting your diet to low-GI and high protein.

    Reply

    • Ernie — June 14th, 2011, 7:08 pm

      Dropping calories by 50% once per week is not in the book. The only mentions I can find are other people saying to do it, not a direct quote from Tim.

      Reply

  • Angela — May 4th, 2007, 5:32 pm

    I’m on Day 8 and I’m out. I’ve lost 2 pounds, but I’m pretty sure that would have happened by just giving up sugary treats — I’ve more than made up the caloric difference in increased protein foods. My mood has been nasty, I’ve had headaches all week, my workouts have been hellish, and I’ve been absolutely obsesssed with food.

    Good things: I’ve looked forward to my weight-lifting so I could enjoy my couscous afterwards, and it’s done wonders for curbing my craving for sweet treats.

    Maybe this works better for the guy who is building up, rather than the girl who just wants to sleek down. Best wishes to you, Tim, and the others who give it a try, but I’m heading to Trader Vic’s for some crab puffs! Heavy on the puff!

    Reply

  • Present Tensed » Links/Articles that Intrigued Me between April 29th and May 2nd — May 4th, 2007, 8:00 pm

    [...] » How to Lose 20 lbs. of Fat in 30 Days? Without Doing Any Exercise : SR: I find these plans to be fascinating. I don’t like myself (or is it the other way around?) enough to try one of these regimens [...]

  • JB — May 6th, 2007, 1:06 pm

    What abut for vegetarians? How can one do this diet and still get the protein they need? I’m a rather new vegetarian and still eat fish occasionally, but would love to try this diet. What do I need to buy to substitute for the chicken, grass-fed beef, and pork?

    Thanks!

    Reply

  • lesliem — May 6th, 2007, 2:33 pm

    Great diet. Maybe I missed it but I didn’t see anything mentioned about adding oils- good oils like olive, flax are an essential part of any diet. I’d add up to two tb a day.

    I did a similar “diet” last month, but included a half a grapefruit before each meal (studies suggest this can aide weight loss), and went down one size in two weeks.

    Also, I don’t eat meat but do eat fish and dairy so I just substitute fish, and sometimes a small piece of cheese, or a few raw nuts, for protein. I also use hemp protein powder for snacks.

    I definitely think eating anything you want one day per week helps with weight loss. It can actually boost metabolism. I always lose more if I “shock’ my system like this.

    Finally, I notice if I eat like this, after about a week, my appetite goes way, way down. No cravings, overeating, etc. I don’t eat a lot of junk anyway, but this way of eating, more than a quick way to lose weight, seems like a great long term way to eat and keep body fat regulated.

    Reply

  • Ira’s Blog » New Diet — May 6th, 2007, 8:45 pm

    [...] How to Lose 20 lbs. of fat in 30 days [...]

  • Jim (PFT/SCT) — May 7th, 2007, 6:15 pm

    While the Atkins/low-carb diet may work for some, I can tell you that it doesn’t work for all. My wife tried it, and ended up with her first (and last) kidney stone. As it turns out (we found out from her doctor later), anyone prone to kidney stones should avoid the Atkins diet. (But if you’ve never had a kidney stone before, then…?)

    Anyway, there are a number of posts here I’d like to comment on. Instead, I think I’d rather reference the following diet book:

    Ultrametabolism, by Mark Hyman, M.D.

    (Yes, he’s a bona fide physician!)

    The book has 3 Parts, and the first part alone (“The 7 Myths That Make You Gain Weight”) has the following seven chapters:

    Chapter 1: The Starvation Myth: Eat Less Exercise More = Weight Loss

    Chapter 2: The Calorie Myth: All Calories Are Created Equal

    Chapter 3: The Fat Myth: Eating Fat Makes You Fat

    Chapter 4: The Carb Myth: Eating Low Carb or No Carb Will Make You Thin

    Chapter 5: The Sumo Wrestler Myth: Skipping Meals Helps You Lose Weight

    Chapter 6: The French Paradox Myth: The French Are Thin Because They Drink Wine and Eat Butter

    Chapter 7: The Protector Myth: Government Policies and Food Industry Regulations Protect Our Health

    Amazon link:

    http://tinyurl.com/3dxng5

    You can also find some free tidbits on his website (just Google the name of the book).

    Truth be told, I’m not a shill for Dr Hyman, but I have to say that I found his book to be quite enlightening (and chock full of professional references). In spite of the tech references, he manages to keep the book interesting, although admittedly sounding a little repetitive at times. His is the first time I’ve ever seen a reference to the latest wisdom of the adipose tissue now being treated/categorized as an endocrine organ. (Hope my memory got that detail right.) No, I don’t need to lose weight; if anything, I could stand to put a few pounds on, at least in terms of lean muscle mass (but that’s another thread). I do appreciate the insights given in this book, though. Check the Amazon link, maybe you’ll see a comment or a review which will pique your interest.

    I wouldn’t recommend Dr Hyman’s book for anyone who is looking for an “instant remedy in 25 words or less”, but rather for someone looking to better understand why their body is the way it is and how to get ahead of the curve through lifestyle changes. And rather than just saying “this is what you need to do to change your life”, you get the nitty gritty understanding of *why* through a better (and admittedly rather geeky, but I’d rather have a bit too much info than too little info) understanding of the metabolic processes. And if you’re the type who enjoys reading technical references and studies, he makes copious references in about 10 pages towards the end of his book.

    Oh yeah, he provides some recipes, if you’re in need of a leg-up there, plus a multi-page listing of vitamins, supplements and the like summarized towards the back as well.

    Anyhoo, sorry if this sounds like an advert. Just thought someone else might benefit, if they’re into cuddling up with a nice technical read. ;-) (I’m making perhaps too much about it being ‘technical’… it really is reasonably digestible (no pun intended.)

    Reply

  • Changing Titles: Fatblogging to Dietblogging | Julie Anne Bonner — May 7th, 2007, 8:59 pm

    [...] I was supposed to seemed impossible. So what did I do? I just didn’t eat. Smart one huh? (Tim Ferris would be shaking his head at me right now.) My husband was furious! (It feels so good to be [...]

  • piper — May 8th, 2007, 7:04 am

    To follow on from the lack of fruit being mentioned ,it is a perfect food for energy and breakfast meals. I would also mention the more raw veg you eat is better for you and I find easier to prepare

    Reply

  • Trish Oleary — May 8th, 2007, 12:50 pm

    This diet sounds great and totally doable. I am starting on Monday.

    Thanks Tim!! Also I bought your book and it is supposed to be delivered here any day now. I can’t wait to read it!

    Trish Oleary

    Reply

  • Kristin — May 8th, 2007, 1:44 pm

    Tim-

    I need to lose 20 lbs. in 5 weeks. I am on a low-carb diet and am taking Mega-t dietary supplements. Any exercise recommedations? I’m going on vacation last minute and need to look good in my swimsuit.

    Reply

  • Jessica — May 8th, 2007, 4:25 pm

    What about liquor? Technically, there are absolutely no carbs in any liquor. Shouldn’t I be able to drink as much as I want??

    Reply

  • Simple Things — May 8th, 2007, 4:25 pm

    [...] Tim Ferris, the Four-Hour Workweek guy (which is a great book, by the way), has some Fuego-caliber rules for [...]

  • FriendsWithManagersâ„¢ » Blog Archive » LNK: A Diet I Could Get Into — May 8th, 2007, 10:35 pm

    [...] type diets before, but ruthless discipline of it usually kills me. Something like this diet could be a nice jump-start to a workout regime. Maybe I’ll try it out next [...]

  • Cody — May 9th, 2007, 7:34 am

    Jim (PFT/SCT), I’m very interested in that book. I’m going to see if I can find it locally tonight.

    The most important thing isn’t a fanatical following of any given diet. The most important thing is the truth, something we should all pursue. I’m personally interested in reading or hearing about anything that has sound scientific basis and has a proven track record.

    I know from my personal experience that fat in the diet isn’t my problem. My most successful weight loss has been with restricting carbs, but that is because I am (or was at least) borderline type II diabetic. That said, anyone who thinks that they can maintain Atkins induction level carb intake (20 grams per day or less) long term is completely nuts. :)

    The underlying message of Dr. Atkins is the need to consume whole foods. Not conveniently packaged chemicals marketed as food products. If you get most of your meals from a box that goes from refrigerator or freezer straight to a microwave or from a drive-thru window, you are not going to be healthy.

    To the others who mentioned fruits and veggies, I also believe in eating lots of vegetables and eventually working some fruits back into the diet (berries especially).

    You’ll also notice that Tim’s plan really focuses on high quality vegetable intake.

    Reply

  • Jim (PFT/SCT) — May 9th, 2007, 7:44 am

    Liquor? You can’t be serious.

    Sure, you can rationalize that booze is either low- or no-carb, but what about the calories?

    A quick Google search on ‘alcohol’ and ‘calories’ brings up a rather informative page. Here are a few choice quotes from it:

    [start quote]
    Simply put, alcohol reduces the amount of fat the body burns for energy. This occurs for the following reason:

    1. A small portion of the alcohol consumed is converted into fat.
    2. The liver then converts the rest (ie: majority) of the alcohol into acetate.
    3. The acetate is then released into the bloodstream, and replaces fat as a source of fuel.

    Coupled with the high caloric value of alcohol, the resulting effect is that body is forced to store an excessive amount of unburned fat calories, often in the form of a ‘beer belly”.
    [end quote]

    Also check this choice paragraph:

    [start quote]
    Despite the small quantity of liquid, a single shot of liquor (1.5 oz) can contain anywhere from 115-200 calories. In comparison, a 4.0 oz glass of wine contains anywhere from 62-160, with 160 being on the high end of the spectrum. Mixed drinks are where the calories really add up, ranging from approximately 280 calories for a gin and tonic to over 800 calories for some of the frozen, creamy drinks.
    [end quote]

    Link here:

    http://www.rochester.edu/uhs/healthtopics/Alcohol/caloricvalues.html

    But, feel free to chat up any certified dietician on the nutritional value of booze. Try to convince them that (wine-specific components aside) your consumption of alcohol is actually contributing to your weight loss.

    I think at best you’d be able to put booze on your short list for your cheat day. That’s it.

    Reply

  • Ryan — May 9th, 2007, 6:43 pm

    I started this program on monday apr 30

    pretty much sticking to chicken, salsa, black beans, and pinto beans. Water is the only liquid i drink and i probably manage to get down 7-10 20oz bottles a day.
    I’ve been walking 30 mins, doing free weights (15 reps 3 sets) and ab workouts every other day because i hate them so much.

    saturday i cheat by eating healthy but i allow breads and pastas (which i love so much after a week of none) and i have a few beers with the boys.

    i’m Male 5’11″

    started at 220 (in boxers)

    i now weigh in at 216. (with jeans, sandals and a shirt on to boot!)

    If i can maintain a constant weight loss rate of 8-12 pounds a month i would be astonished.

    I’ll check back in a week from now.

    later

    Reply

  • geoff — May 10th, 2007, 7:17 am

    hi, i “stumbled” upon this site and i must say, it’s pretty intriguing.. however my favorite food in the world is cereal and i love my carbs, im also an energy drink fanatic. but ultimately i’m going to give this diet a try and eat about 2 chicken breast filets per day, along with various types of veggies. the chicken i will be eating has 19g protein, 9 grams of fat- but only about 0.5 grams is saturated, 0g trans and the rest is made up of mono/poly-unsaturated fats. i’ll keep posting

    Reply

  • Dean — May 10th, 2007, 10:13 am

    Tim, love the blog. Do you think you could do a post on your sleeping habit, this is something I would really want to know. Keep up the awesome content.

    Reply

  • Jen — May 10th, 2007, 12:27 pm

    One week out, on my cheat day, have lost 5 pounds as of this morning. The only time I have felt noticeably spent was after my 2 hour trapeze conditioning class. The body weight exercises, however, were much easier.

    For other women here — perhaps a better method of measurement of sucess is not weigth but actual measurement. When I began working hard with body weight training, I gained 15 pounds in 12 months(I am tall and thin, normally). I now look quite bulky and I believe this due to gaining both muscle (specifically arm, shoulder, chest, glutes) and fat (wasit, thighs). I think this diet is significantly cutting the fat, and with training, slimming specific areas.
    So far, so good. Thanks much, Tim!

    Reply

  • Honesty — May 11th, 2007, 11:18 am

    To lose 20 pounds of fat in 30 days you would have to be extremely overweight and go on a fast. 20 pounds is doable, just admit that most of it you will lose in the first week and half, and that is from water.

    A pound of fat contains 3,500 calories. So burning 20lbs of fat requires burning 70,000 calories of energy… that means in 30 days you’d have to be in a caloric deficient of 2,333 calories per day. For the vast majority of the population that means eating practically nothing. That is overly simplified but hopefully you get the gist.

    Reply

  • Mark — May 11th, 2007, 4:58 pm

    [...] most dreaded method of all: diet. Since the next four weeks will be miserable anyway – consumed with schoolwork and deficient in any form of entertainment or amusement [...]

    Reply

  • pamela — May 12th, 2007, 12:51 pm

    Hey i like this diet plan, i have been struggling to loose
    30 pounds since i was in high school 5 years ago. I told my fiance i won’t get married until i can fit into the wedding dress that i really want to wear. I guess i have been stuggling for so long because my mental is not in the right place. I sike myself out everyday when all i really want is to just loose the weight…it’s become an obsession in my mind but all i do is nothing to help myself, any words of advice for some internal motivation, and to be able to stay consistant? The most disappointing part is that i’ve been an athlete since i was 8, playing 3 sports a year all the up to senior year of high school, i feel like i put all that hard work in for nothing. and i’m scared to loose the muscle that i do have, but don’t want to build anymore until i can loose my fat, any advice…

    Reply

  • Adrian — May 12th, 2007, 7:56 pm

    im going to keep going, but i must admit im a bit discouraged. ive been following the diet methodically, but i dont see much of a change. a little less fat in my legs, but my gut, where i want to see the most change — there hasnt been much.

    i weigh 160 lbs. which is quite slim for a 6’0 male and all i want to do is lose enough fat from my stomach to get some abs. i will definitely follow this one through bc im not a quitter, but it is very difficult to drive away the temptation of a cinnamon raisin bagel for an egg white omelet.lol.

    lets see how it goes from here on out.

    Reply

  • Steve — May 13th, 2007, 6:39 pm

    You mentioned a bean native to south america. I beleive it was coena or something like this. I trying to locate it. Please verify the spelling. \\ Thanks

    Reply

  • » 5 World-Class Vices for Less Than $5 — May 13th, 2007, 9:19 pm

    [...] of you already know that Saturday is a “free” day on my diet, and I take this freedom to eat (and drink) whatever I want seriously. I’m not one for the [...]

  • yoodle — May 14th, 2007, 10:26 am

    How do you make sure you get enough grams of fiber on a daily basis?

    Reply

  • Cody — May 14th, 2007, 7:10 pm

    Yoodle, try searching google on the fiber content of beans. You don’t have to take my word for it if you don’t want to, but beans are one of the foods highest in fiber. They’re not called the “magical fruit” for nothing…

    The vegetables in this diet? Also high in fiber.

    The USRDA is around 25 grams.

    If the above foods aren’t enough (if you eat beans and veggies 2 to 3 times a day, I don’t see how your diet could be lacking in fiber), there are also products like Metamucil, or my favorite, fiber-sure.

    Reply

  • lotophage — May 15th, 2007, 10:54 am

    Supplements Qs:

    1) Isn’t niacin potentially dangerous in the doses you took? I thought the recommended daily allowance was about 18mg

    2) Do you take the supplements for their individual effects or interactive effects? What would be the effect of removing policosanol from your daily vitamin schedule for example?

    Reply

  • Mark — May 15th, 2007, 10:56 am

    [...] I’ve lost 4.5lbs – mostly fat – and reduced my body fat by 1 percentage point. My only concern was losing lean body mass [...]

    Reply

  • Jim Hallett — May 15th, 2007, 5:23 pm

    Liked the ideas presented for weight loss and have found many of these things to work – lots of beans and veggies, eliminating the “white” foods, sugar, etc. I think keeping a diet simple makes it easier to stick with, but one can still maintain variety within the week, so as not to get bored. After a few weeks, it becomes easier to make the healthy choices. One statement in the diet that I would strongly oppose is “unlimited consumption of diet soda is OK”. Diet soda is one of the worst beverages for humans, as the aspartame is a chemical the body cannot properly handle. Diet sodas may not put on any pounds, but they are a totally damaging beverage in all other aspects. Water, tea (especially green tea), and red wine are the beverages to stick with primarily, and coffee is fine in limited amounts (and without cream and sugar).

    Reply

    • AW — December 20th, 2010, 1:09 am

      Yes – when I saw what Tim said about diet sodas, I put the brakes on (not that the diet appealed to me anyway, but when I saw “drink all the diet soda you want” I realized that was bad advice). Diet soda is definitely NOT something you want to drink in large quantities. Personally, I never touch the stuff.

      Reply

  • Dave — May 16th, 2007, 11:14 am

    Hi Tim,

    I was curious about what type of workout regimen would you suggest for fat loss to go along with the diet. I am starting today and i have plenty of weight to lose. Dave

    Reply

  • My down days may be numbered - Open Source Diet — May 16th, 2007, 9:53 pm

    [...] have a scheduled ride that conflicts.  At that point, I’ll switch to a combination of Tim Ferriss’s plan and The Lose Weight Diet, which I’ll explain in detail when I get [...]

  • cathy — May 17th, 2007, 4:10 am

    hi stephen i an a 27 yrs old weight 20 stone have 3 dayghters an i despretly want to lose weight can u plz help me thanx cathy

    Reply

  • Adventures In Money Making — May 17th, 2007, 5:33 pm

    I went on a low carb diet once. I spent 3 and a half weeks eating eggs, fried fish, mangoes and coffee with skim powdered milk. I lost about 50 pounds in that time.

    I was probably eating about 1200 calories a day. didn’t feel tired, and I aced all my exams too!

    Reply

  • Dom — May 25th, 2007, 3:03 pm

    Hey everyone,
    I finished Tim’s book this past week and, since last Sunday, have been following the meal program. I have to say I feel great. I haven’t felt hungry at all and it isn’t as hard to keep up with as I thought. I started the week at about 210 and have dropped a good 6 or 7 pounds. I also did my first “1 set to exhaustion” workout this past Tuesday. I already had a decent build and had been working out about 3 days a week. The single sets to exhaustion, working slowly on each rep, kicked my butt, I plan on going for a second workout this evening as all soreness has dissapated.

    I also started on the supplements mentioned yesterday, just the ChromeMate and the Niacin. I did some of my own research and found that the majority of studies have concluded that the policosanol did not have any major effects as previously thought.

    Has anyone else had any results of note yet?

    Thanks,
    Dom

    Reply

  • Joel — May 26th, 2007, 2:05 pm

    I haven’t read Tim’s book, but it seems like the diet plan is well thought out. I’ll be sure to pick it up as soon as I can. This plan sounds a LOT like Harley Pasternak’s “5-Factor Fitness.” Pasternak’s focuses on all the same key points, low GI intake, protein rich foods, spiking caloric intake once a week, etc. Not to mention blood-sugar level balancing to curb the hunger. At any rate, excellent site, and I hope to get this book soon!

    Reply

  • 555 95472 — May 27th, 2007, 9:34 am

    I am currently on day 20 of the “lose 20lbs” regimen. I have lost 8 pounds so far and have dropped a pants size, am never hungry, and have tremendous energy.

    Here are my vital statistics and the variations I’ve made to the diet:
    43yo man, 5’8″, started at 174 lbs., exercise regularly.
    I’m an ovo-lacto vegeterian, so in addition to eggs I use Yves veggie hot dogs and Instone high protein pudding.
    I eat 4 meals a day, plus 1 high protein pudding snack.
    I exercise 6 days a week.
    I won’t lose 20 pounds in 30 days but I’m very happy with the results!

    Reply

  • 30 Days of the Slow Carb Diet: Results and Conclusions — June 2nd, 2007, 12:00 pm

    [...] been a full 30 days following the slow carb diet. After the first couple weeks it became routine and I barely noticed it. If anyone wants to [...]

  • Eclectic Ethnic | Basic Hummus — June 3rd, 2007, 4:39 pm

    [...] that I’ve pretty much switched to a “slow-carb” diet based on the one Tim Ferriss uses, I wanted something to give raw vegetables some flavor. I’ve enjoyed hummus for years, [...]

  • CheezyOranges — June 4th, 2007, 8:06 am

    Change of Plans…

    I’ve been doing the diet outlined here for 2 weeks. I’ve seen absolutely no change in my weight at all. Actually, I’ve gained 3 pounds, which is really discouraging. I’m running at the gym every other day, I’m walking or b…

  • Elanor — June 4th, 2007, 8:08 am

    I’ve been doing this diet for 2 weeks, and have seen absolutely NO improvement. I’ve actually gained 3 pounds. Am I doing something wrong? I’m going to the gym anyway – running at least 3 times a week. So why do I see no success?
    I’m 183, trying to get to 140.

    Reply

  • Mark Adkins — June 4th, 2007, 5:18 pm

    Great entry.

    Just a question though: what about other legumes? I have tried and tried to enjoy all kinds of beans and lentils, but never have. What about peanuts, et. al?

    Reply

  • 555 95472 — June 6th, 2007, 2:18 pm

    This is a follow-up to my May 27th comment:

    I’ve now completed the 30-day diet. With the modifications I described above, I stuck to the diet 100%. Final results:

    I lost 10 lbs. But I was also working out 6 days a week, and I can see the muscle I gained during the same time period. So that means that I lost considerably more than 10 lbs. of fat.

    Suits and pants I couldn’t fit into a month ago now are loose.

    With avoiding sugar 6 days a week and eating only “slow carbs,” this diet has been incredibly easy to stick to. I am literally never hungry, have no low-blood-sugar energy drops, and have no cravings.

    Thanks, Tim!

    Reply

  • Brandon — June 7th, 2007, 12:28 pm

    Is a glass of V8 a suitable substitute of vegetables are not available?

    Reply

  • Corinne — June 7th, 2007, 2:05 pm

    God I hate eating so many beans.
    any ideas for recipes with lentils? I must be doing something wrong because they always turn out really bad…

    Reply

  • Kent — June 7th, 2007, 6:05 pm

    I started this diet 3 weeks ago and I agree with others it works great. I have lost 15 pounds, absolutely no exercise for 30 days (I just wanted to see if Tim’s headline was true, ill start my training up after 30 days) I am never tired and never have cravings. Its slow and steady, but thats what wins the race right? Eliminating perservatives and additives that are in most fast food and processed food has also done wonders for my energy, skin, and stress levels.

    Reply

  • Corey — June 8th, 2007, 10:14 am

    I started this diet 2 weeks ago. So far I’ve lost ten pounds however I’m not sure how much muscle I’ve put on. I will say I hit a home run last night and I haven’t done that since early last year. So I know I’m adding strength. I’m working out 5-6 days a week in addition to my sport activities.

    Reply

  • MIke — June 9th, 2007, 10:49 am

    Try to get a 30 minute cardio in, first thing in the morning. Don’t eat anything! Get up and get going!

    Reply

  • Slow Carb Diet: Week 1 Update — June 9th, 2007, 2:56 pm

    [...] been one week since I started the slow carb diet and Tim Ferriss’ workout routine. I’ve never put myself on a restricted diet so I [...]

  • 2 Weeks on the Slow Carb Diet and Going Strong — June 9th, 2007, 2:58 pm

    [...] This is the second update of my experiment with the slow carb diet. If you’re new here I suggest reading the introduction and first update so this post makes [...]

  • Kent — June 9th, 2007, 9:44 pm

    Has anybody else had trouble on their “Saturday Gone Wild” day? I get really sick at my stomach eating breads, sugar, etc. I assume because I dont eat them all week.

    Reply

  • Shannon — June 12th, 2007, 3:48 pm

    I’m on day one of this diet, following it exactly, and I have to say that this is the easiest day one of a diet I’ve ever been through. I’ve been eating black beans as my legume choice all day and I can’t even finish them all for every meal! I have a good amount of energy, only a slight dip, but still great for a first day. I’m sure after a few days I’ll feel normal again. I’m 5’4 very small frame and 138 pounds and I’m hoping to be around 120 in 30 days. I’m including cardio and strengh training. I’ll keep you posted!

    Reply

  • Ferbent « Stop Yawning — June 14th, 2007, 4:56 am

    [...] Read up on the latest comings and goings of Ferbent over at his blog. The main focus will be on his weight loss and fitness regime which is based on the GI diet and the Colorado Experiment. Tim Ferriss claims he [...]

  • Raison d’etre - 4-Week Challenge! « a brokengod — June 16th, 2007, 4:43 am

    [...] to manage and track my own attempts at the 4-week challenge and in this I take my inspiration from Tim Ferriss’ blog post entitled How to Lose 20 lbs. of Fat in 30 Days… Without Doing Any [...]

  • brokengod — June 16th, 2007, 6:21 am

    Great site Tim. So much so, that like others before me I am attempting to emulate your success with a 4-week challenge. Using the ideas in your post, I will be monitoring and uploading my progress (http://brokengod.wordpress.com/) frequently and invite others to view my greatly anticipated success. I encourage others to also read Tim’s other blog posts and be similarly inspired in all aspects of life. Good luck with the book and keep the ideas coming.

    Reply

  • Slim People in Progress — June 16th, 2007, 9:48 am

    Lose 20 pounds in 30 days?…

    I was checking out the blog of an author whose work I’m following, Tim Ferris, author of The 4-Hour Workweek, and came across a series of posts about how he lost 25 pounds of fat in 6 weeks. Reading through…

  • Dave — June 16th, 2007, 10:28 am

    I started this diet 32 days ago. On Day 1 and Day 30 I was at my doctor, so I got weighed both days. I lost 13 lbs. of fat with no exercise! I would have lost more, but I wasn’t sleeping well and I had a couple of weekends where I drank. Without the mixers in the alcohol and better sleep, I’m certain I would have lost more because I am sticking to this religiously. Tim, your writing is an inspiration. Thanks!

    Dave

    Reply

  • Jeremy — June 20th, 2007, 9:23 pm

    Does anyone have any suggestions for snacks on this diet? It’s hard to find vegetables, beans, or meat for snack items during work breaks, aside from bringing them myself in the morning.

    Reply

  • Brandon — June 22nd, 2007, 4:31 pm

    I think peanuts may be a good snack since they are a form of legume. See http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Peanut

    I eat peanuts for snacks and I’m on this diet.

    Reply

  • CJ — June 26th, 2007, 2:48 pm

    What about using Asian seasonings for my beef, pork or poultry dishes. They have a lot of sodium. Does that matter?

    Reply

  • Glenn Dixon — June 26th, 2007, 3:12 pm

    two weeks, 5 pounds – finally broke through a plateau that has held me at around 230 for a few years now.

    Thanks, Tim!

    Reply

  • Erik P. — June 26th, 2007, 11:20 pm

    Hey All,

    I have a couple of questions, and maybe somebody has some sage advice.

    I started the one-set-to-failure today and the diet yesterday. I am a vegan, so I am going hard on the brown rice protein and the soy, different kinds of beans and whatever else I can find without killing anything.

    I am a martial artist, have been training for over 30 years, and had started a weightlifting routine a couple of years ago, along with bag work, step intervals and just major-bloody-insane workouts, with mixed results. Main issue, of course overtraining. The fact is, for me martial arts is a life choice rather than a just workout, and although I would make it to the gym 2x/week, I was still training at the dojo 3-4x/week and have been too exhausted to do it all with the kind of intensity necessary for major muscle growth.

    Here are my issues, and I wonder if anybody has any intelligent thoughts about them:

    (1) 5/5 or 3/3 seconds is going to seriously mess with my speed. In my prior weight training, I was exploding the weight up and letting it down slowly. Since April 2004, my karate speed has increased significantly because of it. Will I find similar muscle gains doing 1-set-failure-reps and this kind of explosive movement? Or am I pretty much not going to reap the benefits without slow movements?

    (2) Am I completely going to miss the boat by training karate 3x/week as well? The fact is, I have to go to the dojo, and when I’m there I have to train hard. So yes, going to the gym twice/week and giving myself adequate muscle recovery time is great…but I don’t really have the luxury of being one of the senior students and not showing up for a month in order to bulk up.

    Sincerely,
    Erik

    Reply

  • Karólína — June 27th, 2007, 5:07 am

    Dear Tim.

    I’m gonna start your diet plan cause like you, I have those scandinavian genes…. eveything is on my abdomen area and i want to lose 10-20 pounds plus tone by abdomen and toochy. I was wondering though if it is okay on your diet to eat between meals cause I’m a big mucher?… veggies and stuff like that. Anyway congrats on your results…. buh bye :)

    Reply

  • deltron — June 28th, 2007, 12:22 pm

    Above you’ll find a post of mine where I promised to reveal the results of Tim’s Diet. I did indeed lose about 10lbs after about 2 weeks on the diet. I was hungry all the time, craved carbohydrates and generally felt miserable. I lost a significant amount of muscle, and strength. My squat and bench press decreased by about 15%. My fat percentage only dropped about 1.5%, and I still have about the same waist size. Worst of all, my endurance during training suffered greatly, I would get tired in about half the time it normally took, and my recovery also was significantly delayed.

    After thinking this diet over and analyzing my results I have concluded that most of the weight I lost was water, this could explain the loss in performance and recovery, the quick weight loss and the quick regain of the weight I put back on in the weeks that followed the diet. I would not recommend this diet to anyone.

    Currently I am having great success with the “Abs Diet” by David Zinczenko. The abs diet is very balanced, keeps me full and promotes a very healthy lifestyle. My performance in all regards has significantly increased, I am back benching and squating my previous weight, and training hard without feeling fatigued. All while losing fat (as noted from several body fat measurements)and gaining strenght and stamina. In comparison to Tim’s diet, I have lost 8lbs in two weeks, and 5% body fat. If you are looking for a good, balanced, researched diet I would not recommend Tim’s, but instead would point you in the direction of the Abs diet.

    Good luck.

    Del

    Reply

    • matt — September 21st, 2011, 1:59 pm

      Del, I have a really hard believing you lost 8lbs and 5% body fat at the same time. You stated earlier that you didnt really do the diet? you were adding things that you werent sipposed to be. To be able to say if something works or will work, you must follow the protocols.

      I am a trainer and Wellness director , and I am experimenting with this diet for 30 days with a goal of -30 lbs from a starting of 211lbs. This is day 3 and I am down 7lbs already, I am following the protocols set by Tim to a tee. As a trainer am I sceptical? of course, but you must try something 100% before knocking it.

      I have done fitness compeptions in the past, and have been on low carb diets before and thus far with the addition of the calorie rich beans I am not feeling hungry. I will post another post mid way through my 30 day experiment.

      keep an open mind and trust the expert, give things time.

      Matt

      Reply

      • Toni — February 11th, 2013, 12:42 pm

        being a trainer, you MUST be aware of the fact that low carb diets, though working short term, don’t have a lasting effect. I’m SURE you’d advise against such a diet!

        Reply

  • Adventures In Money Making — June 28th, 2007, 1:48 pm

    everybody’s body is different. you just need to see what suits you.
    the very low carb diet worked wonderfully for me.

    Reply

  • Mark — July 3rd, 2007, 4:02 am

    Dude…speaking of canned tuna, its kinda bland for my taste but I started adding mayo and hot sauce for taste I know it is ok (its Tapatio my fave). I know Mayo is “Egg whites” but soy bean oil and other crap is in there too so I’m a little bit concerned if its ok to add and/or if you have a particular brand that you recommend thanks!!!

    Reply

  • Rob — July 5th, 2007, 1:45 pm

    Three weeks of fairly consistent adherence to this diet and I’ve lost 10 pounds of fat, which is no small feat considering that I’m a professional fitness trainer and have struggled to get rid of those pesky pounds.

    Reply

  • Daniel — July 6th, 2007, 12:26 pm

    There are so many comments on this blog now; Tim, write another book, or give us a forum!

    I have a few questions for fellow practitioners. I have lost about 8 pounds in 2.5 weeks, which is just great for me.

    #1: Junkfood… do I really need to eat junk food or would “refeeding” with bread, pasta, rice, etc. be enough to prevent metabolic downregulation? I used to crave junk food all the time, but after three weeks of this diet I just don’t feel like it as much. I’ll crave some obscure item all week, and then when cheat day comes, I’ll either eat it and feel unsatisfied, or I’ll just forget what it was I wanted.

    #2: Cheat days… is there any biological reason that setting an arbitrary 24-hour or less window would be *worse* than a proper cheat day? i.e. could I cheat from Friday at 5pm to Saturday at 12pm? This maximizes my social opportunities, like eating at the movie theatre or going to the pub with friends.

    #3: What happens if you take your cheat day on Wednesday on one week, and then Monday on another? Does inconsistent cheating (still only once per seven days) affect insulin and metabolic rate while on this diet?

    Reply

    • Rob — January 7th, 2011, 1:15 pm

      I have this same question as Daniel and I’m having trouble finding an answer.

      “#2: Cheat days… is there any biological reason that setting an arbitrary 24-hour or less window would be *worse* than a proper cheat day? i.e. could I cheat from Friday at 5pm to Saturday at 12pm? This maximizes my social opportunities, like eating at the movie theatre or going to the pub with friends.”

      Does anyone have an answer?

      Reply

  • Addy — July 9th, 2007, 12:30 am

    Hey! I was wondering if any females have had success with this diet who maybe started at a weight of 140 to about 170. Let me know :)

    Reply

    • Theresa — January 9th, 2011, 12:07 pm

      I am a 50 yr old female in decent shape. I wieghed 157.7 to start. I need to lose apprx. 20 to 25 lbs. I started the diet on Jan 6th, 2011, and after three days I have lost 3.7 lbs. I took my measurments also but just did today (when I weighed in and lost the 3.7lbs).

      Glad you asked this question as I was curious also. I haven’t started working out yet but plan to on Monday. (Jan. 10, 2011). I plan to keep it up, we will see!

      Reply

      • Bella — January 25th, 2011, 4:08 pm

        I am a bit older than you with the same weight number. I will be starting on the 26th.
        Please keep me posted on your success.

        Reply

  • pitli — July 9th, 2007, 11:34 am

    Addy, I’m starting this diet today.I did some reading online and can’t seem to find any response from females who are on it. I’m sketical about it working for women as it does for men. I would like to see if any females have tried it and lost FAT. Let me know…

    Reply

  • Marty — July 9th, 2007, 12:14 pm

    I am intrigued by this diet and all the comments and questions made. As one who tries to eat very little meat, is substituting soy-protein acceptable if I would rather not have chicken or beef? I typically eat a lot Boca and Morningstar Farms products.

    Also, I love beans, but am leary of the side effects of all that fiber has on me the next day. Any suggestion?!

    Reply

  • Barbara Saunders — July 9th, 2007, 12:45 pm

    I think “boring” is part of why this diet works. People who eat more variety tend to eat more calories. Makes sense … if the food’s not novel and stimulating, you stop eating when you stop feeling hungry.

    Reply

  • Caleb — July 9th, 2007, 3:08 pm

    What about using this diet for vegetarians? I recently have stopped eating all pork, beef, red meat. I have had chicken a few times but I don’t want to inlcude that in my diet.

    Any suggestions? I have found some really tasty vegan burgers and still eat some dairy for the time being. Thanks

    Reply

  • Erik — July 10th, 2007, 12:43 am

    Hey Marty,

    I’m a vegan and have been doing this diet for two weeks now. Here are my recommendations:

    (1) Go to a Whole Foods or any good natural foods store and get a hold of a jar of brown rice protein. The stuff is great for you, doesn’t have any of the allergenic or estrogen downsides of soy, and is 80% protein with nearly zero carbs. Get *unsweetened* soy milk at the same market, and get a hold of any artificial sweetener that suits you. Put about four tablespoons of the powder in your blender with the soymilk and sweetener, and it will be an awesome protein blast. Ice is good, too if you like cold smoothies.

    Don’t try to just stir it in a glass, because it clumps up and tastes like dirt.

    Also, if you work out, you can use frozen strawberries instead of ice and add a banana within two hours of exercising.

    (2) Learn to cook as best you can, if you haven’t already. I’ve been making vegan chili, sundried tomato hummus, etc. to get more protein load.

    (3) Tofurky dogs are your friend. Eat them daily. They have 25g of protein apiece and are low in carbs. Yves dogs are good, too.

    (4) Go to a Trader Joe’s if you have one around and stock up on cashews, other nuts, and Thai Soy blocks. The latter taste scrumptious with just a dollop of ketchup. If you don’t have a Trader Joe’s, you can get all this a Whole Foods or a natural foods store, but it’s a bit more expensive.

    (5) Boca’s good, Morningstar Farms is good if you eat eggs and milk. Just check the carbs on the latter. Some veggie patties have lots and lots of wheat and brown rice.

    Hope this was helpful!

    I’ll tell ya, my weight has stayed about the same, but I’m lifting more weight at the gym in *every* category, and my wife says my butt looks smaller. I then tell her to stop objectifying me, who does she think she is, I’m a grown man. Then she hits me, and I cry.

    Peace,
    Erik

    Reply

  • Nick — July 10th, 2007, 4:53 am

    Great advice man. I started following your preachings a month and a half ago when I found your blog searching google and i’ve lost 23.5 lbs so far. I graph my progress and according to that the whole “cheat day” thing really helps keep the train rolling. Much appreciated.

    Reply

  • Timothy Ferris Physical Routine « For all bachelors who want to live well with little budget — July 10th, 2007, 3:52 pm

    [...] Eat enormous quantities of protein (much like my current fat-loss diet) with low-glycemic index carbohydrates like quinoa, but drop calories by 50% one day per week to [...]

  • Marty — July 10th, 2007, 11:56 pm

    Erik,

    Many thanks for your thoughtful and detailed reply! OKay, I have a few follow-up questions…

    1. This diet is gonna be a challenge for me, I’m sure…I love my carbs and all my white grains, and prepared foods. Thanks for encouraging me to cook!

    2. How much soy milk should use with the rice protein (bought some tonight–chocolate. yum.)? Mine was a bit chalky tonight, but added a small bit of blueberries and some coconut milk.

    3. I love nuts, legumes, etc. but they don’t love me back. They hate me the next day. It’s horrid. Any suggestions?

    4. I don’t care much for the Veggie Dogs–how do you prepare them? is mustard ok on them? Maybe I need to revisit them….I like the Dr. Praeter’s Veggie Burgers…all natural and good source of veggies, but is 19 carbs too much??

    5. Today was my first official day of the diet; was not too terribly bad. What will all that soy do to my estrogen levels??!

    Glad ro hear your wife likes your butt, even if you feel cheap. LOL. thanks again!

    Marty

    Reply

  • Erik — July 11th, 2007, 1:45 am

    Hey Marty,

    Sure…I’ll give you the answers I can. I’m no expert, that’s for sure, but it seems to be working for me.

    1. Challenges are good. It makes us think about what we eat, and if you learn to cook, the ladies will line up. Really, they’ll have to, because if they mob, you won’t have room to cook.

    2. I use soy milk liberally. Me, I wouldn’t use chocolate, unless it has *no* sugar, which includes “evaporated cane juice”. I love when they say that. Um, Mr. Label, do you mean, “liquid sugar”? I thought so. I use either Silk Unsweetened (*not* “Plain”, which has sugar), which you can find at a Whole Foods, or Trader Joe’s unsweetened soy milk. A good thing about these is that they also have vitamin B-12, which we vegans don’t get in our diet.

    3. Don’t know what to say about this one. Drinking lots of water seems to help me with gas and keeping the friends and loved ones I have. This cool product called “Bean-O” is good too (can get at any good natural foods store), completely natural, and may work with your nut problem (those two words sound just wrong together).

    4. Oboy. Me, I love the veggie dogs. Now, back when I ate bread, I’d take a good ol’ bun, spread Veganaise and ketchup on it, stick a dog on, put sauerkraut on top, and pile veggie chili on top of that. One of the most delicious things on the planet. Forego the bun, and I’ll bet it’s still awesome.

    Another thing you can do is get the Spicy Italian Tofurkey dogs, cut ‘em up, and put ‘em in chili.

    re: carbs, the Atkins diet recommends 21g of carbs a *day*. So me, I wouldn’t eat them Dr. Praeter’s burgers. I try to keep the carbs way down.

    5. Congrats on your first day! May there be many more :-)

    Re: soy estrogen levels, there is plenty of conflicting literature. Try these links:

    http://findarticles.com/p/articles/mi_m0FKA/is_5_66/ai_n5994721
    http://www.drlam.com/opinion/soyandestrogen.cfm
    http://www.annieappleseedproject.org/dietricinsoy.html
    http://www.utne.com/issues/2007_142/features/12607-1.html
    http://www.schsa.org/PublicHealth/pages/healthResources/healthwire/2001/04c.html

    The answer, in my opinion? Which is going to give me larger man-boobs? Soy or McDonald’s? I’ll take my chances with soy.

    *However*, I think it is important to look for “non-GMO” (GMO=genetically modified organisms) soy protein sources, and this can be tough, because soy is the single most genetically messed-with product there is.

    That said, I hope this all helped.

    Peace,
    Erik

    Reply

  • Amy — July 12th, 2007, 3:47 pm

    I’m a female trying to shed the extra baby weight I gained when I was pregnant. I’m also a vegetarian (who relied heavily on bread, pasta, and cheese) and I hate to drink water. For the past week, I’ve doing a hybrid Tim Ferriss/Atkins thing — really just restricting my carbs — and doing vegetable egg or soy meat beans (but not always beans)combination meals and have upped my liquid intake. I’m mostly eating low-GI foods, but I didn’t give up my cup of morning coffee with skim milk and a little sugar. I’ve also cut way back on cheese. I don’t have a scale, so I can’t comment on weight loss, but I feel like I’ve lost a few pounds. Anyway,I’m experiencing some cramping and I *cannot* stop peeing. I’m thinking it is a form of Ketosis, and wondering if it is unhealthy?

    Reply

  • jon — July 13th, 2007, 11:50 am

    after finally realizing that 265 was not a “healthy weight for me(male 6’3″), i began exercising and eating semi-healthy. i reduced my weight to around 220 but have plateaud for the last 2 months, bouncing between 220 and 216. this seems doable, so i started monday. its friday now. went from 221 to 216. seems to be working but i’ll start celebrating when i break past 215 ;-)

    Reply

  • Brittany w. — July 13th, 2007, 1:15 pm

    Thanks for the wonderful tips. i find myself sometimes wondering why all my dieting plans fail whether it be because their boring, not enough energy during the day or simply because they just dont work!!! Maybe this is different and i can actually keep my diet plan without giving up!

    Reply

  • Mark Chambers — July 13th, 2007, 5:35 pm

    Nice article Tim, very interesting indeed.

    I am going to do this for 30 days straight, starting when I next go food shopping [I need to prepare].

    I’m going to be best man for my best friend in about 6 weeks time so this is just what I need to fit into that suit I bought right before I stopped smoking and piled on the pounds. I’m now 14 stones 4 lbs, thats 200 pounds to you guys in the USA (England here). It sounds like people like it and the available choices are tasty and easy – so – I’ll see you in 30 days with before and after weights.

    Mark

    Reply

  • nick williams — July 14th, 2007, 12:43 pm

    Let me tell you guys i am a 17 year old on my way to college and i decided to make my body go to it pinnacle point pretty much the best body that i will ever have. I have always had a buff body but never ripped and i always knew if i lost weight that i would become ripped. So i start the diet on the 12th and this diet is doing amazing things to me i lost 3 pounds already I’m not in lack of energy i play basketball and i still have enough energy to go up and down the court and I’m not even tired today is my first cheat day and it feels great i can tell this diet will work fore me see you guys in 27 more days. when i lose 20 pound. right now I’m on pace to losing 30 pounds this is great.Afterward I’m thinking about using you muscle gain program so i can truly be a great physical specimen. Thanks tim.

    Reply

  • A Pile Of Blog — July 14th, 2007, 4:45 pm

    Uncluttering…

    I’ve been very busy lately, as well as productive. Those two don’t always go together, but this last few weeks has been incredible. I’ll never finish this post if I write it all out, so it’s going to be a list.

    Started up a c…

  • Erik S — July 15th, 2007, 11:45 am

    Does anyone have a successful meal plan that provides a little more spice than Tim’s? I like to concept of simplification to stay on track but I need variety!

    Reply

    • gayanee — February 6th, 2011, 3:05 pm

      erik use curried vege for spice. most curry powders aid your weight loss and extremely healthy for you.
      i know tim says dont use rice but sometimes i use brown rice and make a fried rice using flax seed oil.

      Reply

  • Rebecca — July 15th, 2007, 7:56 pm

    I’m confused… the title says “without exercise,” but there’s a photo of a “post-workout pizza.”

    Reply

  • Heather — July 16th, 2007, 2:33 pm

    Hey, just started out your diet plan, and feeling good. Looking forward to finishing at least the 30 days. Just wanted to say thanks for giving “free” imput on behalf of all of us (even those that are negative). And to say, that if those are looking forward to dieting, but not to exercise, it almost doesn’t go hand in hand. If you loose the weight, but don’t exercise, your body will not be “toned” and you won’t achieve that “look” you want. However, it is possible to loose weight without exercise, it just won’t give you that “look” you want. BUT agian, thanks!

    Reply

  • jon — July 16th, 2007, 4:09 pm

    i made it through the weekend and had a great day friday, eating whatever i desired…its monday and i finally made it to 215…6 pounds gone since i started the diet. (one week). call me a believer :-)

    Reply

  • karrie — July 17th, 2007, 4:34 pm

    I’ll give it a try–FSM knows I need to reduce. :)

    It sounds a bit like the Body For Life WOE with a dash of South Beach, actually.

    Reply

  • mimo — July 18th, 2007, 12:56 pm

    wow i dont think i can do that besides 4 a dude its easier to lose weight.I THINK ITS IMPOSSIBLE 4 A LADIE 2 DO THAT!

    Reply

  • beavis — July 18th, 2007, 4:34 pm

    Well I started a modified version of this diet on july 6. I hate beans of all kinds so I just eat more veggies and lean meat instead. Just about every morning I make egg whites and turkey bacon and its good and fills me up with very low calories and fat and no carbs. Lunch I usually have pieces of lunch meat and carrots and celery to munch on. Dinner varies a lot but I try to keep it low cal and low fat. I must admit I cheat more often than I should, usually when I go out to eat with friends or drink a few times a week.

    I exercise a little every couple of days (stationary bike and some arm weights) and 12 days into this diet with all the cheating I’ve done I have gone from 207lbs to 198. I know I’m not losing muscle mass because every time I work out I add distance to the bike part and reps to the arm part. I also drink over a gallon of water every day, it helps keep your metabolism up and keeps you full, so I also know I’m not losing water weight.

    So far this has been a good diet and I like how I can get away with cheating and i still lose weight. I’ll check back when my 30 days are up and let you know how much weight I lost. I’m currently working on lowering how often I cheat, but its difficult when I am out with friends.

    Reply

  • Amanda H. — July 18th, 2007, 4:47 pm

    Can you eat any sort of cereal: such as bran flakes or shredded wheat with 1% milk?

    Reply

  • Kieran — July 19th, 2007, 3:21 am

    for more variety, cook mixed veg with added curry paste and blend to make a curry, with your choice of meat. i’ve also found a relatively low-fat brand of coconut milk, which i sometimes add to the curry to give it a lighter texture.

    feedback : i lost 12 pounds in 6 days the first time i tried this, then a further 12 pounds in 12 days about a month later.

    word of warning: a day or two of regular carb eating will see 3-4 pounds re-emerge but it can be easily lost again by returning to the diet.

    the follow up to the Protein Power book covers ‘maintenance’ levels of carbs, so i guess this is better as a permanent eating plan than as a diet.

    Tim mentions in the original post that he eats like this the whole time. Not a bad trade off, all things considered.

    Reply

  • Linda — July 19th, 2007, 9:49 pm

    Sweet site and great advise from a gentle and educated perspective.

    Reply

  • Shelly — July 20th, 2007, 8:59 am

    How about salad dressing? If I eat salads, can I use salad dressing? Is fruit OK?

    Reply

    • aarika — June 8th, 2011, 4:50 pm

      Not to be rude, but have you read any of the comments above??? No fruit, except for Saturday cheat day. No salad dressing, too high in sugar…use olive oil and lemon with a little bit of salt and pepper….if you must have fruit, make sure it’s post-workout (workout at least 20 minutes of intense cardio/interval training)…You CAN eat carbs post workout because your body if is in “fat-burning” mode and will eat up the carbs since carbs are meant to be used up quickly, or else they turn into fat.
      Hope that helps ( :

      Reply

  • shannon — July 20th, 2007, 12:27 pm

    hey everyone, stop asking stupid questions about substitutions. if you actually read the article, he says the diet is not fun, but it works. it’s a freaking diet! you are supposed to replicate it so you can get the same results! shut up and follow it or don’t! GRRRRRRRRRRRRRRRRRRRRRRR!

    Reply

  • flanlife — July 20th, 2007, 4:30 pm

    Hey all,

    Tried the diet for a week. I am lacto-ovo vegetarian, female, 5’5″ 142, looking to get down to about 125 lbs. I have lost no inches so far(I don’t have a scale). I have been pretty strict on the diet and was surprised not to lose any inches.

    Maybe this works better for men than women? I will post an update in another week.

    Reply

  • Your Health and Fitness Guide » Blog Archive » How to Lose 20 lbs. of Fat in 30 Days with No Exercise — July 22nd, 2007, 9:46 am

    [...] that sound impossible to you? 20 lbs. of fat in 30 days with NO exercise? (Read all about the diet here.) Well, I tried it a couple of months ago and was blogging about it on my personal blog Julie Anne [...]

  • Addy — July 22nd, 2007, 1:13 pm

    I disagree with MOST OF THE COMMENTS THAT HAVE BEEN WRITTEN ON HERE!!!

    I am 5’4″ female who started this diet with a weight of 148lbs. It has been 2 weeks, and I am 140 lbs. I have had two crazy days where I ate McDonalds for breakfast and dinner, and ate a whole pizza for lunch with icecream for dessert. But right after, I get right back on target. I think that those who complain of losing no inches have probably not been as dedicated to the diet. Stop cheating, bc. it does not help. You have to first have discipline to lose the weight bc. a bite here and there really does add up. Save all your urges until your one fat day and you will be fine. Oh, btw, my goal is 128lbs. and Im almost there :)!!

    Reply

  • Addy — July 22nd, 2007, 1:16 pm

    One more thing…did I mention I was a female? LAdies, stop using your gender as a reason for you NOT losing weight. We can do it just as easily as men. I should know. I have alot of estrogen, shown through my DD breast, thick thighs and thick hips, but I am still losing just as much weight as men, maybe more. Stop using this as an excuse, and maybe you may stay on a diet and actually lose the weight.

    Reply

  • arun — July 23rd, 2007, 1:32 pm

    What if we are veggies? What can replace beef and pork?

    Reply

  • Erik — July 23rd, 2007, 6:02 pm

    Dear Arun,

    I answered this above…I’m a vegan.

    Thanks,
    Erik

    Reply

  • Arlen — July 24th, 2007, 12:46 am

    Does this diet work fine even with hardboiled eggs and yogurt? Or is the dairy too much?

    Reply

  • quaid — July 24th, 2007, 1:57 am

    ok – i am seriously going to start this diet and keep track of it via http://31andfat.wordpress.com/

    Reply

  • bryan — July 24th, 2007, 3:13 pm

    One of the best things about this kind of eating is that it works especially well for maintainence. Two to four days without anything white, without the pizza crust as well, will not only make you feel and look lighter, it’ll inspire you to take better control of your eating.

    A great breakfast choice: low or non fat vanilla yogurt/a big fat chopped up apple/a half a cup of a higher protein granola like Bear Naked…it feels light, has a good protein to carb to fat ratio, and tastes damn great. Of course you can subsitute whatever yogurt you like, and mix up the fruits.

    Tim: Just finished reading your book this morning. Thank you. I’m inspired.

    One thing I keep noticing not only with myself but with the world around me: Minds are so rigid. One of the most importan first steps to living a more alive existence is to realize that your mind has simply been thinking too small.

    Reply

  • Blog » — July 24th, 2007, 6:00 pm

    [...] How to Lose 20 lbs. of Fat in 30 Days? Without Doing Any Exercise [...]

  • CatherineL — July 24th, 2007, 11:10 pm

    I’m not surprised you lost so much weight. There wasn’t a great deal of food on your list. If it wasn’t for your Saturday binges, you’d probably have passed out.

    Reply

  • cameron — July 25th, 2007, 4:51 am

    Dear Tim,

    First of all, congratulations. It seems to me you’ve got it sorted. You are inspiring. I am a vegetarian, but trying your suggestion. My question. Is it possible to add boiled potatoes? Second question. Which spices are allowed to add? Are there spices not allowed? Final question. Is it allowed to add nuts? If so, which ones would you recommend?

    Good luck!

    Reply

  • Lancelot — July 27th, 2007, 4:13 pm

    hey ,
    i saw a diet similar to this one in one of my sisters magazines so i decided to do it, and i lost 20 in a month it works ridiculously well if you stick to it the weight just melts off of you

    Reply

  • Christine — July 27th, 2007, 6:03 pm

    I have recently discovered I have Restless Leg Sydrome. I do NOT want to take the prescription medications available for this, but desperately need to find a way to get some sleep. I have added magnesium supplements to my diet and have an appointment to check my iron levels, as these deficiencies can cause the condition. I have also had to cut back on vigorous exercise because it makes the RLS worse, which isn’t helping my energy levels or weight loss goals.

    To my question…I have been wondering if diet also contributes to RLS. Do you know if this type of eating would help relieve the condition?

    Reply

  • Jeanne — July 28th, 2007, 9:55 am

    What about cottage cheese? and or cheese? Are either of these allowed? I love mixed veggies but I like grated cheese on top. no fruit? TIA, Jeanne

    Reply

  • Marc — July 28th, 2007, 10:45 am

    Hi Group,

    Just browsing the selection of Blogs after reading the 4-hour workweek, and I came upon this discussion. I have a couple of questions that I’m hoping someone will be able to answer.

    1. The ‘binge 1 day/week’ concept is said to safeguard against the Thyroid down regulating your metabolism. My challenge is that my thyroid function was permanently stopped w/ Radiation therapy due to Graves Disease, and I now have to take a daily pill to control my metabolism. (This is also partially the reason for my weight gain). Does the ‘binge 1 day/week’ step make sense for me, or will it have negative effects, since my metabolism is not naturally controlled?

    2. I really really dislike legumes. I have never been able to eat any of the beans mentioned in Rule #2, are there any other substitutes that would accomplish the same results? (I do like green & yellow beans, but I don’t’ think they are Legumes).

    Thanks in advance,
    Marc

    Reply

  • christian — July 30th, 2007, 6:44 am

    the whole beans and legumes confuse me… they contain 75% carbs and add roughly the same amount of calories that other carbs provide. why would this differ from “white carbs like brown rice or potatoes?

    Reply

  • Stephane — July 30th, 2007, 7:51 pm

    Christian,

    Beans and Legumes are slow digesting carbs (low GI). Your Body does not need to produce as much insulin to digest these than “White Carbs”. The digested carbs your body does not burn is then stored as fat. Slow digesting carbs are more likely to get burned as they are digested during your day to day. “White Carbs” are good for post workouts since your body needs a high level of energy. “The Glucose Revolution” book explains how the body uses Low and High GI foods.

    Stephane

    Reply

  • christian — July 30th, 2007, 8:08 pm

    also i forgot to mention i realize this diet is using the GI of carbs (could explain why there is no potatoes but would not explain no barely or oatmeal)…but i notice carrots which have one of the highest GI for a vegetable, so what kind of food plan is this a derivative of??

    Reply

  • Anonymous — July 30th, 2007, 10:35 pm

    How to Lose 20 lbs. of Fat in 30 Days… Without Doing Any Exercise…

    Interesting, while male-centric diet concept by the dude who wrote “The Four Hour Workweek,” which is a concept I’m totally down with….

  • stephen — July 31st, 2007, 10:01 am

    Christine Says:
    July 27th, 2007 at 6:03 pm

    I have recently discovered I have Restless Leg Sydrome.

    Have you been tested to see if you have Sleep Apnea? I recently found out that I have it & RLS. Now I use a CPAP machine during sleep and no medication. I’m no longer kicking around and wake up feeling rested.

    Reply

  • Internet Redux — 100 Great Tips to Improve Your Life — July 31st, 2007, 1:07 pm

    [...] Lose Weight Without Exercise. How to lose 20 lbs. of fat in 30 days with a sensible diet. [...]

  • Sarah — August 1st, 2007, 12:36 am

    what would you suggest for vegetarians in place of the meat?

    Reply

  • Eric Gonzalez — August 1st, 2007, 3:53 am

    Tim, if you’re having trouble mixing up breakfast, try using steel cut oats, which have about the same nutritional profile as beans.

    Good post BTW, thanks!

    Reply

  • Jeff McNeill » Blog Archive » links for 2007-08-01 — August 1st, 2007, 8:19 am

    [...] » How to Lose 20 lbs. of Fat in 30 Days… Without Doing Any Exercise (tags: food) [...]

  • SK — August 1st, 2007, 2:35 pm

    I just started the diet and I have to say it is going quite well. For me though I have to spice it up a bit with a favorite of mine that has been a hit since i discovered it and luckily fits right in with the diet.

    Hopefully it helps someone else too.

    SK’s Spicy Black Bean Dip

    Mix:
    1 tbs. Olive Oil
    1 tsp. Red Wine Vinegar
    1/4 cup fresh squeezed lime juice
    2 tbs. minced chipotle pepper (it is canned, and can be done to taste of course, it’s hot)
    1/4 cup chopped cilantro

    Then add:
    2 16oz. cans of black beans (rinsed)
    1 large green bell pepper
    1 large tomato
    1/2 red onion
    1 avacado

    I like to chop up the veggies pretty small but of course it is up to you.

    I hope you enjoy!

    Reply

  • Josh — August 1st, 2007, 4:38 pm

    Tim,

    This is slightly off topic, but also very pertinent. I travel extensively, as I’m sure you now do, and have great difficulty with consistency of any good food. So often at airports, or hotels, or wherever, you simply don’t have much choice. If 75% of meals are restaurant meals, how can you keep a reasonable diet and still roam the world?

    Thanks!

    Reply

  • Blog » Blog Archive » — August 1st, 2007, 6:00 pm

    [...] " How to Lose 20 lbs. of Fat in 30 Days… Without Doing Any Exercise [...]

  • Christian — August 1st, 2007, 11:58 pm

    Tim, The proper answer to your question is quite extensive, but there are a few rational rules that you could fallow in order to eat healthier out of the home.

    1) Order lean meats; chicken, fish, turkey, London broil, tenderloin, and flank steaks (avoid rib eyes, t-bones and other fatty meats)
    2) Replace sides with salads and other low GI foods

    3) (If your at a restaurant) ask the type of oil they use and avoid trans fats, request they do not add butter to your steak (most steak houses add 300 calories of butter to enhance the presentation of your steak also true for vegetables and fish)

    4) Order salad dressing on the side

    5) Avoid eating three meals in one setting (appetizer, entrée, desert)

    6) Try ordering only a appetizer and a salad

    7) Look for items on the menu that are baked, grilled, broiled, poached, or steamed.

    8) Remember its ok to make requests!!

    In the restaurant or hotel its not very different from what you would normally eat at home only difference is that since your not the one preparing it, you need to inquire on the steps were excess calories and unhealthy foods could find there way into your other wise healthy meal.

    Does anyone have prior experience of the abs diet and how it compares to this specific one?

    Reply

  • Sally Siegel — August 2nd, 2007, 2:08 pm

    In 6 weeks, my cholesterol plummeted from 275 to 215. I’m 60 years old. Stopped eating meat, except once a week, stopped eating chicken skin, no eggs, no soda. Tons of fruit, veg, miso soup. Basically went Japanese. Also, daily 15 minutes of easy Yoga (headstands, shoulderstands, lots of flexing) and daily mountain bike rides of about 2/3 miles. My Endocrinologist at Lenox Hill in NYC was amazed!

    Reply

  • C.G.R — August 3rd, 2007, 7:18 am

    It seems that the principals of this particular diet rest in those that compose the Atkins diet (as was previously made clear) and the Glycemic Index guidelines which, from what I hear, work pretty well.

    Now, speaking of which, I would like to point out that such GI based diets as the Nutrisystem are great, however for people like me who are sensitive to the preservatives in the packaged food that is provided, it is not a good option (in my case I had some pretty bad allergic reactions).

    On the other end of the spectrum, some diets that require severe portion restrictions or long periods of fasting also prove to backfire; most of the time I end up gorging myself (mostly in the middle of the diet plan).

    It seems sensible to go on a diet like this, although I am hesitant to believe that so much weight could be lost in 30 days (but seeing is believing, right?). Overall, this diet does seem very interesting and realistic, and I think I will try it.

    Reply

  • Fishface — August 3rd, 2007, 9:18 am

    OK, love this and seems pretty easy. Big question – what if you DESPISE beans of all types? What is the substitute?

    Thanks!

    Reply

  • Lance Faletogo — August 3rd, 2007, 4:42 pm

    Thanks for the tips. I especially like your Saturday’s. Thats smart. Thanks again.

    Reply

  • christian — August 4th, 2007, 12:26 am

    Fishface,
    without beans this diet is going to be a little rough, but the few comparable substitutes would be; bulgur wheat, corn, rye kernels, barley, sweet potato, oatmeal, and fetuccine (although this is one of the best pasta’s to eat, still use in moderation). well most of these foods are not going to get you bodybuilding ripped, they will make you lose weight if you eat a serving with your meals as described above.

    Reply

  • Sunday’s Speedlinking 8-5-07 | Alex Shalman . com — August 5th, 2007, 9:28 am

    [...] Timothy Ferris on how to lose 20 lbs of fat in 30 days without doing any exercise. [...]

  • Hilary — August 6th, 2007, 4:18 pm

    i am under age, meaning under 18, so i cant buy “dietery supplements.” i have tried everything, without success, to loseweight. very discouraging. i am 6 feet tall, and weigh about 250, give or take. i am also a female, so it is a lot harder to lose than if i were a guy… :( please help me because i have just about given up hope… :( i cant help eating; i love food. it will help a little going bavk to school, cuz i wont be around food all the time, but still, im a teenager and have very low self-confidence as it is… thanks

    Reply

    • Nani — August 24th, 2011, 1:48 pm

      Hilary, this is your first step. I know how you feel, I am a comfort eater and female. I started this program today and I know that I will do well. “The greatest dreams are those that begin with eyes open”. Dream and believe that you will succeed. Your confidence will soar as soon as you take action. Even if the weight does not come off as fast as you expect; just loving yourself enough to move forward and take the first step will inspire you to keep going and you will gain confidence. Beauty is within and you are a beautiful creation; just know it and believe it. I will place you on my prayer list and check in to see how you are doing. Take care and you are doing great!

      Reply

  • Jordan — August 6th, 2007, 6:32 pm

    I’m on day 2 of your diet plan. i’m 150 lb. and 5’5. my diet contains the following food: pork, vegetables, chicken, fish, soup, water and tea. i love to swim and run a lot. do u think this that i’m doing is good?

    Reply

    • Roger — May 19th, 2012, 11:28 pm

      One of the best ways of managing our body flexible, fit and fat free is introducing effective exercises into our daily life. To reduce weight the exercises should be in the way such that whole body will be benefited with it as body parts are fully functioning inter-dependent ones.

      Reply

  • Aqeel — August 7th, 2007, 6:20 am

    Brilliant way to reduce weight. Thanks

    Reply

  • christian — August 7th, 2007, 10:42 pm

    Hilary, (this may be redundant but… very important!!)
    Lets start with the basis, regardless of the hype dietary supplements do nothing substantial… bottom line is: if your daily routine dose not give you results then no dietary supplement will give you contrary results. second thing (some people will disagree with the advice i am going to give you but this is the blunt truth without ornate tangents!) i know what a love of food is about, however, there is going to be a time where a CHOICE has to be made! do you want to enjoy food or look good? serious about weight loss? you need to look at yourself and have to ether acknowledge a period of mundane foods or continue with a less then happy lifestyle. if your ready the secret to weight loss is simple, here is a start for any serious person:
    at the start of each day fallow these steps 1) make 2x 4oz of chicken/turkey (no butter or high fats or breading). 2) make 2 salads place about 2 cups spinach or any greens in a bowl or any container, small handful of favorite vegetable, little cheese or nuts (helps if it has a lid like glad ware)
    3) place one chicken on top of salad close lid (there is your lunch and dinner) when ready to eat make some healthy dressing (balsamic vinegar, mustard, ginger) 4) make breakfast this can be a protein shake if you have to run or a egg white omelet with some feta cheese and onions peppers, add a slice of whole wheat bread.
    5) 8′o clock snack can be cottage cheese and veggies or even better would be tuna and hummus or for something more conventional try your favorite fruit.
    6) fallow this for three days and on the fourth day have a bowl of oatmeal in the morning with some beans with your chicken or turkey salads. do this pattern —- three days of low carbs and fourth have some beans and oatmeal.
    6) REPEAT!!!! EVERYDAY until you reach your weight goal. this is actually the most important aspect, the body is very good at reaching equilibrium so in order to lose weight you have to stay rigid and once your at a weight you feel happy with it is easier to maintain your body and you can return to a normal but healthy diet!
    also very important if you “fail” and eat something you know you should not have, remind your self its ok and regain your mental wit dont binge eat and keep going because you feel your diet is over. also i think its good practice to make up extra calories by going for a run or a long walk.. eg if you eat that ice cream sundae prepare for a 2 mile walk or run

    Reply

  • Maureen William — August 8th, 2007, 12:46 am

    Hi, very interesting and informative comments. Sounds alot like a Candida Cleanse, very, very strict on what can be eaten. Your diet is without the very pricey liquids and pills, which sounds nice to my wallet. I did loss alot of weight though, cleared my skin and my hair was shiny beautiful too.
    I have a few questions:
    1. Can rye bread from the health food store be eaten? This is rye without wheat. Just rye flour, water, sea salt, yeast and ground caraway. (ingred. in order on pkg.)
    2. Can light rye crackers be eaten? again the ingred. are rye, water, and salt from WASA. (ingred. in order on pkg.)
    3. What about Millet? Millet is not considered a grain, it is considered a seed and it is full of vitamins, minerals and even a little protein, not much. It cooks up like rice with a nutty flavor.
    Thanks from your time, can’t (weight) to hear from you. Sorry I couldn’t help my self. lol

    Reply

  • Blog » Blog Archive » — August 8th, 2007, 6:00 pm

    [...] slow carb diet [...]

  • Not Quite Fascinating — August 8th, 2007, 7:36 pm

    [...] hard to watch. G: welll then I’m gonna just have to wait til it’s out on DVD I guess G: How to Lose 20 Pounds of Fat in 30 Days J: i want her puppy!!!!! [on the Scott Baio show—a little white rodent-y dog] J: the more i see [...]

  • cmc — August 8th, 2007, 8:56 pm

    rye sounds good…. millet even better, though make sure you choose one serving of carbs per meal.

    ps. rye bread is better then brown rice, crackers are slightly better then the rye bread; millet is better then the crackers and finally red lentils are slightly better then the millet ; )

    Reply

  • niceguy — August 9th, 2007, 4:19 am

    ok what i usallly do is try to eat under 1,500 calories a day follow your basic meals without snaking during weekdays drink diet sodas water whatever doesnt hav calories in it cut down on suger with everything it helped me lose a stone in 2 weeks!

    Reply

  • Terrek — August 9th, 2007, 3:18 pm

    Thank you Tim! I went from 148 pounds to 135 in about 6 weeks. Thanks to the beans and the post-workout carbs, I still have enough energy to run, walk, and lift weights in some combination pretty much every day.

    I feel that I am at a good weight now, but my problem is that I’m not sure what to do now. I have started eating some berries along with the basic diet and have considered other additions: whole grains, soy milk, etc. What suggestions can anyone give me on how to ease off the diet without regaining the weight? Thanks!

    Reply

  • christian — August 9th, 2007, 6:13 pm

    terrek,
    go on a normal slow carb eating plan. basically keep four meals with the main components of meat around 4-7 oz/ vegetables (as much as you would like) / carbohydrate 1/2 -1 cup. the larger portions are for males or very active people. so in your case i would advise you continue with the same meal size with the addition of oatmeal, rye, brown rice, low fat diary and other equally healthy foods that you have not been enjoying. i also recommend buying a low gi or slow carb cookbook as they can help guide you in the direction in picking foods to maintain a healthy lifestyle (a great one are the GI planner cookbooks as your whole day can be neatly organized with 4 great tasting meals). remember its portion size (calories) that makes people gain weight dont think by adding different sub-sets of foods you will magically add inches to your waist, just dont go super sizing your meals and you will be fine: )

    Reply

  • tori — August 10th, 2007, 10:07 am

    hi! very nice weight loss plan.. i just accidentaly discovered this site! and its really cool!! im already on my 1st week.. and i really feel great! i havnt checked my weight yet…haha..il do it after 2weeks..i want it to be a surprise!

    anyway, i have some queries here.. i hope somebody could help me on these:

    – tom mentioned some supplements, specifically Chromium Polynicotinate (200mcg), unfortunately the only type i can find is Chromium Picolinate (200mcg), would dat be ok? whats d difference?

    – and could the diet be a success even if i dont take supplements or only one from the mentioned type of supplements?

    i hope someone could answer these.. thanks thanks! ;)

    Reply

  • Big-T — August 10th, 2007, 10:30 pm

    i’m starting this plan in two days. with the food plan you have set, i will also be going to the gym 4 times a week for about 90 mins. I hope to drop from 200 to 170.

    Reply

  • newbie mom — August 11th, 2007, 8:54 am

    i am starting this diet in 2 days. very busy lifestyle-working married 2 kids. should be a challenge to keep everyone happy. plan on using soups which no one has mentioned yet. will make bean soups with beans and meat and serve with a salad, soups with veggies, beans and meat, chili, etc. also could see stir fry w/ thai spices and black beans. breakfast will be challenge, as i always eat toast and coffe w/soy milk. wonder if i use a small amount of soy in my coffee will be ok? i often have to get up @4:00 and work 12 hour days as a medical rep so ill need to bring food with me to the hospitals and wonder how my energy level will be. i also wonder if i should ease into beans at every meal. i spend most of my time in operating rooms with little ventilation! post back afer my first week. female 5’4″ 143 lbs goal lose 15 lbs of fat at least. i work w//weights and cardio 3xweek.

    Reply

  • saraha — August 11th, 2007, 10:38 am

    1.5 weeks later and 6 pounds lighter, I’m just finishing a great brunch and thought I would share the recipe. A side-salad would have made it perfect, but I found the one-pot concept positively inspiring this morning.

    a) 1 portion lime-marinated, grilled chicken breast cut up or shredded
    b) 1 can black beans
    c) 1 red/yellow/orange bell pepper, diced (I actually used .5 red and .5 yellow)
    d) .5 Vidalia onion, chunked
    e) 1 clove garlic, minced
    f) small amount olive oil

    Preheat pot with olive oil, saute the veggies, add the black beans and bring to a boil. Add the chicken and simmer for awhile. Enjoy!

    Because of the prep time involved and the fact that I still have a 60-hour work week, I intend to double the ingredients and make a crock-pot batch for next week.

    Reply

  • Has anyone heard of the 18 in 4 diet ?? - fitness health weight loss exercise cardio - Weight-Loss-Forum.com — August 13th, 2007, 10:19 am

    [...] it all depends on your taste, but this plan gives energy, detox and weight loss. Here’s the site: http://www.fourhourworkweek.com/blog…g-any-exercise I know there are no fat people in concentration camps (meaning severe cut in calories WILL cause [...]

  • Jeff D — August 13th, 2007, 9:46 pm

    agree with most of what you’ve said. I’ve lost and kept off 40 pounds fo two years. Slow carbs are a good idea and the real enemy is sugar. Stay away from caffeine as well. Once you get to the desired weight you can add a few more carbs but not the sugar. Totally disagree with the one day/week blowout. Bad idea in my mind. Get in the groove of no sugar and don’t look back. The other issue is age. Tim, at 29 you may be able to get away with a few days of indulgance. Wait until you’re 45. Your metabolism will slow down and you won’t get away with eating Snickers bars. Great pics of meal.

    Reply

  • aD — August 15th, 2007, 2:58 pm

    Question: I am 17 years old i wrestled 189 last year, tore my ACL and i went up to 230 while recovering from my surgery. i lost 20lbs. of it with in 1 months, being young and having hi metabolism(sp) and ect. now i think i can go even lower than 189(what i used to wrestle at) and have been thinking you you guys think working out 3 times a week for 2 hours each is the same as working out 30 minutes 6-7 days a week? b/c i do not have nearly, nearly the enough time as i’ve had before. So i dont have 2 hours spare time for work outs. I’ve also have been doing no carbs and lots of protein diet and i has worked for me in the past and its doing fine right now, so i think im good on the diet part but im not too sure about working out only 30 minutes a day just b/c im so used to getting exhauted after 2 hours of working out.

    THANKS IN ADVANCE!

    Reply

  • Blog » — August 15th, 2007, 6:00 pm

    [...] " How to Lose 20 lbs. of Fat in 30 Days… Without Doing Any Exercise [...]

  • Mike in NC — August 15th, 2007, 9:00 pm

    I enjoyed the 4HWW book very much and one of the things I discovered that I really wanted to achieve/be in life was not to be fat any more. Finding this diet on the site motivated me to try my own version and I’m happy to report that I’ve lost 31 pounds in the past ten weeks. (From 213 down to 182.) And I did lose the first 20 in close to a month, however, I started exercising as well. I ride a stationary bike every morning for a half hour and try to walk a couple of miles in the evenings. I’ve eaten a lot of fruit in my diet and I know that’s counter to the advice above, but it’s still a healthier diet than the way I used to live. Avoiding rice, potato, pasta, bread, etc. has been the best thing I’ve ever done. I have tons more energy now and getting a lot more done at work and around the house.

    Maybe once I accomplish this goal of reaching a healthy weight, I can start work on the other dream I discovered while reading 4HWW–playing guitar on stage to at least 100 cheering fans.

    Thanks Tim–I think your book changed my life and certainly extended it!

    Reply

  • Mike in NC — August 15th, 2007, 9:07 pm

    One more thing–Jeff D is right: The splurge day once a week didn’t seem to work for me either. (I’m about to turn 40) I can easily gain 2-3 pounds in a day if I’m not careful and found myself spending 3-4 days a week trying to lose what I’d gained on my splurge day. I did much better once I tried to maintain my new eating habbits through the entire week. Having said that, I certainly do better sticking to my diet some days than others, so it’s possible I get a small benefit from my accidental mini-splurges.

    Reply

  • Jack Arns — August 16th, 2007, 10:17 am

    I just looked at this site for the first time and it reinforces my belief that the no/carb-low-carb worked for me (lost over 40 lbs in one year)and it’s time to hit it again. I cheat and it shows; gained 10-12 lbs back but still look alot better than I did 2 years ago. I am 59, work out at least 3 X weekly including jogging, and feel pretty good. NOTE: I’ve always run and worked out but the significant weight loss never hapened til I cut the carbs!
    Question…..I still retain an area of fat between in the lower abdomen that is real stubborn. Any suggestions???
    Also, for more scientific back-up to Tim’s Plan, read “The Carbohydrate Addict’s Diet”, Dr.’s Heller & Heller. One can actually become addicted to carbohydrates. Thanks for all the positive blogs…….

    Reply

  • dan baker — August 17th, 2007, 8:12 am

    Hello!

    I’ve been living this diet for 30 days now. Just finished and wanted to let you all know: it absolutely works! I’ve lost 18 lbs. and gone from a waist size 38 to 34. I’m working out 3 days/week (weights only) with a variation of the “1 set until exhaustion” tim recommended in another post. I’ve got better muscle definition, a ton of energy, and i’m weighing less than i have in 5 years. I’m going to keep going with this and see where it leads… Thanks again for the great information!

    Reply

  • Andrew — August 19th, 2007, 1:55 am

    I totally agree with all of this, I just have one question. Why don’t you drink milk?

    Reply

  • Magi — August 19th, 2007, 5:54 am

    Hi everybody … I have started this Diet 2 days ago. But I really have problems with the breakfast. I rather go to the office with an empty stomach rather than having eggs or chicken early in the morning!!! By the way, is home made Hummus without tahini (I mean chickpea, garlic and some olive oil) a good afternoon snack? Wish you all luck.

    Reply

  • Negin — August 19th, 2007, 6:17 am

    Hello,

    I’ve heard the peanuts are also under catagory of legumes. Can it be consumed in this diet?

    Thanks

    Reply

  • Jonathan — August 19th, 2007, 10:41 pm

    Here you spike calories one day per week, and in your Geek to Freak post, you reduce calories 50% one day per week. Do you do both in each week? So five days normal, 1 day spike, 1 day 50% down?

    Reply

  • Success Begins Today — August 20th, 2007, 9:44 am

    Deliberate Actions: Simple Diet For Success…

    …

  • Carlos — August 20th, 2007, 2:18 pm

    Tim,
    This is great stuff. I tried this and today is my 4th week. I have lost 17 pounds on the scale. I had a question on how you tracked your 10 pound muscle gain? I tried your HIT/strength training suggestion as well. Doing weights only twice(upper/lower body) a week for 30 min tops. I have saved a ton of time!! I do cardio 5 times a week but I consider it pleasurable/stress relieving. So I certainly gained some muscle but I haven’t found a good way to track it. I am ready for another 4 weeks on this protocol ;-) Love the glass of wine part best.. hehe

    Reply

  • The Boston Bachelor — August 22nd, 2007, 10:18 pm

    Link of the Week: How to Gain 34 lb. of Muscle in 4 Weeks…

     
    By THEBOSTONBACHELOR.COM / August 22, 2007
    Those of you familiar with Tim Ferris may already know about this, but if not, here’s something for all the “gurly menâ€? out there looking to “pump up.”
    And for the people out there who just w…

  • Donna — August 22nd, 2007, 10:51 pm

    Well i just want to know a good diet menu to use for me to start off on im 206 pounds and really want to be skinny again.i am single and want to love myself again before i can let anyone love me ..Please someone let me know what kinds of low carb foods to eat to start off with??????

    Reply

    • yetti — September 3rd, 2011, 7:08 am

      hi donna,i suggest you start off with some simply home remedies like a full tsp ofmayple cyrup,half a lemon and cayenne pepper to add taste.it really works.if you want it to work faster, u should diet also.eat litttle quantity of calories.i fasted on it for ten days and the results are amazing.i looked thinner and sexier.good luck

      Reply

  • TimH — August 23rd, 2007, 9:02 am

    Donna,
    If you simply go by the meal plan above, I assure you that you will love yourself again for just simply doing this! This meal plan is your “low carb” meals to start with. Or “slow carb” rather. I have shrunk from 2XL shirts to L. I went from 40-42″ pants to 34-36″ and have lost 50lbs since Jan.07. I promise you that this works! I’ve never seen anything like it and I have tried them ALL! Now I have backed off the last month and a 1/2 and have still lost. This plan kicks your matabolism into high-speed.

    Be blessed and I know this will go well for you!

    Tim H.
    Maumelle, AR

    Reply

  • Brent Spychalski — August 24th, 2007, 3:32 pm

    Tim,

    Thanks for the blog on how to lose 20lbs in 30days. I am going to try this method. I am getting married in 50 days and need to cut some weight fast! Nothing like a looming deadline to provide focus. I will let you know how I do and what I am doing. Since I love to cook I will post some recipes with these basic ingredients. Scale today says 297lbs. Here I go!!!

    Reply

  • Jagermeister — August 24th, 2007, 10:28 pm

    For a reason I had already acquired this meal habit from my father, who “repeat” his “lunch” meal on breakfast time.
    Just I went further to open water swimming, and strenght training is in my life since I could put it up with my bones around 15 of age. Now at 44 being a female of small bone structure and short build (read Zwerg)I still am around the struggle to fill in a bit at least my fragile wrist and 4 years ago I have been suprised with the hyper of my thyroid (I was shaking like Muhammed Ali).
    I will test your ideas for sure, and I have been already controling my T3 and T4′s with mind power and low-worry-diet (what doesn’t kill me, will make me only stronger – wait and see).
    Sometimes I have quite to the point of out-of-cage fighting with some persistent road-block-heads, who have insinuated too much I am an anorex bic, sura I wanna fill the gap on my wrists and am not that much happy with 96 – 105lbs oscilating in constant decades, however I had proven jab power just to end malicious comment. Isn’t it some progress?
    I can only recommend your low-carb-diet and at least for me it tastes delicious. I ate 6-8 small meals a day, blame my T3 and T4 I don’t care, so far I am happy with it and without taking that methazole thing to kill my hyper. I took it for one year and went off with my own experiment to substitute the killing chemicals with brain power and protein intake. The more I read and hear around, the less I worry too, and it helps a lot.
    I HAVE YOUR 4HWW EBOOK!!! YEAH! Where is the Portuguese edition? :-( I have 3 nephews who still don’t read English…
    Loulou

    Reply

  • Bonnie — August 27th, 2007, 4:31 pm

    I started this diet 2 weeks ago. I lost 4 pounds in the first 5 days. “Whoo-Hoo!”

    Then gained 1-1/2 pounds on my “go wild” day, dammit! “Boo!” (And I didn’t go COMPLETELY crazy, just a little candy and pasta!)

    But I think having the day off to look forward to helps me with my will power on the other days. When I’m tempted to cheat, I tell myself I can hold off for a while longer because my day off is coming up! It’s a “reward” day for me. Unfortunately, it also sets me back, just as Mike in NC said, above.

    So my net results after 2 weeks… only 1 pounds lost, as I gained 1-1/2 pounds each day on my 2 “off” days. (How come I can gain 1-1/2 pounds in one day but can never lose that much in one day? Grrrr!)

    OK, I’ll be honest… I cheated a bit and had cereal (Kashi) for breakfast a few times during the 2nd week. And I slacked off on exercising (but with the title of this post, I figured that wouldn’t matter… it did). And in the middle of my 2 weeks, I had a week-long monthly “visitor” that screwed up my system (ugh, what we women go through!) that I’m blaming for my (hopefully temporary) setback in week 2.

    When I stuck with it and exercised (my 1st week), I lost quickly. So I’m gonna continue doing this… without cheating and with more exercise. Not sure about giving up the “Day off” or not. I see others are having mixed results with that part.

    Thanks Tim!

    Reply

  • dbarnard — August 28th, 2007, 6:21 pm

    RE: Beans…

    I dscovered the secert to fixing beans a while back, so that they turn out rich and creamy in a fraction of the cooking time. Just add 1/2 teaspoon of baking soda to the mix, after soaking them overnight. Cooking time is about an hour or so. Cooking the beans in low-sodium chicken broth, maybe with some garlic and onions… yum!

    Oh, and no gas! be sure to rinse them well after their soak.

    Reply

  • Chris — August 29th, 2007, 10:40 pm

    I’ve been on this diet and a high intensity work out for about 4 weeks now (since I read this article). I’m eating about 3 meals a day though, and my workout is 3x per week, 25 minutes a workout, very high intensity. I split the muscles into groups A and B – I do A on monday and friday, B on wednesday, and switch it the following week.

    So far here’s what I’ve got. I started at about 153lbs and 15% bodyfat or so (not exactly fat, but a little soft). I dropped to 146lbs within the first few weeks… fearing I may be losing some muscle I upped the portions slightly and am at 148lbs at the moment. Haven’t measured my body fat, but my waist is about 29″ at the moment (smallest it’s ever been in my life).

    I don’t know if I’m obsessing over it, because I’ve honestly never been ripped and I’m getting pretty darn close with this diet, but I feel like I fluctuate constantly. Last few days I feel like I’m getting soft and could swear the 2lbs I gained back is just fat and not muscle at all. Could there be other factors involved, like water retention? Should I add cardio back into the mix (I’ve done light-medium intensity cardio off and on for years and could swear it never made any damn difference at all in my physique). I seemed to lose fat very rapidly at first with zero cardio, but I wonder if something has changed (like slowed metabolism).

    I know actual weight is probably a poor judge of what’s really going on (since today, for example, I went from 150lbs this evening from carrying the last 4 meals, to 147lbs after a quick bathroom stop)… but I can’t figure out why I seem to look a little different on almost a daily basis.

    Reply

  • Aaron — August 30th, 2007, 12:05 pm

    Chris,

    I wouldn’t worry too much, definitely sounds like you are obsessing. The 2lbs could easily be water weight. I weigh 180lbs (my natural weight for 4-5years now), and have a waist of 31 inches. Do not sweat a few lbs.

    Reply

  • Jonathan — August 31st, 2007, 6:34 pm

    I’m on a similar diet. I am not trying to loose weight, but it’s the inevetable outcome as my fat is burning off faster than I am gaining muscle. I estimate that in the last month I have gained about 10 pounds of muscle while dropping 10 lbs in weight. This is an overall fat loss of 20 lbs. I workout 7 days a week though.

    Monday is Chest and one tricept exercise.
    Tuesday is Back and one bicept exercise.
    Wednesday is Abs and 30 minutes of cardio.
    Thursday is Shoulders and 3 to 4 Tricept exercises to include dips.
    Friday is Legs and 3 to 4 Bicept exercises to include pullups.
    Saturday is Abs and 30 minutes of cardio.
    Sunday is light abs and 30 minutes of cardio. My weight load is at least 65% of my one rep max.

    I hate cardio so I do ten minutes on the bike and then run to the elipticle for ten, and finish on the treadmill for ten.

    When I wake up I have a Protein Shake (40Grams of protein) and workout an hour later. I have another shake in the last half of my hour workout. I eat a meal one hour later consisting of two peices on whole wheat toast with butter, some tuna with vinigar and olive oil wixed in, and three boiled eggs. I chase this down with a 12oz glass of skim milk. Two to three hours later is almost the same thing. Two to three hours after that I have 2 peices of french toast three boiled eggs and a banana with a glass of milk. Finally two hours after that I have another protein shake. I drink water throughout the day especially before, during and after my workout.

    While it may seem like alot of exercise, I think I found my happy balance. I’m hungry almost all the time even though I’ve increased my food intake by double, and I feel like I have a lot more energy. I’m also sleeping better, and my skin is starting to look smoother with better color, and by split training my chest and tri’s I have been able to overcome a shoulder injury that I received in Afghanistan. The added muscle growth looks great too. I have about 20 more lbs of fat to loose and expect that it will be gone in the next three to four weeks as my metabolism gets higher with a more lean tissue in my body.

    One thing I do, is if I really really feel like I have to have an icecream, I go ahead and eat it. I think a lot of dieters quit after they give into their urges because they feel like they’ve failed. I look at it as just reward for hard work in the gym. If I want it, I’ll eat it. This way, I go right back to my routine like I never missed a beat.

    I hope by sharing my routine, someone might be able to find something in it that will help them adjust theirs.

    Reply

  • Carlos — September 1st, 2007, 1:01 pm

    Hi Tim I started my diet on 07/04/07 at the time I weight in at 319 lbs. I am 29 yrs old. I have been dieting eating protein foods. Got rid of juices and soda. And trying to maintain a low carb diet. I am taking some diet pills call META BURN EF from MRM and also taking Fiber for colon cleansing. As for physical activities I walk 2 miles each day 4 to 5 times a week and also play basketball. I now weigh 293 lbs. Something weird happen though this week . Last Saturday I weigh 292lbs, on wednesday (4days later) i weigh 289lbs. On wed and thurs i played hardcore basketball with my friends I thought i was going to loose a couple more pounds. But today i weight myself and i weight 293lbs. Do you know why i gained 4 lbs. i even weigh myself in 3 different scales. but that is my weight . please let me know

    Reply

  • mcLarson — September 2nd, 2007, 7:02 pm

    carlos keep up the good work and dont be discouraged by fluctuations in weight. Your weight can vary by whats in your stomach/intestines, and how much water you have (your body is like 70% water!). Just keep at it and you will lose more weight. Also since you are exercising more, you are gaining muscle mass and muscle weighs more than fat so if you dropped from 319 to 293, you’ve lost more than that amount in fat because you gained some muscle weight

    Reply

  • Joesph — September 2nd, 2007, 11:23 pm

    Real Quick: Carlos that is probably water weight. People’s weight can swing 5 pounds in a day.

    A great pre-workout protein shake that boosts energy.

    1 small container of yogurt (I prefer strawberry/banana lite and fit)
    1/8 cup peanut butter
    1 serving of protein powder (I use GNC’s 100% chocolate Whey)
    1 handful of pecans
    1/8-1/4 cup of soy milk
    1 cup of ice

    mix in blender. If you weight train seriously or are looking to get bigger muscles add in an NO2 supplement (I use NO explode)

    Reply

  • amber — September 3rd, 2007, 1:43 pm

    hey guys and girls i have been trying to lose weight for years and all my friends tell me is work out and nothing about food if anyone reads this please email me and tell me how to lose weight and get skinny my email is [email protected]

    Reply

  • Dustin — September 3rd, 2007, 8:10 pm

    Hi, can a little olive oil be used on this diet? to cook things? stir fries etc? Also the pork I’m assuming should be lean?

    Reply

  • PJClub — September 5th, 2007, 4:52 pm

    Awesome info, Tim. I never thought of repeating the same meals over and over – I was drilled with the “variety” principle from childhhood. I like the simplicity of repetition concept — I must give this a try. Great stuff….

    Reply

  • Brian Surprenant — September 6th, 2007, 11:44 pm

    I can’t stand beans could someone let me know what else I could eat to sub for the beans…..thanks please e-mail me
    [email protected]

    Reply

  • Sarah — September 7th, 2007, 9:57 am

    Hi Tim!

    I am 18 yrs old anweigh 70 kg ( 178 cm) I want to lose about 10-12 kg because i am interested in modeling. However i want to do it in a safe way to aoid any poblems with eating disorders. Will your diet enable this even though i am on a limit, only wanting to lose about 10 kg? and then keeping it that way. I eat a lot of whole grain already becuase my stomach can´t cope with white carbs at all. Is it possible to eat wolegrain pasta and rice or are they completley out of the picture?

    Reply

  • ScottishDancer — September 7th, 2007, 1:07 pm

    Milk! I can’t go without it in my coffee. It is fat free, but taboo? I don’t know if I can live without my Venti Fat Free 3-spelnda Latte.

    Reply

  • DesperateModel — September 9th, 2007, 10:28 pm

    I am 5’9 and 140 pounds.Unfortunatly since i’m a model that’s pretty overwieght and I need to be at MOST 128lb…by October 10th( for a photoshoot) and ideally 124lb by October 24 will this work for me? If not what will?

    Reply

  • Joesph — September 10th, 2007, 10:21 am

    ScottishDancer,

    Beware of anything that says low fat, reduced fat, or fat free because those products are usually loaded with sugar and carbs.

    Reply

  • CoryBergs — September 10th, 2007, 11:26 pm

    I was recently turned on to this blog, and today I started the regimen. For the past week I’ve indugled in things I will be missing for the next 30 days: beer, fried rice, and pasta. As a college student, these things constitute what I most often eat.. until now. I am 5’7″, weighing 150 pounds, with a somewhat athletic build from surfing. Through this protocol, I plan to lose 5 or so pounds while gaining some muscle mass, but nothing too serious. I just want to feel and look in better shape. i.e. a 6 pack.

    However, there’s something that concerns me. Since I ate breakfast (egg whites with one whole egg and lentils) at 11am, I have had no appetite, at now 6:30. Should I keep eating even though I am not hungry?

    Reply

  • DoneeO — September 12th, 2007, 3:51 pm

    I’ve been on this diet for six weeks lost 30lbs of fat so far.I’m looking to lose another 20lbs of fat.

    This diet really works great for me!!

    Reply

  • Trevor — September 14th, 2007, 12:04 am

    Been on this for 5 or 6 weeks now. I’m getting so ripped there are veins on my lower abs and even my delts. Oh, and I haven’t done cardio in over a month now. I’m gaining strength of muscle faster than I have with any other workout.

    Just another example where less is more. I’m 25 and have been working out off and on since I was about 15. I’ve done every diet and workout program, including the ridiculous stuff you find in bodybuilding mags (that require several hours in the gym per week, and dozens of sets per body part). I’ve never been ripped, maybe 14% bodyfat at the lowest.

    Now I work out only 2-3 times per week for 30 minutes. It’s easy to find the time, and I can go 100% every workout (I do high intensity training, 1-2 sets per body part). HIT is hard to buy into at first..like most guys in the gym these days I was addicted to pump, convinced that countless redundant sets were the only way to put on mass and have definition. It just isn’t true.

    Right now I’m adhering to the diet 80-90% of the time, leaving my cheat days for when I go out with friends. However, I found it’s not as hard as you’d think to follow this diet even in restaurants. Order a side of vegetables and don’t touch the baked potato. I also drink about 2-3 bottles of red wine per week…not that I recommend that, but it hasn’t affected me getting ripped.

    I’m not really sure how I feel about cardio at this point. I’ve done so much of it in the past and gotten very little results for all the time it takes (and most the time it just made me more hungry and burned off muscle). I can’t help but notice how 90% of the people in the cardio room at the gym are fat, and I never see ripped people doing cardio. I figure any cardio I get around to doing will either be outdoors or something social like a sport. I’m not spending another minute indoors on a treadmill.

    Reply

  • marla johnson — September 15th, 2007, 12:17 pm

    I am female and need to loose 100lbs. I would love to do this diet but according to some of the comments, I need to make modifications. Tim, can you instruct me what to do? I’m ready to start ASAP! Thank you so much!

    Reply

  • nola miller — September 15th, 2007, 8:19 pm

    are things like bulgur, couscous, and barley ok on this diet?

    Reply

  • nikkie Delhi — September 19th, 2007, 12:47 am

    Try these beleive you!!

    1. In empty stomach drink a glass of fenugreek seeds soaked in water. take a teaspoon of fenugreek seeds and soak it in a glass of water overnight and then drink in the morning.

    2 breakfast. very imp meal. dont eat low carb breakfst. you need energy for entire day. Have three toasts with egg white omelette and a cup of coffee with sugar free.

    3 lunch- normal light lunch. have salad, brown bread and one portion of white meat or curry and then eat a fruit.

    4. evening have a cup of tea with bran biscuits or proteinous biscuits or eat a grilled sandwitch(no mayonaise or low fat cheese)

    6. You need to have very light dinner. try fruits and milk or a bowl of wheat flakes/corn flakes in milk. Try to finish your dinner by 8.30pm

    Dont sleep immediately. take a walk or just roam around in the room.

    You will lose a lot of weight if you relegiously follow this.

    Reply

  • sam — September 19th, 2007, 10:37 am

    hey

    ppl i did start this diet; its my third day today but i feel im bucking up!! is this normal to bulck up b4 loosing weigh?!

    plz reply soon.

    thanks

    Reply

  • Mark — September 20th, 2007, 3:20 am

    buck or bulk is that?

    I think it is normal to buck up, as in get more energy.
    Eating less, especially combined with eating better, means your digestive system is doing much easier work which in turn means you have more energy.

    I know when I have had stuff to do over a day or two that I simply MUST do-to stay alert and ‘with it’ energywise, I have skipped breakfast and lunch and eaten when I have finished doing what needed doing and then only a light meal (not advised – eat properly and regularly folks)

    If you meant buLk – then I dunno :)

    Mark

    Reply

  • Dana — September 20th, 2007, 2:01 pm

    This is my 4th day on the diet…i’m going to weight myself before my cheat day…wish me luck…keep up the good work eveyone!

    Reply

  • sam — September 20th, 2007, 3:02 pm

    no sorry i ment bulcking up!!

    and im eating 100 times a day.. no oil no carps, just chicken lentals and vegies.. all boiled! all healthy

    today 4th day and i havent lost anything .. if anything i feel heavyer! i dont know if its just in my head coz of the amount im eating or will i actually gain weight?! but then i think about it and say how will i put on weight.. im not eating anything faty at all! this is the first time i actually stick to something and get to the forth day!! i dont wana screw it up! my sisters wedding is in december and i really wana fit into a nice dress!! i weigh 83kg now!! i was 74kg 2 months ago but got cought up with life and didnt think of what im eating!! im 21 i wana look pretty!! ppl help me!!

    Sam x x x

    Reply

    • Linxi — April 24th, 2012, 11:32 am

      Sam
      I you wants to loose weight try in a morning drinking worm Water with lemon , and after 1 hour you can eat breakfast .. Try this .. trust me it works in one week you going to loose 5-7pounds.

      Reply

  • Angie — September 21st, 2007, 9:52 am

    Tim,

    Thanks for the book and blog. This is great information. I read your post about being a lacto-ovo vegetarian and your recommendation to add 1% milk to the meal. I don’t like milk but can do yogurt (unsweetended of course!), cottage cheese or low-fat chesses, although this breaks the “no white food” rule. Can you comment on this?

    Reply

  • Deirdre — September 22nd, 2007, 11:37 am

    Dear people,

    are you guys sure it works? Caus I don’t and want to do exercise and eat at the same time.

    Love ya lots

    Deirdre

    Reply

  • Lynne — September 25th, 2007, 10:47 am

    Hi,

    I have just started the diet and I’m on day 2. Boy the bean part is a killer but I’m dealing with it; :no pain no gain!”
    I know we can have peas so I am assuming we can have pea soup right? And how about canned Lentil soup or is that too much sodium? I would appreciate any feed back on my questions. I will update my progress as I go. I want to lose 15 lbs so I hope this works. :) Good luck to everyone!

    Reply

  • The Perfumer — September 25th, 2007, 8:41 pm

    After reading Four Hour Work Week, Tim is my hero. I giving it 30 days and will check in often. If I have to suffer with this diet for thirty days, all of you will too.
    Say a prayer for me, wish me luck or do whatever you do.

    Reply

  • David R — September 26th, 2007, 11:25 am

    Hello,

    I have been following the fat loss program for about 2 months now and the muscle gain program for about a month. I start Aug 1 2007 at 5′ 8″ 240lbs 38″ waist and as of today, September 26 2007, I am currently 213 and 34″ waist. I have followed the “colorado experiment” the past month and have noticed substantial differences in the tone of my arms and strength as well. My overall goal is to drop down to approximately 190lbs.

    I have been following a low-fat, low-carb, high protein diet, taking the 7th day of each week off the diet. Excersice has been mainly walking and jogging with some swimming occasionally. I have been lifting weights for almost a month, I have not noticed such substantial gains as the colorado experiment; however, as I had previously mentioned, my personal gains are far more than other work out/diet programs I have followed.

    It does work, you just need to stick to it

    Reply

  • Dana — September 26th, 2007, 11:34 am

    So I’m into my second week of the diet…and it definitely works! I see results already…both from my clothes and on the scale! I love this diet!

    Reply

  • lynne — September 26th, 2007, 11:41 am

    Dana, that is great news! How is your engery level? And how are the beans working for you?
    Lynne

    Reply

  • Dana — September 26th, 2007, 4:25 pm

    My energy level is good. I haven’t been napping, which is something I usually do. I’ve been working out every morning for 30-60 minutes as well except for my cheat day! As the beans go…I LOVE beans! I like to eat red beans with balsamic vinegar and a little garlic powder…I recommend them!

    Reply

  • Nick — September 26th, 2007, 7:54 pm

    Hey guys, just started this diet today. Sounds pretty good if you ask me!

    I have a quick question — I know it says black beans, but are red beans okay too?

    Thanks!

    Nick

    Reply

  • Gabriella — September 27th, 2007, 5:40 am

    Hi Dana,

    Since there is so little conclusive information by women in these comments, I wonder if I could ask you your age?

    Sally Siegel who commented on August 2nd, said she was 60, and refers to a marvelous reduction in cholesterol levels, but she says nothing about her weight or body tone.

    Also: are you using canned beans or soaking them overnight and cooking them yourself?

    If you are taking the day off, as Tim advises, how does this affect your overall progress?

    Thanks,

    Gabriella in Spain

    Reply

  • Juan Navarro — September 27th, 2007, 10:12 am

    Is that possible to lose all this weight and keep my body without extra skin?

    If this not, please, tell me what to do to keep skin healthy.

    Reply

  • Dana — September 27th, 2007, 10:47 am

    Hi Gabriella! I’m 20…and to be honest have been using all canned and/or frozen veggies and beans! I think the day off is helpful because if you really want something you’re just like “oh, I can just have it Saturday!” Then when Saturday came I went all out, but was looking forward to Sunday and eating better things again, which was good!

    Reply

  • 31andfat — September 30th, 2007, 12:38 am

    http://31andfat.wordpress.com/ is still chugging along. I have had success and I have had failure.

    Need advice, criticism, recipes or just plain support.

    Reply

  • Dana — September 30th, 2007, 3:58 pm

    Hey there! I’m always here for support…I need it to!!! We all do! :-D

    Reply

  • Jazz — September 30th, 2007, 10:57 pm

    I have been on this diet for about 5 days now and I have lost approximately 4.5 – 5 pounds. I’m going to say this clearly: This diet DOES work. I have noticed already that i have lost some weight in my face, fingers, and shoulders, which are the first places you notice weight loss. To those who don’t know, weight loss normally occurs from the upper body and works it way down to the lower body.
    What I found out is that instead of having a “go wild” day, every couple of days I reward myself with a piece of chocolate.. NOT a bar.. but a piece. This way, I don’t have to have a binge day because I’m not tempted to, and I haven’t been tempted. I had a chocolate muffin with chocolate icing one night (I think my third day) and I STILL lost weight when I checked my weight in the morning. I still go to school, so it’s easier for me to eat the same meals over and over again. This is my normal schedule:

    7:00am – One whole egg with black beans and a cup of cappucino.
    11:00am to 12:00am – Peanuts. (If you grab a small handful of peanuts every 15-20, I find it keeps my metabolism racing.. and I can feel it by the end of the day.)
    2:30pm – Plain beans, doesn’t matter which kind. I probably eat about 1/2 to a cup depending on how hungry I am.
    7:00 – 8:00pm: For dinner, about 95% of the time we have a lean meat and some sort of vegetable, which is great.
    11:00 – Bed.

    It’s not that hard to choose a selection that follows the rules at a restaurant. For example, if you want a burger, order it without a bun, and a salad or other vegetable instead of french fries. This way, it’s several hundred calories less, and few carbs.

    Ladies, to those who want to lose weight…. I AM a female myself. If you follow this diet, and you can’t seem to lose any weight, it’s possible you might need to downsize on your proportions, drink ONLY water, and eat more vegetables rather than legumes for a couple days. Or maybe, cut back on the “go wild” days. Its also possible you’re not determined enough. Get a little more sleep, too.

    Next week, I will post my progress on this site. I will, however, be checking back everyday to see the progress and comments/questions others leave, and reply to them.

    Start weight: 157 pounds
    Current weight: 153
    Goal weight: 125 pounds

    Reply

  • Jenny — October 1st, 2007, 12:35 am

    What a bunch of whiners! “I need milk in my coffee.” And why the #!$

    Reply

  • ChipotLoser — October 1st, 2007, 9:47 am

    Your diet looks surprisingly like mine! I’m losing over 4 pounds a week. I eat at Chipotle Mexican Grill twice a day, every day. No rice, no tortilla. I can’t believe it’s working.

    I get extra guacamole too.

    Eric

    Reply

  • Lynne — October 1st, 2007, 10:15 am

    Hey, what if we don’t eat so many beans and eat more of the veggies, chicken, lean meat etc. Is this ok or do you need the beans in order to make this work for your body. Are the beans just for more calorie intake? I haven’t been eating beans at every meal but I am not eating any white foods. I have to say, if anything, I do feel better. Anyone have any feed back on this?

    Lynne

    Reply

  • Saraha — October 1st, 2007, 11:05 am

    Hi,

    I’m going to respond to several people/posts with this comment, so please bear with me. :)

    Regarding the beans…besides additional protein and calories, they do have a diuretic effect. I only learned this through a web search that was triggered by my own body’s reaction to the diet.

    I am a 48-year-old female and have lost 10 pounds in a couple of months. I do cheat one day per week…and I cheated for a whole week while on a scuba diving vacation in Bonaire. The diving seemed to make up for the cheating so I didn’t lose any ground that week. Yea! I have noticed, though, that the “cheat day” results in my weight loss forming a spiral pattern instead of a straight down pattern. Now I’m learning to moderate my cheating to minimize the up-tick on the scales. I am halfway to my weight loss goal…and intend to be at my goal before the holiday season begins!

    I love this diet because it’s become something I can live with. Most diets fail because they don’t become a part of one’s lifestyle.

    Keep up the good work, everyone!

    Reply

  • SV — October 1st, 2007, 11:15 am

    Guys

    I started the diet on September 21st and have lost 5lb in the first week. It is good so far. Will keep you posted.

    -Siva

    Reply

  • Rob in Australia — October 2nd, 2007, 10:41 pm

    Hi everyone

    thanks Tim! Ijust started this diet this morning :) I’m 33, prof musician, and went from a fairly fit guy to a married guy 4 years later…and 18 kilos heavier! Sick of it…its not me, and affects me in so many ways. With the birth of my son, I feel motivated again. Before i got married, I worked out heavy to failure, one set, and only once a week and got so strong…this is after years of volume training. Mike Mentzer just was so logical that I decided to give abbreviated hard traing a shot. I ended up doing full range squats with more that my bodyweight for 17-20 reps (the hardest thing I’ve ever done tho…) but in a week, I’d break all my records without fail. So I’ve gone back to it and feel great already. Boxing, MMA, swimming and walking were all done in a week so my diet was terrible but didnt matter as I burnt it all off. Now with a family it isnt possible to train like this- so the diet which is very convenient and easy, WILL do the work…-I tried it last month for ten days- it was pure magic! By the way- it is my experience that one of the biggest lies are supplements. So much money and it is a hoax. Why else does the latest greatest, go out of the market so soon, only to be replaced with the next? Garbage, thats why. The best gains i made in strength and fitness and speed, were supplement-less!

    Will keep you all updated on my progress…
    ps keeping a journal is brilliant- it was going thru my old journal that inspired this re-dedication. tchau!

    Reply

  • Rob in Australia — October 2nd, 2007, 11:02 pm

    Hi everyone

    Ijust started this diet this morning :) I’m 33, prof musician, and went from a fairly fit guy to a married guy 4 years later…and 18 kilos heavier! Sick of it…its not me, and affects me in so many ways. With the birth of my son, I feel motivated again. Before i got married, I worked out heavy to failure, one set, and only once a week and got so strong…this is after years of volume training. Mike Mentzer just was so logical that I decided to give abbreviated hard traing a shot. I ended up doing full range squats with more that my bodyweight for 17-20 reps (the hardest thing I’ve ever done tho…) but in a week, I’d break all my records without fail. So I’ve gone back to it and feel great already. Boxing, MMA, swimming and walking were all done in a week so my diet was terrible but didnt matter as I burnt it all off. Now with a family it isnt possible to train like this- so the diet which is very convenient and easy, WILL do the work…-I tried it last month for ten days- it was pure magic! By the way- it is my experience that one of the biggest lies are supplements. So much money and it is a hoax. Why else does the latest greatest, go out of the market so soon, only to be replaced with the next? Garbage, thats why. The best gains i made in strength and fitness and speed, were supplement-less!

    Will keep you all updated on my progress…
    ps keeping a journal is brilliant- it was going thru my old journal that inspired this re-dedication. tchau!

    Reply

  • chantelle — October 3rd, 2007, 10:41 am

    i’m 5.4 and i am 9.4 im really skinny round the waist but my legs are fat how can i loose weight off my legs??? i think it might be off all my running

    Reply

  • Dana — October 3rd, 2007, 11:59 am

    Here’s a simple recipe if you get bored with beans!

    it’s a mashed potato alternative…and tastes great!

    Put a little olive oil in a pan…add a can of white kidney beans, mash them with a spoon or whatever you choose, add a bit of water to get the consistency you want, season with a little bit of salt, pepper, garlic powder, and some parmesan cheese if you wish…tastes awesome and cooks in no time at all!

    Reply

  • jay — October 3rd, 2007, 1:34 pm

    I am a current college student who is looking for exactly what you offer. The only problem is that it is very hard to cook here. What are some other foods that i could make without a large amount of cooking?

    Reply

  • Jena — October 3rd, 2007, 10:43 pm

    thank you for this, Tim. And while I’m at it, thank you for existing at all. you are quite obviously one of the few who has discovered what it is to truly be in the zone. I am currently experimenting with this diet right now and am so thankful for the comments from this post and your replies to them. i was very happy to read that salsa was an option because i am a sauce junkie and needed some flavor badly. i cannot wait for dieters gone wild day. i read about this concept a while ago and just knew i connected to it. i am definitely the type of person to eat for comfort and enjoys foods that are not at all good for me. knowing that i can have a day to eat with reckless abandon makes the other 6 days totally tolerable. i am so excited to watch my body change and my cravings switch to more healthy ones. i think i’ll even dare to take before and after pictures to show the female results! also, i love the red wine at night. just one lovely glass as i wind down. thanks again to you and your readers. we rule!

    Reply

  • Dana — October 4th, 2007, 2:46 pm

    Jay–
    I’m also a college student. I find canned veggies to be simple…most just need to be warmed…or frozen…and for meat, I usually individually freeze each piece so I use it as needed…all my meals are done in no time with minimal effort. I usually buy what i need for the week so it’s there and you can just grab it!

    Reply

  • Wangzen — October 8th, 2007, 4:38 pm

    Hi Tim, your book is an inspiration! I have already started outsourcing certain things to “my man in India” and have started this method of losing weight of yours. I’ll let you know how it goes…

    Reply

  • Fiona — October 8th, 2007, 5:05 pm

    thanks for the info but what if one is a fussy eater like me, I do not like beans of any sort, I do not eat dairy products I like eggs, and for veggies I like mixed and more raw veggies so what can I eat instead of the beans. thanks I want to loose 20 pounds in a few weeks can I do it

    Reply

  • Schultzie — October 9th, 2007, 8:40 pm

    What about “sprouted grain bread” as a carb such as Food for Life’s 7 Grain bread? It’s organic and flourless and makes some killer toast to go with those yummy eggs. Also makes a killer turkey sam.

    Reply

  • kt — October 11th, 2007, 11:31 pm

    tim if that is your half of a face in the picture..you are smoking hot my friend.:)

    Reply

  • Josh — October 13th, 2007, 9:08 pm

    This diet sounds very intriguing! I’ve been on them all from atkins to WW to eat right 4 your type, to lowfat, to the pills, to Nutrisystem. They all seem to work if you stick to them, but then that’s the hard part isn’t it… I like the concept of this as its simple and takes the guess work out. Some people have drug problems, some people have alcohol problems, others have eating problems. What makes kicking the bad habbits when it comes to eating is that you still have to eat where as other habbits you just don’t go near at all…at least this is how I feel about it. I like how Tim makes this so simple and repetitious! The hardest thing about dieting IMO is thinking about what you’re going to make as it triggers all the old thoughts of; “how about pizza, that’s easy and good”, or “maybe just a little cheese on these egg’s, and some sausage, and toast” and so forth. One thing that I really enjoyed about the Nutrisystem program is that it’s brainless… the worst thing, it’s tasteless…

    Curious if this is listed in his book? I’ve been thinking about buying his book, anyone read it?

    Anyhow, I’m going to be giving this a shot here in the next couple of days (have to prep the food sources so that I don’t cheat) i.e. refrigerator. Does anyone know if we can add in spices, salts, ketchups, etc? Also, are refried beans ok, or do I have to buy the whole pinto’s and mush them up? Can you prepare the meat with sauces, marinates, etc or do they have to be plain Jane?

    Thanks, Tim, looking forward to this plan and I’m glad that you provided something so simple and free!

    Reply

  • mj — October 16th, 2007, 4:32 pm

    Today is oct. 16 and I have been on this diet for 1 month as of today. I weighed this morning and
    I lost EXACTLY 20 pounds!!!! I could hardly believe that. I followed the plan to the exact but I did not do the cheat day. That’s just because I know myself. If I cheat to much, I get off track. I’m going to do this diet again after a short break! It was pretty easy most of the time!

    Reply

  • sam — October 16th, 2007, 5:28 pm

    hey, i know smoking is bad but will it affect the diet plan, just wondering. looking forward to try this plan out thnks:)

    Reply

  • Heather — October 17th, 2007, 4:38 pm

    Hi Tim,

    I just wanted to mention that you may want to cut out your soda intake. I have been trying so hard to reduce my diet soda habit. My Mom and my Dad, who are both health nuts, have shown me so much evidence on how bad soda is for you and how every time you drink one it does damage to cellular structure. That’s just one of the things soda does. Anyway, because you are so into fitness and a healthy life style I thought that I would run it by you.

    By the way, I read your book on the plane to and from my last great adventure and I was VERY IMPRESSED! Kudos for cutting through all the crap and helping people get down to what’s truly important. Our precious time here on this earth can never be replaced!

    Bye for now,

    Heather :)

    Reply

  • Ezra — October 18th, 2007, 2:49 pm

    wanted to know if punches, kicks, knees, and elbows, interfere with the muscular failure exercise plan. also do explosive single reps interfere with this exercise plan. the sports i play require explosion so i feel i need to train my muscles in this area as i am training to play football and to fight, not to lift more weight. please advise. also the web reference given clearly states that a diet doesnt need to be altered to realize gains, how much truth is there to that as it was written in the 1970s if im not mistaken. i thank anyone that responds in advance for their help and i wish you all well whatever walk of life you come from.

    Reply

  • Ezra — October 18th, 2007, 2:50 pm

    by the way i did read your book and i was wondering about medicinal marijuana. does it really increase production and storage of estrogen in the blood stream which leads to belly fat?

    Reply

  • Josh — October 19th, 2007, 6:39 pm

    Hey guys it’s Josh, (just recently posted on Monday)

    Just wanted to let you all know that as of today, I’m down 6.2lbs… I couldn’t beleive it. I started on Monday, and Friday morning (today) I’m down 6.2 lbs… I was snackin’ pretty hard before I started, so I’m guessing I had some fecal matter built up, maybe a bit of bloatation from gas or something? I just find it hard to beleive I lost that much in just 4 days. I’ll keep you guys updated on my progress but so far I’m following everything as above. (With the exception of oatmeal in the morning.

    Daily diet to date:
    Morning: 3 scrambled egg’s (2 yokes removed), pepper, dash of salt.
    Bowl of Oatmeal
    Cup of coffee (no creamer :O(, with splenda)

    The other two meals I stick to the plan, just beans, vegi’s, and a side of meat. I found that bison is realitively healthy (no additives, steroids, free range, low fat) and not too expensive. I can make 3 patties for $6.

    Working on a way to dice up the vegi’s though, beans are no problems.

    Water Water Water, one diet Dr. Pepper at night.

    Lots of Dill Pickles, are dill pickles ok?

    Excersize:

    One five mile walk on a trail with the dog.
    Same day did a workout with weights in the gym.
    Next day did a 5 mile ride on the bike in 45 mph winds (burrrrrr….)

    So far, 6.2 lbs in 4 days. I’ll keep yah posted to keep this going, it’s good to check in!

    If anyone has a good recipe for vegi’s and or how to cook chicken so it taste’s good, post up!

    L8
    ~Josh

    Reply

  • Josh — October 19th, 2007, 6:41 pm

    Hey guys it’s Josh, (just recently posted on Monday)

    Just wanted to let you all know that as of today, I’m down 6.2lbs… I couldn’t beleive it. I started on Monday, and Friday morning (today) I’m down 6.2 lbs… I was snackin’ pretty hard before I started, so I’m guessing I had some fecal matter built up, maybe a bit of bloatation from gas or something? I just find it hard to beleive I lost that much in just 4 days. I’ll keep you guys updated on my progress but so far I’m following everything as above. (With the exception of oatmeal in the morning.

    Daily diet to date:
    Morning: 3 scrambled egg’s (2 yokes removed), pepper, dash of salt.
    Bowl of Oatmeal
    Cup of coffee (no creamer :O(, with splenda)

    The other two meals I stick to the plan, just beans, vegi’s, and a side of meat. I found that bison is realitively healthy (no additives, steroids, free range, low fat) and not too expensive. I can make 3 patties for $6.

    Working on a way to dice up the vegi’s though, beans are no problems.

    Water Water Water, one diet Dr. Pepper at night.

    Lots of Dill Pickles, are dill pickles ok?

    Once in awhile, primarily when I want to cheat or after one of the work outs I make my pretend chocolate shake. It’s really good, consists of the following: 1 scoop of EAS protein powder, 1 cup of light silk soy milk, 1 frozen banana, and 3-4 frozen strawberries. (I buy them fresh, clean then freeze for shakes). It’s my cheater treat but still healthy.

    Excersize:

    One five mile walk on a trail with the dog.
    Same day did a workout with weights in the gym.
    Next day did a 5 mile ride on the bike in 45 mph winds (burrrrrr….)

    So far, 6.2 lbs in 4 days. I’ll keep yah posted to keep this going, it’s good to check in!

    If anyone has a good recipe for vegi’s and or how to cook chicken so it taste’s good, post up!

    L8
    ~Josh

    Reply

  • Shelly — October 21st, 2007, 9:05 am

    This diet looks great…I love the food choices; but what about fiber? Personally, I need a lot of fiber to keep me regular (even with diet and exercize). I drink plenty of water, but I have always ate fruit and bran to regulate me. If I can’t eat fruit and bran-cereal, than what will I do? What about calcium? I think that as a woman I need this. I eat yogurt every day. Are almonds okay? Also, will this diet provide me with all the daily vitamins I need?

    To sum it up:

    Fiber?
    Calcium?
    Live Active Cultures?
    Almonds?
    Other vitamins?

    Reply

  • Isabel — October 21st, 2007, 2:29 pm

    Hey All! I am motivated by all your posts and the results of your progress. I started this diet yesturday and I am surprised at how I’m not as hungry as I thought I’d be. Its 10:30 pm and usually I’d be ravenous at this time but I’m fine … I am slightly hungry, but nothing unbearable.

    Age: 23
    Starting weight: 130
    Target weight: 110

    wish me luck!!

    Reply

  • Hayden — October 21st, 2007, 3:54 pm

    Awesome post.

    To echo Rebecca (post 186) above:
    “I’m confused… the title says “without exercise,â€? but there’s a photo of a “post-workout pizza.â€?

    Are you allowed to eat the pizza after every workout? Cause I workout 3 days a week and I looooooove pizza.

    Reply

  • Danielle — October 21st, 2007, 9:23 pm

    So i need help! Please. i had my daughter about 3 yrs ago and ever since i have had excess fat on my stomach and legs. i would really like to get rid of it. I’m starting this diet tomarrow i think it sounds great! But Can someone recommend any excersies that does not need a gym.
    Could someone also tell me some good recipes they have used with this diet?

    Reply

  • NK — October 22nd, 2007, 8:32 am

    Hey guys,

    I’m a lady and really need to get started losing the weight. Thanks so much for all your posts. Today’s my first day. Wish me well and I’ll check in later this week.

    NK

    Reply

  • Gabriella Kortsch, Ph.D. — October 22nd, 2007, 10:10 am

    Shelley (post 332 above):

    For fiber have 1/2 or 3/4 tblsp of flax seed every morning (use the coffee grinder to grind the seeds into powder, only do enough for about 10 days at a time and store in a small air tight container). Just swallow them with water, and about 2 days after starting, you should see wonderful results. Always works!

    For your calcium, have fresh green vegetables every day. On precisely this topic, see today’s post in my blog on the side effects of dairy, with lots of links to more information.

    Good luck!

    Gabriella in Spain

    Reply

  • Isabel — October 22nd, 2007, 3:00 pm

    Hey,

    Day 2 on the diet and so far so good. I have a question that I’d appreciate anyones answers on…are sandwich meats okay on this diet? I mainly eat turkey slices for lunch with some low fat cheese. is that allowed?

    Thanks!

    Reply

  • Josh from most recent — October 22nd, 2007, 10:36 pm

    Hey guys,

    This is Josh checking back in… I think we are on our own when it comes to answers and what not so maybe the best way for us to stay motivated and informed is to assist each other with our own understanding of this and experience from this and past due. SO I’ll start with those who posted under me;

    Isabel: good luck, I also felt that once I detoxed the body (ate the diet for a couple of days) I was not as hungry as before!

    Hayden: I’m right there with yah but I highly doubt we can consume a pizza after working out everytime. Pizza is actually my “Saturday” splurge as it’s my favorite. I think if you put in a good 2 hours of cardio via cycling, hiking, or otherwise you could probably get away with a slice, but save the whole pie consumption for the saturday splurge.

    Danielle: Welcome, excersize is really quiet simple and you don’t need a gym unless you are really trying to tone up. Use a mentality of hitting major core groups of muscles such as; pushups, situps, self body weight squats, calf raises, and back up’s.(like situps but for the back if you lie on your stomach and arch, no hands) As for cardio just try walking around the neighborhood, local trails, etc. If you are city confined maybe just do jumping jacks. All of these will help you out without using a gym. You can get creative with your own excersize routine just make sure you’re posture is correct. As far as meals go I’m a big fan of this diet because as Tim mentioned, it’s simple and mindless. You can get creative with your meals but everytime I get creatively thinking, I get hungry… so I just try to keep it basic, simple, and fast. My personal favorites are 3 eggs with 2 yokes removed and scrambled with salt and pepper along with a side of my favorite beans and steamed vegi’s. For dinner I found a frozen package of pre-chopped vegi’s and meat with a healthy sauce from my local grocery store. I just crack open a can of beans and heat them up and bam, instant meal. I prefer to heat all my food on the stove though as the microwave supposively messes with the chemical make up of food when “waved”. I also think it tastes different. Just figure out what your favorite meat is that’s healthy and lean, your favorite vegi’s, and your favorite side of beans and you can pretty much make your own meals.

    NK: Welcome, it’s easy once you get going!

    Isabel (#337) I’d think that lunch meat would be ok…but the healthier the better (smoked turkey 98% fat free)would be my guess. Just watch the sodium intake unless you are doing lots of cardio. Not sure about the cheese, I’m just trying to stick to the vegi’s, beans, and meat as much as possible with the little amount of assistance (cheese, sauces, etc)

    Anyhow, hope to hear from more people and I think that again we are on our own with support, tips and advice so lets chat with each other and offer up assistance!

    God speed!
    Josh
    Week 2
    Down 7lbs

    Reply

  • JLA — October 22nd, 2007, 11:45 pm

    ok. so i am at week three. the first week i felt like i had shed some of that surface fluff and got really excited. i was working out [aerobic exercise focus on two other muscle groups-45 minutes] for the first week. my meals are identical to Tims. except absolutely no carbs. basically, egg whites and legumes for breakfast, chicken and veggies for lunch chicken and veggies for dinner with whatever legume [black beans or lentils.] i started adding in salsa to some meals. then i made the chicken/veggie meal into a salad. but week two and three with absolutely no exercise. and on saturdays i go crazy with the eating. but every other day i am completely devoted to the system with very few exceptions in regards to eating the same food combinations [for instance, eating a steak and asparagus when eating out one night.] if i drink at all it is red wine and not much of it. so, again, exactly Tim’s plan minus the post workout pizza. now, i thought since this diet was supposed to work without exercise, that i would still lose weight, and at this point i feel like i’m right back where i started from, physically. point being, i think being a female in her thirties with my metabolism the way it is and my genetics, the exercise is imperative. i deserted it only because of a new job and a new schedule, but i see now that it is necessary. the good news is, i see now how much crap i was putting in my body and how often i just threw food down my throat. i miss fruit pretty terribly, but the saturday free for all is awesome and makes every other day totally tolerable. and trying to spike the calories is actually harder than i thought it would be. maybe i’m impatient, but i really believed that 20 pounds in 30 days was possible. i am currently 150lbs, 5’7″ and naturally athletic in build, and maybe that is an unrealistic weight loss in that time. i think that there are a lot of women like me who saw this post and thought they finally found the answer and perhaps Tim could address the fact that women and men are different physically. and to echo what another poster said–a whole book could be written on this diet alone…
    so, i hope it really does happen. and i cant wait to take “after” pics that reflect real change. i’ll keep with it and hopefully those of you that just started make sure to exercise!

    Reply

  • chelsea — October 23rd, 2007, 3:54 pm

    Hey! i am 17 and i hate the way that i look…everyone tells me i am “beautiful” but i dont see it. and i dont know if they are just telling me that or what but i really want to loose about 15-20lbs…and i want to do it fast…tell me everything you ate and everything u did so i can do it to.
    chelsea

    Reply

  • Victor Patterson — October 23rd, 2007, 5:38 pm

    Tim. I love your book (4 hour workweek) and the direction it is taking me.
    I am following many of your principles from a fitness point as well as the financial freedom end.
    By Christmas of 2008 I hope to publish my results and path that I used to attain my goals.
    Looking forward to meeting you one day so we can compare notes.
    Regards, Victor

    Reply

  • NK — October 23rd, 2007, 6:29 pm

    Thanks Josh! You rock!!!

    Reply

  • Dana — October 23rd, 2007, 8:33 pm

    Hey everyone! I haven’t posted in quite a while, but i’ve been on the diet a little over a month and have had great results…I tend to obsess over numbers on the scale so I haven’t actually weighed in, but the way I feel and look has definitely improved…but i’m to the point where I need a little support…I cheated for the first time today…YIKES! So let’s keep the posts going…good luck everyone…it seems like the going is good!

    Reply

  • Josh — October 23rd, 2007, 8:49 pm

    Hey it’s Josh:

    JLA, good post, stay with it and let us know the progress.

    Chealsea: I’m not a female but I do know how hard it is to like yourself if you aren’t “cover girl” material. I’m a mail but had 2 sisters and a mom who were very particular about their bodies growing up. This in fact is probably why I have an eating disorder on the opposite spectrum along with a few other reasons. Hang in their girl, if people tell you that you’re beautiful then know that you are regardless of your weight or how you size up to the girl next to you. We are all different and IMO this is what makes us so great. Just follow Tim’s advice above (given it’s ok for you by your doctor) and you will see results. It’s basically a glucose regulating diet (eating plan, I hate the word diet) to help your hormonal levels and sugars stay regulated. I’m not a specialist but it seems that this way of eating does help shed the excess. I’m right there with you in wanting the “abs of the year award” today but these transformations take time so just take it day by day staying on que and try to focus on more important issues like praying for the people in San Diego at the present time! Give it a shot and keep us posted, this forum board really helps if we are all here for each other! Shoot, if we do enough posts maybe Tim will open up a real forum board for us ;o) hint hint :O)

    NK; Thanks but I’m just an everyday dude battling the bulge like the rest of us!

    Hey Dana: I cheated today… I got word that I owed $1800 for registration and tax on my new jeep… as always, when that brown ick hits the fan, I turn to comforting tools… so I had some pizza. I started to get depressed thinking I fell off the band wagon but really, it’s just one day out of the last 9 that I’ve been doing so well on. That’s an 11% failure rate, or a 89% on a test score. Tomorrow’s another day so just swing the leg back up over the saddle and get back at it again. I know I will!

    Talk with ya’ll tomorrow.
    ~J

    Reply

  • Dana — October 23rd, 2007, 9:08 pm

    Thanks so much for that…you’re right…tomorrow is a new day! :-D

    J looks like you are the new forum leader ;)

    Reply

  • Isabel — October 24th, 2007, 1:29 am

    Hey thanks for the response Josh!! It is much appreciated. Yeah i do go for the low fat smoked turkey and as for the cheese, ive been doing low fat on that too. In one of Tim’s posts he mentioned cheese was okay on this diet. In any case, it definitly not something i eat everyday. I am on day 4 and it’s been going great. Yesturday alone I lose a pound! Since i started I’ve been down about 2.5-3lbs which I am really excited about. I feel most of what im losing now is water weight because I’ve significantly upped my water intake and I feel the effects (notely by running to the bathroom every two seconds).

    Best of luck to everyone!

    Start of Day 4

    Starting weight: 130
    Current weight: 127.2
    Target weight: 110

    Reply

  • Dana — October 24th, 2007, 12:05 pm

    Good news…Great morning…sick workout…good breakfast…back on track! YAY…I was seriously worried for a minute there! Keep up the good work ya’ll!!!

    Reply

  • How to Lose 20lbs Fat in 30 Days | StrongLifts.com — October 25th, 2007, 10:01 am

    [...] found this on Timothy Ferris‘ blog: How to Lose 20lbs of Fat in 30 days. I was familiar with this method. I’ve been [...]

  • NK — October 25th, 2007, 10:36 am

    I’m on day 4 and I have lost 5 lbs!!! I’m so excited. It’s a really good thing that I’ve lost that much weight this soon, b/c I was about to “change it a bit” b/c it is so hard. I’m living for Saturday.

    Josh-

    Thanks for the encouraging words!

    Reply

  • SmarterFitter Blog » Blog Archive » Exercise and weight loss not linked...? — October 28th, 2007, 10:08 am

    [...] and jam with breakfast then. And more poached eggs? So, not all calories are created equal and eating slow carbs matters [not recommending that diet, just think it is an interesting thought [...]

  • Jessie — October 28th, 2007, 9:32 pm

    Jessie…

    Definitely, the most sensible thing i have seen in a long time….

  • A Really Long Post About Nutrition « Ryan Irvine — October 28th, 2007, 9:41 pm

    [...] my energy levels up but to acquire some lean mass.  To do this, I was going to loosely follow the slow-carb diet described by author and inspiration Timothy Ferris, which argues that you can reduce body-fat by “optimizing any of three factors: exercise, [...]

  • Lacey — October 29th, 2007, 10:41 am

    wouldnt it be bad for you not to eat all food groups? and i thought milk was good for you?

    otherwise im definetly trying this, Thanks!

    Reply

  • Chriss — October 29th, 2007, 10:49 am

    Just read the 20 pounds loss in 30 days. And yes it is possible. 1O years ago I lost a record stunning 55 pounds in about 45 days. Many of the same Rules listed were the same Rules I followed too: With on exception, I replaced meat (aka chicken & beef) with a soy substitute–garden burgers.( I would also worry about any hormones in the eggs whites–beans are a good substitute here.

    I love the reminder “not to drink our calories”. Over the years, I have slipped back into the sugar and cream in the morning coffee habit, and yes the pounds sneaked back on.

    I believe, that when a person is severely over weight,( a 200 pound woman who is suppose to weigh 100 pounds) tries to EXERCISE and go on a DIET. T

    Reply

  • Chriss — October 29th, 2007, 10:50 am

    Thank you for your column on 20 pounds in 30 days. 10 years ago, I lost 55 pounds in 45 days. Most of the Rules you list, were the same things I did as well.

    Reply

  • It's Josh — October 29th, 2007, 2:31 pm

    Hey guys,

    So how’s the progress coming along? Last Thursday I was doing great(part of week 2), got invited to go build a mountain bike trail and really over did it on the energy I was putting out there. So, a little thought creaped into my mind saying; “you’ve done so great so far and have lost 8 lbs in a week and a half, you worked really hard today so you would probably be ok to get some good food”. So I ended up splurging, then Friday came and I didn’t feel like the usual so I ate crap again, then saturday, then sunday… Needless to say I screwed up and gained around 3-4lbs back. What I learned from this dissappointment is that first and foremost we should make sure that when we do fall off the bandwagon that we get back up on it. Secondly, I’ve learned that once I do reach my goal weight that I really need to find a comfortable eating pattern that doesn’t go over my daily caloric need. With all diets I’ve done, I’ve always gained back my weight. I think the problem is not the diet but rather the fact that the reason we are overweight in the first place is that we consume too much on a daily basis. I love my pizza’s, chocolate ice cream with resees cups, buffallo chicken sandwich’s, etc. But I think Tim is on to something here by selecting a day to enjoy that crap and then eating sensibly the rest of the week. Key for me to learn on this is to incorporate a regular 2k cal diet for the week that is enjoyable (once I get to my goal weight on this diet) and to still use Tim’s concept of selecting a day to enjoy the goods. That way we don’t get carried away and do all this pain and suffering to loose weight in vein.

    Well, back to the bandwagon for me, hope you all are doing good!

    Josh

    Reply

  • David — October 30th, 2007, 2:28 pm

    What about oatmeal?

    Reply

  • Josh — October 30th, 2007, 6:03 pm

    David,

    Although he doesn’t reccomend it except after a workout to refuel the carb loss, I’ve been eating my standard bowl of oatmeal in the morning with my 3 egg whites and 1 yoke scrambled. I’m sure I’d loose more at a quicker rate if I didn’t but the thought of eating vegi’s and beans first thing in the morning wants to make me gag (sp?). If you compare the carbs to the carbs in a serving of beans they are about the same. Oatmeal seems like a fine thing to consume in small quantities (bowl a day) but the point is to get rid of the simple carbs as much as possible.

    What i found that works best for me is to take a diet such as this and “try” to follow it as best as possible making educated guesses based upon the “concept”. If you really need something that is close to the concept to get through your days like a touch of cream in the coffee in the morning I don’t think it’s going to make a huge difference. I steer clear of the cheese that he says is ok to eat but offset it with the 2 tablespoons of cream I enjoy in my coffee. I also eat the healthiest and most loaded protein oatmeal I can find vs. the beans in the morning. THe rest of the day I seem to manage ok (lots of wants but able to hold out) as I just focus on the saturday free for all (within reason).

    My rational is that a touch of cream in my coffee and a bowl of kashi oatmeal in the morning isn’t going to blow my diet, the change is night and day compared to what I was consuming before so I allow a lil bit of room to make it possible to follow. I was on a fast food diet before so I probably went from 1-2k calories per meal down to around 300-500. I still follow this as close as possible but I don’t think the oatmeal will kill the diet. Just my $.02 though, take it for what it’s worth.

    Reply

  • Josh — October 30th, 2007, 6:19 pm

    Hey guys,

    Not sure how many of you are sticking too it or following my posts but I found a recipe that I wanted to share. Now that the winter months are creaping up on us the weather has been getting a bit chilly here in Denver. I’ve been trying to figure out ways to make this diet tolerable with different meal plans and such and then it hit me…CHILI! I don’t think it’s been mentioned yet but homemade chili I think is going to be my lifesaver for quick meals that I can make ahead of time. If you think about it, it consists of everything we need in a meal; protein, vegi’s, and beans. Last night I got brave (as I don’t cook that often) and made my own chili, it turned out pretty good.

    Recipe I used:
    2 packets of Mccormicks chili seasoning
    1.5 lbs of lean ground beef
    1 whole onion
    1 can of corn
    2 cans of beans; one black, one pinto
    2 cans of chopped tomatoes with chili’s
    2 cans of tomato paste.

    Brown the meat, then put all the contents into a big cooking pot and bring to a boil. Let simmer and stir occassionaly and bam…chili. I’m sure most of you know a good recipe for chili and if you do, feel free to share. I wish I could of had some frito’s, cheddar cheese, and some corn bread but it turned out to be pretty dang good and I know have at least a weeks worth for lunch.

    L8r
    Josh

    Reply

  • 4HWW Mum — October 30th, 2007, 9:16 pm

    OMG Tim!
    Having started my new 4HWW life, I was going to launch a diet/fitness side to my online business!
    Uuuum maybe not! I would need 50 virtual staff to keep up with all the questions!!

    Guys, if you don’t like beans, and can not sacrifice bread (ANY kind of bread), and can not restrict yourself to the guidlines of this diet….. then Don’t Do It. There are millions of other diets which may be more fitting. Trying to ‘change’ the principles of the diet is what is making you fail at weight loss. Do it by the letter, or try a different diet altogether.

    Tim – you must have a headache!

    Congrats to those that followed the diet and had success, and my respect to your patience replying to all these (mostly pointless) questions!

    Reply

  • NK — October 31st, 2007, 8:02 am

    Hi guys,

    I also fell off the wagon for a few days and gained 3 lbs, but I’m back on again. Thanks for all the posts most of them are really encouraging.

    NK

    Reply

  • Josh — November 1st, 2007, 5:02 pm

    Hey guys,

    So curious if anyone has hit a slow point in progress? First week I dropped 7lbs, second week I got off track and gained 3 back, now this week I’m slowly loosing half pounds at a time. I’m noticing eye sight changes of my body but the scale isn’t reflecting the changes I’m seeing. Just curious if there are any long time dieters of this plan and what their experience was?

    As for the 4HWW Mum above, keep the negative comments to yourself, we don’t need your negativity, thanks.

    Reply

  • Ezra — November 1st, 2007, 5:31 pm

    Not for nothing but i agree with mum, i have this discussion with people all the time. when you execute a successful diet plan (i have no problem losing or gaining when i follow either type of diet) you follow it to a T. Why? Because a “diet” as people understand it is a quick way to lose weight right? wrong! the reason people diet is for long term results (i hope). That means a life style change. Not a half a lyfstyle change. why? because you are attempting to change your body chemistry. how long have you been ruining your body chemistry with artificial sweeteners??? and saturated fats??? and the dreaded carbs???? oh and by the way for your info skinny doesnt necessarily mean healthy so keep in mind what your goals are. if you are 5’9 225 and you can run a marathon then genetics may be hindering your process, but if you are under or close to the desirable % of body fat you want then what do you care about being skinny??? for the look??? please!!!! diet to be healthy not to be skinny. i just watched a news program about how the lower your body fat % is the less at risk you are for cancer. people with high body fat % are more likely to get cancer than smokers. i dont know if thats true, but if it is then i know i want to be lean and healthy. sorry if i offended anyone but why waste your time and effort to inevitabley gain the weight back because you have screwed your body up so much that it just reverts back to what it used to do before you were on the diet when you fall off the “band wagon”. A lifestyle change doesnt involve a bandwagon to fall off of. Notice Tim’s general premise for life, dont work more work smart. so if you did every meal exactly correct and completely tortured yourself (high intensity dieting) dont you think your results would be drastically better in a shorter amount of time meaning that the torture wouldnt last as long, instead of mildly torturing yourself to never see real results? just some questions. i appreciate all of your comments too. it is motivational and inspirational to find people who want to be healthy, but what r u willing to do to be healthy?

    Reply

  • Victor Patterson — November 1st, 2007, 6:47 pm

    20 pounds of fat in 30 days. Wow!! Can it be done? Yes. Should it be done? Well maybe for some people, maybe not for some people.
    The truly best way to lose 20 pounds, or 10 pounds or 100 pounds is patiently. Most diet that promise you will lose x pounds in x days may work but keeping the pounds off is the key.
    Not to knock any of Tim’s strategies on weight loss. Actually they do make a lot of sense. His thoughts on NR is even more exciting and I am following many of his teachings.
    The main key is to have a realistic goal and keep it in your sights. And keep moving there.
    As far as dieting, you have to listen to your body, and follow what your body in saying. Strictly follow!! I for one am a little lactic intolerant. I love Clam Chowder soup. I can’t really eat New England Clam Chowder. Whoa! Don’t do it. It takes some discipline. But I have my eye on the goal.

    I plan to keep it off.

    http://365daytohealthandsuccess.blogspot.com/

    Reply

  • k. — November 2nd, 2007, 7:38 pm

    I’ve been on this diet for 1.5 days and have lost about 5 pounds already. Whether it’s water weight or fat loss, I don’t care — it’s off to a great start so far. Thanks for sharing.

    Reply

  • John — November 3rd, 2007, 11:59 am

    Hello,

    I am a 26 yrs male, 6’1 240lbs. I am mostly fat but i am on my way to changing that, but I think i need some help. Also i was just diagnosed with high blood pressure. Is this diet good for people with high blood pressure? Is there a site that has the size of the portions or recipes? Is it also ok to supplement in a protein shake instead of chicken or just eat pork or beef again? I am Canadian and for some reason chicken is about $12 for 5 breast.

    Thanks,

    John.

    Reply

    • Pam — July 13th, 2012, 7:07 am

      Hi John,

      I think Tim has had an incredible success on his site here and the advice he has given to people who pass it on to other people speaksfor itself. You mentioned however, your problem with high blood pressure. My sister also had a similar and found another way to help her was through Yoga and Meditation. I have a site I put together to assist people with their weight loss problems with the help of Yoga. You might be surprised. Check out my website above and let me know what you think John.
      From Pam.

      Practicing yoga brings the perfect out of all of us, teaching us to meditate and at the same time, helps relieve that awful stress. Along with helping to relieve stress, yoga strengthens our limbs, mind, refreshes us and even helps us lose weight. Our energy level will increase because we feel better.
      When starting to practice Yoga take it slow and easy. Don’t force your body into the different postures all at once. If you do more than your body says it can do, you could hurt yourself. Like any exercise program, you need to go slow and stick with it. You might not notice a difference right away but hang in there and it will come in time.

      I know that this a great site that Tim

      Reply

  • Alexis — November 3rd, 2007, 8:01 pm

    All in all like your advice however I heard That drinking one can of soda a day even if diet can make you gain weight like crazy! Like 15 lbs. or something.

    Reply

  • Jon — November 4th, 2007, 1:32 pm

    Tim,

    While it possible to lose 20 pounds in 30 days, it’s not really ideal. Countless animal studies show that sudden onset calorie restriction decreases lifespan, while gradual onset increases lifespan.

    The diet itself is a good one, but I would only recommend such a drastic calorie cut for athletes trying to make weight. 20 pounds in 30 days is only practical if you are starting with a BMI of about 35. If you are already close to normal and trying to lean up, it’s too fast.

    Reply

  • Victor — November 4th, 2007, 6:24 pm

    Tim, thanks for the last comment. A slow step by step program is best for most people.

    A few simple rules. Small portions!!! No, or little breads/pastas that are white. Slowly build up your aerobic levels. Walk, then walk some more, then walk fast, then maybe run…swimming is great. Treadmills, and stationary bikes are great.
    But most of all SMALL PORTIONS…don’t have seconds!!

    Reply

  • Raina Gustafson — November 4th, 2007, 7:11 pm

    John,

    It goes without saying that you’ll want to be under the care of a qualified herbalist, nutritionist, doctor or naturopath… But so you’re aware, you have a ton of options for dealing with high blood pressure. The use of common foods/herbs like cayenne, garlic, hawthorne and many more can be incredibly successful, inexpensive ways of supporting normal blood pressure with few or no side effects. Also, calming activities like yoga and walking can help. I’m sure there are experts in your geographic area who can further advise you on a personal basis.

    Alexis,

    I agree that chemically-manufactured artificial sweeteners are evil, and I stay away from them. Though some of the condemning literature may smack of paranoia, it’s just not worth the risk to me when there are wonderful alternatives like the herb Stevia rebaudiana, which helps support the pancreas while offering a sweet taste with few or no calories. If you’re not familiar with it, stevia is most often available as a white powder or clear liquid. I use the Wild Oats brand, as I think it is a good value. It is very potent – 2-4 drops in a beverage is sufficient. A quick search on Google should deliver documentation of its long-term safe use in Brazil and Japan. Even for someone who believes that artificial sweeteners are innocuous, why put something merely neutral in your body when something beneficial can be used in its stead?

    Reply

  • Renzo — November 5th, 2007, 9:32 am

    K. – u lost 5 pounds in 1 day? huh?

    Reply

  • Eric — November 5th, 2007, 10:22 am

    Hi Tim,

    If you’re working on a book or more blog posts about the four hour work out week, I’d love to see time-effective aerobic workouts approaches. I’ve recently seen research that interval training is more effective at fat-burning than a steady workout time-wise. I feel like spending an hour on a Stairmaster is for the birds and would love to see if your data-driven approach can provide better leverage. By the way, I took most of the work-out tips you gave, and am now spending about an hour and 15 minutes a week lifting to get the better results than I was seeing using 5 hours, broken out by muscle groups and with 3 sets.

    Thanks,

    Eric

    Reply

  • Dr Jonny Gleed — November 5th, 2007, 2:03 pm

    Be careful about the quantities of diet soft drinks you consume. They are very stressful to the body, by providing very little that is useful and a whole lot of ‘stuff’ that is harmful, which the body has to work hard to eliminate.

    Water, green tea and a drop of red now and again are my main liquid intakes.

    Reply

  • Nadia — November 6th, 2007, 12:58 pm

    Hey,

    Just have to say that this is a wonderful plan! I had ortho surgery this summer, which means I had my mouth wired shut for 6 weeks. I lost a little over 15 pounds in the process. Score, right? As soon as I started eating again, I gained 5 pounds and my belly started looking huge… found your plan and decided to try it out. Within a week I lost the 5 pounds once again and could see my abs! It really is amazing how fast the carbs get into the belly.

    While I don’t follow this diet strictly anymore, it definitely gives me a different perspective on feeling “full.” So now when I eat the good stuff (I love carbs ^_^) I can have less, but still reap the benefits and feel totally satisfied. Thanks for your advice!

    Reply

  • Sarah — November 7th, 2007, 10:20 am

    So what about fish? I know the fatty acid’s from fish can seriously aid weight loss, flax oil, salmon, tuna, etc. Would you recomend this as healthy and low carb as say chicken breast or turkey?

    Reply

  • Learn a language in an hour? Lose 20lbs of fat in a month? — November 7th, 2007, 1:32 pm

    [...] also like How to lose 20lbs of fat in 30 days.  I am going to try out both ideas.  I also ordered his book so I’m looking forward to [...]

  • AlanTek » Blog Archive » 4 Hour Work Week — November 8th, 2007, 12:26 pm

    [...] How to Lose 20 lbs. of Fat in 30 Days… Without Doing Any Exercise [...]

  • Core — November 8th, 2007, 2:59 pm

    I’m a male, 22, 5’7″, 145 pounds, athletic. I began this regimen around 155

    I was on this regimen for about 2 weeks. Although the 2 weeks was diifficult. I lost 10 pounds of fat, while beginning to sculpt a six pack. As an athletic person from surfing here in Hawaii, I’m in pretty good all around shape, except I still had a beer gut. In around 2 weeks, my friends noticed I had lost weight and noticed my arms, shoulders, chest, and abs were getting leaner, yet more muscular. I’m no longer following the regimen so strictly. As a matter of fact I haven’t followed it at all in the last 2 weeks. As a college student, it’s difficult to be so dedicated to such hardcore eating habits. Now, for the last 2 weeks, I’ve eaten whatever I wanted, drank beer excessively, and eaten pizza and pasta like crazy. Perhaps the most amazing part of all of this, is in the last 2 weeks, after eating so poorly, I haven’t gained any weight. As long as i continue working out, my muscles suck it up and burn it off. There is hope. I know each and every one of you can do this. I was the last person I thought would ever diet. I know, I didn’t need to lose much weight, I merely wanted to provide more positive feedback and support to those of you who are struggling. Stick with it. I’ve never been so confident and felt so motivated to do more. I’m starting the diet again, wish me luck!

    Reply

  • geo — November 9th, 2007, 12:03 am

    I lost 5 to 8 lbs a week in a similiar way and felt extremely good eating the following:

    1. breakfast a very small amount of fiber one cereal (which is almost all fiber no carbs) and skim milk mixed with ice water (tastes like milk but less calories). and sweet n low (no saccharin doesn’t cause cancer – research it.)
    2. lunch a can of tuna with a little oil or seasoning .
    another can of the the same. the first day or two while my stomach was big i mixed it with a some salad greens for bulk and taste.
    3. dinner was a bunch of mixed frozen veggies boiled and eaten with soy sauce or spray i can’t believe its not butter. i drank the water too for the vitamins and to stay hydrated. i also sometimes had boiled frozen chicken breasts with some mustard or spices or lemon pepper etc.
    and spray fake butter.

    by the second day your stomach shrinks and you aren’t hungry but if you get hungry air popped popcorn with spray fake butter is great.

    Eat tons of salt to ensure you stay hydrated with the diet sodas (never avoid salt – it only makes you dehydrated and hurts your body and you aren’t losing weight you are simply shedding water which your metabolism needs to process what you eat and stay healthy)

    Eat a daily regular consumer vitamin, and lots of diet cherry pepsi which seems so sweet after a few days that it seems like desert. I carried a 1 liter bottle left in my car and drank it driving down the road or anytime I was hungry. (never leave yourself without what you need for your diet because if you are forced to eat bad food or a sugary drink your body will suddenly be starved for more bad food.)

    avoid any sugar because it triggers appetite like crazy. the pink sweet n low packages stay with you at all times.
    asparatame doesn’t work and is bad for your brain based on what i have seen so use sweet n low. (aspartame was first not approved for the public by the fda until aspartame company head donald rumsfeld (yes the same one) called Reagan in the 1980′s and got him to add another fda review board members who voted the extra vote to get aspartame released to the public for GD Searle company – look that up if you don’t believe it!)

    The water with a lemon slice they serve at restaurants is a great diet drink with 1 4 a sweet n low in it.
    You get very energetic very quickly for some reason and your mind gets clear like on a fast.
    you can get forgetful because your blood sugar stays low so your brain gets forgetful. write down your PIN numbers before doing this!

    by the end of the first week you feel so good and you have dropped so much weight you absolutely can stick with it until you drop as much as you want.
    Avoid people who want you to eat with them.
    stay out of restaurants.
    this diet works because you can fix this stuff anywhere. take some cans of water tuna in your car with a cheap can opener and a fork. if you get hungry eat one.
    I went for over 200 to 165 in a few weeks. i think it was about 4 weeks or less. It was amazing.

    I actually kept dropping for a while even when I started eating again at about 170 but honestly i didn’t want to get off the diet because it was so functional and easy to do.

    i felt ten years younger and realized EVERYTHING i thought was old age pains was actually weight related. I proved conclusively that anyone can lose weight. the excuses are myths. if you eat less than 100 calories and eat healthily you will lose weight and fast and feel good.

    one thing people forget is when you have dropped 10lbs in 2 weeks you have the muscles of a heavy person and so you feel very strong and light.

    vivzizi.com
    the fizz of life

    Reply

  • geo — November 9th, 2007, 12:08 am

    obviously i meant if you eat less than 1000 calories a day – not 100! that was a typo.
    I often ate about 600 calories a day with the above diet but everything was healthy and i got all the vitamins and veggies and water and salts I needed to stay healthy which I think was the key.
    you will be amazed how much better looking EVERYONE looks when they are their proper thin weight. half the plastic surgery for jawlines and nose jobs and lipo wouldn’t be needed if people simply did this diet for 3 to 4 weeks.
    NO ONE is big boned and everyone will lose weight doing this and probably be eating healthier pure proteins and veggies than their current diets.

    Reply

  • JLA — November 9th, 2007, 12:43 am

    Hello all

    just checking in..thanks again to Josh for all the encouragement and thanks to Raina for the heads up on Stevia, cant wait to check it out!
    so, i fell off the wagon my fourth week in [i think due to no further results] but hopped right back on this week and feel better. its amazing how quickly the body reacts to digestive change. i had headaches again and some heartburn at the weirdest things [mixed veggies??]

    one thing i am allowing myself is splenda till i get the stevia and almond or soy milk in my coffee, although i am trying to ween off and enjoy it black. and i like the discipline. i like having to say no to things and being strong about it. and i hear what people are saying about diet soda..i love it, but have cut it completely. now if i can eliminate the other artificial sweetener, i’ll be golden

    i want to make a pumpkin stew now and cant even think about how to do it deliciously without something sweet or something fatty [cream, butter] any ideas?

    glad we’re all here for each other! who won the date with Tim, anyone know? hope it was you, Raina! wish it were me!

    Reply

  • Keith — November 9th, 2007, 1:29 pm

    Hey Tim,

    Does the Pizza have cheese? And do you have it on wheat crust?

    Reply

  • Nervige Gruppenmitglieder und gute schlechte Referate « Richard Kolodziej — November 9th, 2007, 9:13 pm

    [...] How to Lose 20 lbs. of Fat in 30 Days… Without Doing Any Exercise – Ähnliches hat er mit einem Ernährungsplan gemacht, durch den er 9,07 kg Fett in 30 Tagen verlor. [...]

  • amber — November 9th, 2007, 11:36 pm

    omg. i have been looking for a good diet and i think this may be the one. thank you.

    ps
    why do you have a pizza with white carbs if your not allowed it. or is that for your “cheat” day. lol.

    Reply

  • killian — November 10th, 2007, 2:08 am

    you idea has many similarities to the common diet here in s. korea.

    Reply

  • MEG — November 10th, 2007, 6:57 am

    Hi i have been reading everyone’s post and have a few questions that maybe someone can help me with. I am coming off 3 weeks of the south beach diet phase one and i think this one sounds better. What i want to do is start this one in 2 weeks after thanksgiving because it is hard to do diets around holidays. Then I want to take about three weeks off because of xmas and i have training in another state for my job for two weeks. Then I would like to start this diet again. Meanwhile in between breaks I will maintain healthy eating just not the way it is set up here. Is this a good idea and does any one think it is possible to lose weight both times??

    Thanks

    Reply

  • MEG — November 10th, 2007, 10:05 am

    Been reading everybody’s post. I have been on the south beach diet phase 1 for three weeks. i would rather do this plan but decided to take some time off from dieting until after thanksgiving. I will do it for a month, then take 3 weeks off for xmas and my trip that i have to take for work. Then i plan on doing this for another month. i will eat healthy in the meantime. is this ok and does anybody think i will be able to lose weight both times???

    thanks

    Reply

  • mike — November 10th, 2007, 8:09 pm

    Dude, this is not only bad advice, but it’s also dangerous. The ketogenic diet is a great way to treat epilepsy if someone is allergic to anticonvusants, but that’s the way it should be used. A simple wiki-search reveals all possible adverse side effects — including, but not limited to, diarhea, kidney stones, constipation, dehydration, bone-thinning, and pancreatitis. Worst of all, if you manage to stay on the diet for a month and then go off of it, you’ll gain all the weight back.

    Shame on you. For some things in life, there are no shortcuts. Eat right, lift weights, stretch, and run. HTH

    Reply

  • mike — November 10th, 2007, 8:14 pm

    Someone censors their comments, huh? NYT will hear about this.

    Reply

  • jeff — November 11th, 2007, 9:00 pm

    Hi, can you compare/contrast your diet to the Zone diet ? You reference Atkins but I dont see anything about Zone diet.

    I’ve been on Zone for about a year and lost 35 lbs but looking to lose more. Good points about fruit and fructose….didnt know that.

    what about fish and Omega 3′s ? thumbs up or down ?

    Reply

  • Raina Gustafson — November 12th, 2007, 12:10 am

    Hi Geo,

    I enjoyed your post! There was also a lot of legal nonsense when stevia was brought in to the US – for a while it had to be sold as a topical skin care agent (it does have beneficial effects for the skin) – I think it changed only after the patent on aspartame expired.

    I am happy you have had such success. I’d be even happier for you if you were doing it without hydrogenated fats (which are in the imitation butter products you mentioned and about a million other processed foods). I’d also recommend you look into juice fasting – for instance celery juice contains lots of organic sodium along with other beneficial compounds – and you’d probably feel even better than you did while using the diet soda.

    Further, you might be interested in a book called “Excitotoxins” by Russell Blayloc. I haven’t read it, but I know that it’s about chemicals commonly used in processed foods that easily penetrate the blood-brain barrier causing brain cells to get so excited they basically explode and die.

    If that sounds like too much of a downer, “The Food Revolution” by John Robbins is awesome.

    Hi JLA,

    Glad you enjoyed the information on stevia. I forgot to mention that it is heat-stable, which means you can bake with it. Also, cinnamon naturally promotes blood sugar balance, and cardamom reputedly helps mitigate the toxic effects of caffeine. It’s common to put cardamom in tea and coffee in Indian and Persian traditions for this reason.

    Did you know you can easily make your own almond milk? Soak almonds overnight in water. In the morning, rinse them off, and then add 3-4 parts water (measuring by parts is called the “simplers” method in herbology – so if you have 1 cup or handful or whatever almonds, add 3-4 cups or handfuls or whatever of water). Then, just blend. You’ll get better results with a high-powered blender, but you can strain it and then it doesn’t really matter. You can flavor it (I like adding a date or two to the mix – carob would provide B vitamins), and it tastes great. It is used as a sexual rejuvenative in Ayurveda (an after-sex drink to restore energy). Better than a cigarette, yes?

    I could go on and on with various things… so, I suppose I need to get around to having my own blog. I’ll post a link here when I do.

    To sum up, though, I guess I have three basic rules of thumb:
    1. I refuse to view my own body as the “enemy”. I believe that my body has its own intelligance and set of priorities, and that it’s doing the best it can with the materials I am providing.
    2. Providing my body with good materials should be a sensual, pleasurable experience as often as possible. Healthy food can be extraordinarily decadent at the same time. Though we’d never know it from a trip to the local grocer, we could eat a different fruit every day for the rest of our lives. Nature delivers abundantly.
    3. Be pragmatic. Pay attention to how my body feels in response to changes in diet and other stimuli. Learn to trust an innate sense of what is good, and how much is good for me. I don’t weigh myself, and I don’t believe that calories are worth counting. I feel that unless I have a specific reason to pay attention to these things, they are unhelpfully abstract and obscure more important issues.

    I have been following these principles for 6 years with good results. I have a healthier body image, and a healthier body, without unnecessary rigidity or negative psychological impact.

    JLA – P.S. I missed my chance to see Tim this weekend. Things just didn’t fall into place quite right. But, if he’s interested I’m sure he’ll make it happen.

    Reply

  • Brett — November 12th, 2007, 1:03 am

    I am starting my fourth week on this. A co-worker and I committed to doing this together and share results. He’s dropped twelve pounds and I’ve dropped 16. I had been working with a trainer for several months, but my belly, despite trying everything, wasn’t getting any smaller. For the first time in several years, I am on the verge of seeing my ab muscles. I am psyched!

    Just shy of three weeks ago, my doctor had diagnosed me with hypoglycemia, which had temporarily manifested itself due to illness and the related, very potent antibiotic. I had mentioned that I had just started this diet three days before my office visit. She took a look at the diet and said that it was an excellent way to eliminate the hypoglycemia, and just a healthy way of eating regardless of my intentions. She was right on the money.

    I used to feel groggy after eating and almost always had something sweet to finish off a meal. On this diet, I have a ton of energy and find that I am able to multi-task much better than I was before the diet (especially at work). And although I looked forward to stuffing my face on “eat whatever you want day” the first two weeks, the grogginess that came with it led me to tone it down in week 3. Either way, I am very pleased with the results.

    Since I’m in the wine business, a glass of wine is always nearby. I really enjoy having one glass with dinner. One recommendation regarding wine consumption. Avoid German or American Riesling, Champagne and, even if you’re not on this diet, White Zinfandel. All of these will, or tend to contain residual sugar. Definitely lean toward red or dry whites.

    Reply

  • Josh — November 12th, 2007, 1:24 am

    Geo,

    You lost 35lbs in 4 weeks? Damn, that would be epic!

    How’s everyone doing on this so far?

    Reply

  • Char — November 12th, 2007, 2:57 pm

    People! Wake up! Tim is not a Nutritionist. Stop asking him such ridiculous questions.
    Also, read what 4HWW Mum has to say.

    No wonder you dropped off a long time ago Tim.

    Reply

  • William — November 12th, 2007, 7:37 pm

    I have been on this diet now for about 2 weeks and have already lost 10 lbs. I will continue this until i lose another ten. I prepared 2 dishes that i keep repeat eating and they are very tasty.

    the first has lintels, ground turkey, stir fry combo of carrots, bell peppers, broccoli, and a little lawrys seasoning for flavor. I portion it out to about half a cup which is aprox 250-320 calories per meal.

    The second dish is for after i workout and is very much a treat for my post workout meal. It has a combo of lintels, ground turkey, potato medley mixture with awesome flavoring from trader Joes. I do about 1 cup of this after working out and also a few times during the week if I feel a little low on energy.

    Every other day I will treat myself to a tall nonfat vanilla latte which i was overdosing on daily pre-diet with ventes and grandes like twice a day.

    I cheated this weekend on Saturday but still i only was able to finish half my entree and appetizer and only had 1 beer.

    Thanks for the direction Tim

    -Will

    Reply

  • SHELLY — November 12th, 2007, 9:15 pm

    DOES THIS DIET ONLY WORK FOR MEN,I REALLY CANT SEE IT WORKING FOR FEMALES,

    Reply

  • Nadia — November 13th, 2007, 1:36 am

    Shelly, it definitely works for females. I noticed a difference in a few days.

    Just wanted to pop in for some meal suggestions. Stir-fry has been a mainstay for me on this diet, with only a slight bit of cheating. It’s great cause it takes less than 15 minutes to cook about two portions worth. First I spray the pan with PAM and heat up my choice of meat (turkey is my favorite). When that is fully cooked but still really tender I add in the veggies… usually broccoli, cauliflower, corn, and soy beans. Steak and vegetable seasoning is great for flavor. When those are done heating up, add I pour on a bit of canned beans (usually white or red) and let those cook until they start sticking to the pan. Stir periodically.

    Since Thanksgiving is just around the corner I found myself grabbing canned pumpkin. Add about a tablespoon of olive oil, some sugar, chopped onions, veggies, steak and veggie seasoning, cayenne pepper, and your choice of meat and it makes a great stew (sometimes I cheat and add about 1/3 of a sweet potato). You can also put this on top
    of rice or pasta for those “after-your-workout” meals.

    Also, omelettes in the morning are amazing! Once the eggs are cooked (assumingly intact) drop a few spoonfuls of cottage cheese in the center and sprinkle shredded cheddar around it. Close, put some baked beans and guacamole on the side, and eat up!

    Hope that’s helpful to SOMEone! ;)

    PS – A little hope for the ladies… I’ve been able to maintain a size 4 (I was a size 8 in june) loosely following this diet and doing natural strength work through dance. Gonna try to follow a little more closely and add routine jogging to see where it’ll get me. I’ll let you know how it goes. Besos ^_~

    Reply

  • Ez — November 13th, 2007, 12:42 pm

    Whats with all the sauces and flavoring man up like the rest of us and stop poisoning yourself with sugar and steak seasoning and trader joe’s. most “flavors” are extremely high in sodium and sugar, just like salad dressing you can take something perfectly healthy and make it disgusting. also dairy is NOT included in any of the groups you are supposed to eat from, so how do you put cottage cheese in an omelete. you know what people do, they make up their own rules and claim that they are following someone elses rules. duh that dont work

    Reply

  • Brett — November 14th, 2007, 6:30 pm

    Susie…

    No corn, no starch (i.e. White or brown rice, potatoes, etc.). As my doctor said, it’s almost like eating sugar. What I did was picked every food I craved all week and ate it on Saturdays, my off day. Less is more on this diet. Tim makes a good point. If you add to the program, you’ll end up cheating.

    Reply

  • Lynne — November 14th, 2007, 8:22 pm

    Thank you about posting the “No Corn”….this is a Carb! High Carb for that matter. This whole diet is to avoid the Carbs. So all you who think that corn is a veggie…think again, you are just hurting your progress.

    Reply

  • capser — November 14th, 2007, 9:29 pm

    I have one question for you. When you eat breakfast is it alright to eat eggs,toast,and a prtoien shake or is tat to much????????

    Reply

  • Nadia — November 14th, 2007, 10:58 pm

    Dairy also isn’t included in the groups we’re NOT supposed to eat, so while I don’t use it liberally, I feel totally free to use it. There’s also nothing about spices.

    But if you, EZ, choose to be a “man” and eat bland food, power to you.

    I’ll remain all woman over here, follow the diet, AND look hot doing it ^_~

    Reply

  • JMR — November 14th, 2007, 11:27 pm

    So I talked to a personal trainer the other day about this diet and he seemed to think that this is a pretty good way to trim down. The concept from this diet I’ve seemed to gather is that by cutting out the sugar and fast processing carbs, we are triggering the body to metabolize the stored fat to substitute for energy. My question is, why is it reccomended to eat carbs after a workout vs. before? If simple carbohydrates convert to sugars quickly for ease of use for the body to expend as energy, wouldn’t eating something like oatmeal or a turkey whole wheat sandwich “before” a workout be more beneficial than after? I’m confused on this, if we eat the carbs after and don’t expend the sugars because we worked out before hand, then doesn’t this defeat the purpose of triggering the fat to be utilized? I always thought that consuming something like a protein shake after a healthy workout is better for the body as it refuels the muscles? Also, can anyone answer the question about banana’s? I cramp very easily due to heavy workouts and loss of potasium and salt, I normally blend 1 banana with my protein shake mix and 2 cups of soy milk. Do banana’s convert to fructose like other fruits that are more juicy such as oranges, apples, berries, etc?

    Reply

  • JLA — November 14th, 2007, 11:35 pm

    hi again!

    susie-actually he does mention not having dairy, but I say, definitely always do what your body says is right!

    Raina–you are the nutrition maven. thank you for your solid information base and the detailed info on how to make almond milk. i am humbled by your knowledge and thank you for sharing it.

    to angry guy–i dont think anyone thinks Tim is a nutritionist, but he has experienced success and people want to know exactly how, and he leaves a lot of holes. thanks to all who try and fill them for us hopefuls!

    in my progress i will say that i get really bored of my same-damn-thing-every day diet, but i seem to figure out new ways to parse it. my new fave is chicken and veggie fajitas in romaine leaves. i am ashamed to say that i bought “accent” seasoning falling prey to the claim of “less sodium” without reading the very prominent ingredients, which were only, “MSG” damn. three bucks in the garbage.

    but vinegar is my friend, garlic and onion as well and may the heavens bless the all natural salsa. also, black beans, tuna, mustard, vinegar and onion make quite a lovely salad. and i am not sure i could live without my morning egg white scramble. but the candy crave is seeping in. my sweet tooth is fighting against me a bit. but empty bread-like carbs are all but dissolved, which is amazing for me. im still not sure this is exactly the right diet for me, but what i do know is that my shape is lighter when i am doing it. i am also convinced it is really best for men, as the ones that write in seem to experience miraculous results. but they have an easier time shedding fat anyhow. jerks. :)

    keep strong, sisters!

    Reply

  • Maggie — November 15th, 2007, 1:35 am

    Hi everybody, I was on this diet for the past 6 days and I lost about 4 pounds (i.e. 2 kg) so far. Hoooraaaaaaaaaay! I look forward to the 2nd week. Wish you all luck.

    Breakfast: egg lentil mixed vegetables
    Lunch: Chicken Salad (lettuce, chickpeas, bell pepper)
    Snack: 2 thin slices of turkey raw unsalted peanut cucumber.
    Dinner: minced Beef mixed vegetables red beans and a small glass of red wine (yummy!)

    Reply

  • william — November 15th, 2007, 3:56 am

    Just a quick update on my progress. It’s aprox day 12 on this crazy diet and I was freaking out when i looked at the scale. When I started the diet i was 195 and when i looked today i had to rub my eyes a few times. I am now 182 and only have about 10 to go until I am at the weight I was at when I started college in 01. I am then going to keep living healthy but not as extreme and maybe try to put on a few lbs of muscle.

    Reply

  • Brett — November 15th, 2007, 9:51 am

    Hi Gang…Like JLA said, dairy products are not permitted. Mainly due to fat content. (Check Rule # 3). However, don’t forget about supplements; Things like Vitamin D, which are plentiful in dairy…you can replace with a supplement.

    Ladies, hang in there! Though guys tend to lose weight faster, and in more obvious places (i.e. gut), I believe that this diet can be just as successful for you. Based on some of the responses, it seems to be going well. Whereas men seem to show results faster, by week four, the advantage should be eliminated. Keep going strong!

    JMR…I wanted to attempt to tackle your question regarding eating before/after workouts. Protein is actually less important in aiding your recovery than carbohydrates. Studies have shown as little as 6 grams of protein helps protein synthesis get moving. But exercise, coupled with this diet, can trigger a fat fast by our body. Consuming carbs immediately after the workout, whether on this diet or not, helps replenish your short term glycogen stores, and help with overall body hydration.
    One big point about this diet we all could pay more attention to is staying hydrated. I ran into that earlier this week and had a very slow recovery from a leg workout.

    As for the banana, may I recommend avocado? It has three times the potassium and double the sodium that a banana has. I mix mine with salsa, and have it with scrambled egg whites. If you’re concerned about getting enough of those two after workouts…that’s a better solution than a banana. The biggest concern with any fruit is sugar content. On average, a ripe banana contains 17.5 g of carbs, 1.7 g of starch, and 15.7 g of sugars. An avocado contains 2.2 g of carbs, 0 g of starch, & 1 g of sugar. So although avocado and bananas are both slow burning fuel sources for your body, avocado is the winner for this diet. It does contain higher levels of fat, but primarily monosaturated fat (roughly 3 g of saturated fat). One avocado a day is all you’ll need. Avocado will help you feel full longer. And help with cravings if you choose to have a few slices of one avocado with each meal throughout the day. Good luck!

    Reply

  • Ez — November 15th, 2007, 11:30 am

    Just was saying don’t fool yourself. and as for the carbs i drink waximaize before and after a workout its a fast delivering carb supplement that produces pump and high energy levels. admitedly i am not dieting to lose weight im dieting to “lose fat” exclusively not necessarily pounds. i eat huge quantities of the allowed food and have actually gained 3 lbs while losing 2% body fat in about 1 month while doing HIT (High intensity Training) i feel great! you dont need sugar (lactose, fructose) to feel GREAT! the reason your body “needs” those things is because of cravings. why do you think people become lactose intolerant as they get older? their bodies can no longer process the sugar in milk! everyone is entitled to their opinion but sauces and marinades are high in calories fat and all the other stuff you dont want to eat

    Reply

  • Web — November 16th, 2007, 9:17 am

    Hi All,

    I wanted to share what has been working for me. To really make this diet easy, I have a system where I can go from start to eating in 4 minutes or less (after initial prep time). I boil up some chicken and beans beforehand and keep them in the refrigerator. When it is time to eat, I grab a Pampered Chef 4 cup microwave steamer (it is awesome, I highly recommend buying one or two). I drop in some cut up chicken, beans and frozen vegetables. I add a little bit of water, put the lid on and put it in the microwave for 2 1/2 minutes. Then you just dump out the water (it has a built-in strainer) and eat. The only way it could be easier is if someone did it for you.

    In 2 weeks I am down 10 lbs (215 to 205). I am also doing the H.I.T. training. When I was younger I did a lot of weightlifting so it has been pretty easy to put the muscle back on. I didn’t feel a standard H.I.T. routine hit my shoulders and arms enough so I added one exercise for each and it has made a big improvement. But everyone is different, so I would recommend experimenting with what feels best for you. I’ll tell you though, this workout is tough if you do it right. I am dizzy in the middle of it, and downright nauseous at the end.

    I have to say though the most important thing (for me) is having a mental pattern change from previous bad habits. For example, whenever I would smell a bacon cheeseburger I would think, “Wow, I can’t wait to eat that.” Fortunately I have a $300 bet with a friend on who will lose the biggest percentage of weight by the last Sunday in January. So, now whenever I am in a compromising situation, instead of thinking, “Wow, I can’t wait to eat that” I think, “Must crush Mike!” Changing that mental pattern alone I feel is huge in meeting your goals, be it losing weight or quitting smoking cigarettes, etc.

    Good luck everyone!

    -Web

    Reply

  • The 4-Hour Body? — November 16th, 2007, 10:57 pm

    [...] I have not read Tim Ferriss’ The 4-Hour Workweek: Escape 9-5, Live Anywhere, and Join the New Rich but I did run across his blog recently.  The most popular post he has written is titled How to Lose 20 lbs. of Fat in 30 Days… Without Doing Any Exercise. [...]

  • Rapid and keeping it off — November 20th, 2007, 2:56 am

    Well for all those neigh Sayers, for my personal example I lost 45KG (100lbs) (123KG->78KG, 270 lbs -> 170 lbs) in around 6 months with a low carb (no white carbs!) low fat diet based on lean meats and fresh (low carb) vegetables and so far 8 months along I have kept it off; am I happy about it … you bet! My blood pressure is reduced dramatically, I fell healthier than since I was in my 20′s.

    In my honest opinion to lose weight (fat) you need to get yourself in a low insulin, low carb zone (sugars and starches) in which your body starts burning fat (Lipolysis) and keep it in that state for a many hours a day as possible. Carbs were limited to kiwi fruit or 1/2 apple twice a day to keep myself out of ketosis. Tim has some low GI beans, but I didn’t in my case eat beans; it is all about keeping low insulin levels and STAYING in that fat burning zone. Dairy was limited to low fat natural yogurt for breakfast.

    Drink lots of water. Trust the tape measure more than the scales, the tape measure doesn’t lie, it happens that you don’t lose weight for a week or two but your waist line reduces consistently, then almost overnight 2KG is lost.

    I believe rapid loss is the best way to lose weight as many have experience is easily achievable (1.5~2KG/week men, 1~1.5KG week ladies) any less of a rate and you are just prolonging the “pain”.

    Keep protein intake at reasonable levels, have some every meal, staying low carb is more important that zero fat. For example Salmon is a great fish to eat, dont worry about it being high(er) in fat. Lean proteins include Lean beef, chicken without skin, turkey, pork without fat, tuna (fresh and canned), tofu (but not as much), fresh sea foods such as lobsters, prawns, fish, shell fish.

    When going off (any) diet do it slowly and methodically over 2 to 3 weeks this is important, gradually increase quantities and reintroducing foods. This is really important.

    It is an absolute no-brainer to say that you will gain all the weight back back if you start eating like what you ate before, it made you fat before it will absolutely make you fat again…don’t do it and don’t lie to yourself! If you are ex-fatty you will need to maintain the low GI for most of your meals each week with the occasional exception ( twice a week)

    Reply

    • Diamond — July 2nd, 2013, 2:21 pm

      Hi, I’m 172 lbs and want to be 145 lbs in one month but my problem is I am vegan – no eggs, no meat intake. So anyone have any tips for me for protein sources other than animal and dairy products which is a big no. Really need help on this as want to start this diet very soon.

      Reply

  • Chris — November 20th, 2007, 6:03 pm

    Anyone have any tips for “mitigating” the damage from all the heavy meals during the holidays? I’m talking more in terms of exercise, other meals, supplements when you know you will overeat, not avoiding all the great food with my family.

    What is the impact of cardio or high intensity training before/after/around large meals? I know I won’t lose any weight this week, but it’d be nice to enjoy food with my family without gaining 5lbs

    Reply

  • Brett — November 20th, 2007, 10:39 pm

    Chris,

    Obviously, everyone’s different…but I would recommend trying your best not to overeat to the extreme and also picking one dessert. And having one portion of any sweets.

    I would exercise before you eat, because that will help the furnace get going. Consume large amounts of water and other non-alcoholic, sugarless beverages to help fill your stomach and prevent you from overeating too much. If you can’t get to the gym…take a brisk walk for at least a mile. It’ll burn more calories than a jog or run will do. And don’t forget to eat your vegetables. Avoid potatoes/starches, but sweet potatoes sans marshmallows are actually good for you.

    Avoiding things that create cravings (i.e. starches & sweets) will help you manage yourself. Stick to breast meat on the turkey, and maybe skip extra gravy.
    Have a glass of wine instead of beer.

    Good luck!

    Reply

  • Burn Fat with The Middle Manager — November 21st, 2007, 3:02 am

    Tim, this is a great post, which is not surprising since your book is also great. This is a simple and effective diet plan that should be easy enough for the “everyperson” to follow, and has some very important advice, not the least of which is that to burn fat, sometimes you have to take a ride on the crazy train and eat like crazy for a day.

    Again, great post!

    The Middle Manager

    Reply

  • Flat Stomach Exercises — November 21st, 2007, 8:18 am

    This is exectly what i did lose the few extra pounds that were bugging me.

    I am naturally skinny but u had that fat belly that just wouldnt dissapear.

    I combined the eating habits you suggest with some cardio exercises and finally can say i have a flat stomach.

    Thank you for the great information.

    Reply

  • chace — November 23rd, 2007, 8:52 pm

    hi tim, what is the pizza base made of, is there any cheese on it please, & what does post workout mean…?? how many pizzas can you have in a day or a week…& what size in inches is it please…?? PLEASE GIVE ME THE COMPLETE INS & OUT DETAILS PLEASE…& WHAT EXACT VEGATABLES CAN YOU HAVE, as i see carrots & other stuff on pictures, but you’ve not mentioned them, thankyou for your every effort in listening, please reply,

    Warmest of Kind Fruitful Regards Mr C. =)

    Reply

  • Omi — November 24th, 2007, 1:45 pm

    This is an excellent diet but I do have a few things to mention. People who start diets tend to drink a ton of water. Water should be taken in a quantity dependent on your lifestyle such as activity, protein (and other acid forming food/stuff) and caffeine intake, etc.

    The other thing is veggies really need be emphasized alongside proteins (especially if you’re not eating a lot of fruit). Green Tea can help, but from the looks of it, you’re diet doesn’t provide adequate antioxidants and phyto-nutrients. These are most bio-available in raw friuts and veggies.

    Green food is key too. A lot of that food is acid forming. People still might lose weight, but they are at a higher risk of cancer and other diseases, especially when not having adequate antioxidants. Google up the benefits of an Alkaline diet.

    Lastly, it’s not a good idea to use supplements unless your diet is missing something in whole form. A life of supplements isn’t a good idea unless it’s an absolute must (such as persons with high cholesterol needing more niacin). Supplements should be used only when other methods aren’t available.

    I know there are tons of long term benefits of losing weight. There can also be a ton of long term adverse effects from HOW you lose weight.

    Regardless, it’s good your putting people on the right track. Kudos.

    Reply

  • Andrew — November 25th, 2007, 4:48 am

    Interesting that the acceptable cereals, and other foodstuffs, you refer to in the list of what you can/do eat, are all brand/manufactured.

    I find so many USA products, have added sugar that the same brands don’t add when being exported.

    The problem I found with your suggestion is that by 10am I am flat as a pancake .. no energy, can’t think .. then need something I shouldn’t eat to get me back on an even keel.

    My breakfast before this was rolled oats (nothing added) with dried fruits (apricots, sultanas, cranberries etc – no added sugar) nuts (pistachios, almonds – salt free) and seeds (linola, pumpkin, sunflour) with natural yogurt.

    Any ideas?

    Reply

  • And so it begins … « The Diminishing Dames — November 25th, 2007, 5:13 am

    [...] lasses will post a running record of how they get on with a tweaked version of Tim Ferriss’ How to Lose 20 lbs. of Fat in 30 Days [...]

  • The Original WOE (way of eating) « The Diminishing Dames — November 25th, 2007, 5:42 am

    [...] Original WOE (way of eating) Tim Ferriss shared How to Lose 20 lbs. of Fat in 30 Days in April, 2006. After reading through the comments and responses, we’ve extracted, added and [...]

  • Anthony Dallmann-Jones — November 25th, 2007, 8:58 am

    Dear Tim…
    You are something! I think you should think President in 2016!

    Anyway, on the diet. I have exactly 20-25 lbs of water and fat. I am 65 (66 on Dec 4) so I need to lose this weight without developing “turkey neck” or “floppy tits”. I have worked out in the past so am not a couch potato. I run a gallery and it has been a two year (wonderful) headache and put an end to my working out as I do not have much time to myself. I have two full-time jobs, plus voluntarily direct a national non-profit that suppports teachers working with at-risk youth.

    I am a lacto-ovo vegetarian, but use soy milk instead of cow’s milk. It just does not sit right (cow’s milk) and I can tell: Not Good For Tony!.

    Soooo, how can I use the plan of losing 20lbs in 30 days with soy, seafood, eggs, soy, as my only source of protein?

    You can just skip to this last paragraph if you do not want to publish it all.

    Thanks so much.

    Tony

    P.S. My wife and I both read your book in late October and are developing our “product” so we can climb out of gallery debt, and get our property in oceanside Yucatan Peninsula and work 4 hours a week. Maybe I will write the next book: “The 3.5 Hour Workweek!” hahahaha

    I am serious about the weight loss. So please answer that part. Thanks.

    Happy Holidays, Tim.

    Reply

  • Lamont — November 26th, 2007, 7:14 am

    I have lost 11 pounds in about 4 weeks on this diet and that includes Thanksgiving and cheat days. I started at 227 Im now 216. I really really enjoy the diet and I am not ever really low on energy like low carb diets or starving like low fat diets.

    Reply

  • Mark — November 26th, 2007, 6:49 pm

    I just found this post. Coincidentally I have been doing almost EXACTLY what Tim posted here. Except I have been hitting the weights as well. I went from 215 to 180 lbs in 4 months. I figure I lost 45 lbs of fat and gained 10 lbs, muscle. Here are my most recent results. The before photo was taken in the changing room as I realized, “damn I got fat!” (hence the expression on my face)… http://www.sixpeeps.com/wp-content/uploads/2007/11/beforeafteremail.jpg

    Tim, I am going to try your techniques on gaining 32 lbs of muscle in 28 days. If I accomplish this, can I get some props in your next book, Tim? :)

    P.S. My “off” day is a full on eat-fest. I eat everything I can, ALL DAY LONG and I love it (until about 8 PM).

    ###

    Hi Mark,

    If you gain the muscle in 28 days and document it (photos from different angles and measurements from someone at a gym), I’ll find a way to get you BIG props :)

    Good luck!

    Tim

    Reply

  • Dan — November 27th, 2007, 4:26 am

    Hi
    That is a good suggestion.
    Thanks.

    Reply

  • Mark — November 27th, 2007, 10:30 am

    OK Tim, it’s on. Today I will print out the Colorado Experiment details and your rules here. I will read all and set my plan for a start date of Dec. 1

    That “after” photo you see was taken about a week ago and Thanksgiving week I don’t think I was able to transform my body for the better so I figure I’m exactly the same. I have several photos from that shoot. I’ll get measurements size and body fat before my first workout.

    This is perfect timing, just finished my 12 week experiment and needed a new one.

    Also, on another note, after listening to your audiobook several times, I have decided to take on another experiment; in lateral thinking. Utilizing your testing process in chapter 10 and the google-ad words, we are going to test my new web site which will launch tomorrow. I will tell you all about it after we get results worth bragging about.

    Our startup cost is looking to be less than $2000 which is getting us a call-center (VirtualOffice), a web site, and google ad-words (starting with 50 search terms).

    Can’t wait to become a two-time case study for you.

    This comment is just intended for you, I don’t really care to have it published if that’s OK.

    Thanks for all the great inspiration.

    Mark

    Reply

  • Tim H. — November 27th, 2007, 11:47 am

    re: Omi’s reply:

    I couldn’t agree more with Omi. What I do is this: My omelet in the morining consists of 1 egg white, 1 egg. On the wet side,before I flip, I load it up with raw spinach. I flip. Once done, I flip back to spinach, put in meat such as chicken, tuna or beef, add a piece of pepperjack cheese, a little hot sauce and Wheew baby! MMMM!. Now, I make up a bean and veggi mix that I put with my protein:

    Blk beans
    peas
    pinto beans
    asapragus
    onions
    your fav. spices.

    I cook that up and add it to my protein. I’ve gone from 300lbs to 268lbs. I also make sure I eat lots of raw vegis as well. Took a break…lost 12 more lbs and am back on the plan for 7 more months. I will be at 193 lbs when finished. I drink lots of water, run, excersize on Gazelle by Tony Little, hike, ride my bike, walk and so on. This has changed my life. Oh yeah, I went from size 42w pants to 34\36w. 2xl shirts to MEd\Large depending on teh brand! This works!!!!!! I tell everyone I know about this plan! It’s not a diet for me, it’s a life change.

    Tim H.

    Reply

  • Snomofam — November 27th, 2007, 2:22 pm

    Hi all,
    I have been reading your posts and am really excited, I am a 53 year old female that weighs 156 lbs. I have been exercising every morning for 20 min. I haven’t been able to loose any weight I am also a carb, bread and chocolate junkie.

    Can I use the egg beaters instead of egg whites. Today is day 1 for me.

    Reply

  • Dana — November 27th, 2007, 5:09 pm

    Hi everyone!! it’s me again!! I followed this diet for a bit…took a few week hiatus, but i’m back! It’s awesome…I cannot tell you how many times people asked “What have you been doing, you look great!” So though my number were kind of weak, the overall results are awesome… one question though…

    Do you think not including a cheat day is a good idea??? I mean at least until Christmas! Or is it an aid in the whole process??

    Reply

  • Benny — November 28th, 2007, 3:36 am

    Hi all, great article! I’ve got a few questions though before I give it a go. (I’ve had a good read of a lot of the comments but there are so many, so apologies if these have been answered).

    1. How about tomatoes? There isn’t much about fruit. Tim says to avoid fruit juice, but also says that salsa is ok. So I’m guessing tomatoes are ok?

    2. Are butter beans and chick peas ok? They’re both legumes right?

    3. Do I have to cut back on drinking wine? Tim says a glass a night is ok, trouble is I have about two bottles a night about three nights a week, (I’m British, lol). I suppose this is a silly question, maybe if I cut it down to saturdays, that could be my binge food.

    4. On saturdays, (freedom day), are you allowed white carbs? Tim only says he eats chocolate, I’m not bothered about chocolate, but a chicken vindaloo with loads of basmati rice would go down a treat!

    Any help would be greatly appreciated!!

    Thanks all

    Reply

  • Gita — November 28th, 2007, 12:39 pm

    Hi,
    This is a great opportunity for me to try as you said. I want to reduce atleast 20 pounds in 30 days. The only problem is, I don’t see a lot of vegetarian items. I am a pure vegetarian who takes no egg, no fish or no meat. I drink milk, bread, cereal and other vegetarian products.
    Pls let me know of some diet to follow and I am sure it will be useful to a lot more people. I am in real need of this plan very soon. I appreciate your help.

    Thanks,

    Reply

    • rachael das — April 13th, 2012, 5:02 am

      hello gita ,

      good to now that you are also vegetarian like me . wanted to know if you really lost weight .
      what was ur meal plan … plz share …may be it is helpful for me.

      thanks

      Reply

  • Lee — November 29th, 2007, 4:52 pm

    that sounds great and all and Id bet a thousand dollars your plan would work, but it sounds like to much of a hassle for me. Starvation and strict exercise actually works for me. Thanks though.

    Reply

  • Mind Body Spirit Journal ? Blog Archive » Secret to Losing 20 lbs a month? Make Your Diet Boring — November 29th, 2007, 6:04 pm

    [...] “The most successful dieters, regardless of whether their goal is muscle gain or fat loss, eat the same few meals over and over again,” he writes in a blog post at http://www.fourhourworkweek.com/blog/2007/04/06/how-to-lose-20-lbs-of- fat-in-30-days-without-doing-…. [...]

  • Stephen — December 1st, 2007, 3:49 am

    Hey Guys,

    I’ve been following this plan for 4 full weeks (4 or 5 small meals as prescribed minus the pizza)

    Breakfast : Salmon and half tin of pinto beans
    Lunch : Chicken and full tin of black beans
    Dinner: Large pot of Cottage Cheese
    ***Workout***
    Evening Meal : Chicken/Tuna/Haddock with a small tin of Green Lentils

    After 4 weeks I have lost 12lbs on the scales and my body fat has dropped from 13.1% to 10.1%

    I think 4 more weeks of this and I’ll be 6 Pack Ripped (for the first time in my life)

    Awesome plan.

    Stephen Naylor – UK

    Reply

  • Stephen Naylor — December 1st, 2007, 4:06 am

    Oh and just the record my Saturdays usually look something like this….

    Breakfast: 2 or 3 bowls of honey nut cheerios
    Lunch: a full 9 inch Pizza (thin base) – I like Dr.Oetker
    Afternoon Snack: Large bag of Malteasers
    Dinner: Pasta dish (god I miss a good pasta during the week)
    Evening: 2 or 3 bottle of beer

    Stephen Naylor – UK

    Reply

    • paul — May 7th, 2012, 6:41 am

      hi mate im from the uk i live in birmingham, where bouts u from, i started this diet today and am just having the foodsthat tim pointed out above, just wondered if u carried on with the diet and how much weight u lost in total, i am having trouble picking something for my second lunch can u help

      Reply

  • Linda — December 1st, 2007, 12:40 pm

    Hi everybody!
    After reading all the posts on this blog, I decided to give this a try.

    Had my first breakfast this morning (beans, veggies, egg)
    Took some getting used to, I’m like most people who are used to eating cereal in the morning.

    Looking to lose 30 lbs – will keep you all posted on my progress :-)

    Reply

  • katie — December 1st, 2007, 9:09 pm

    it was hard to loose wight but now i have lost 23 pounds and i feel so good

    Reply

  • Jessica — December 3rd, 2007, 12:45 pm

    I only need to lose 10lbs and have not been able to do it for a year. I workout all the time, so eating must be my issue. Will this work for me?

    Reply

  • Jessica — December 3rd, 2007, 8:49 pm

    I only need to lose ten lbs. will this work for me? I have not been able to lose any weight for a year.

    Reply

  • Sly Bald Guys — December 4th, 2007, 5:35 am

    How to lose 20 pounds in 30 days – My quest…

    Here’s a recap of my attempt at losing 20 pounds in 30 days without exercise….

  • Long Duck Dong — December 4th, 2007, 10:36 am

    Hello all,

    My whole life I had always been skinny, until the past year. For reasons I’d rather not discuss, I put on about 30 pounds of fat (200-230). Yuck. The scary thing is it really only looks like I put on 5-10 pounds… until I sit down, and rolls of fat start tumbling out of my belly. I have tried diets before, but never sustained long term results. This sounds like a promising diet. My goal is to lose fat, and gain a lot of muscle. Below is my routine, please feel free to give advice!

    9:30 Take Hydroxycut pill (Yeah I know it may not work. The thing is buying all this crap from GNC makes me go to the gym, because I feel guilty wasting it. Secondly, for those of you trying this diet I strongly suggest not to take this pill, as it has copious amounts of Caffeine, and I have a hard time going to sleep, and the longer I am awake the more time I notice the grumblings in my stomach)

    10:00 Eat breakfast. Same as above (all of my meals will be based on the original post)

    10:15 Take Creatine.

    10:45 Lift weights in the gym for about 30 minutes.

    11:30 Drink Protein shake

    1:00 Eat small lunch

    1:30 Play Wii boxing. Don’t laugh, this is my cardio. I challenge anyone to play this game for 20 minutes and not sweat your ass off.

    2:00 Take second dose of Hydroxycut

    3:00 Go to gym again. Work out same muscles for another half hour, or at least I try to. Usually I am pretty spent by then.

    4:00 Take second dose of Creatine

    4:30 Eat second lunch

    7:30 Eat dinner

    9:00 In bed, though I do not go to sleep for another couple hours.

    Well, I have been working out this much for about a week now, and just started this diet today. Will update my progress in a month.

    Reply

  • snomofam — December 4th, 2007, 11:10 am

    Hi all,
    Well my first week is over and I lost 6 lbs. I was really excited.

    I am following the diet with eating moderately on Saturday and I also exercise every morning.

    Everyone keep up the good work.

    Reply

  • Tyler — December 4th, 2007, 1:45 pm

    Hey everyone, here’s my recap of how I did on this plan for the first 30 days.

    http://www.slybaldguys.com/serendipity/archives/155-How-to-lose-20-pounds-in-30-days-My-quest.html

    Reply

  • Rob — December 4th, 2007, 1:59 pm

    Hello all,
    My whole life I had always been skinny, until the past year. For reasons I’d rather not discuss, I put on about 30 pounds of fat (200-230). Yuck. The scary thing is it really only looks like I put on 5-10 pounds… until I sit down, and rolls of fat start tumbling out of my belly. I have tried diets before, but never sustained long term results. This sounds like a promising diet. My goal is to lose fat, and gain a lot of muscle. Below is my routine, please feel free to give advice!
    9:30 Take Hydroxycut pill (Yeah I know it may not work. The thing is buying all this crap from GNC makes me go to the gym, because I feel guilty wasting it. Secondly, for those of you trying this diet I strongly suggest not to take this pill, as it has copious amounts of Caffine, and I have a hard time going to sleep, and the longer I am awake the more time I notice the grumblings in my stomach)
    10:00 Eat breakfast. Same as above (all of my meals will be based on the original post)
    10:15 Take Creatine.
    10:45 Lift weights in the gym for about 30 minutes.
    11:30 Drink Protein shake
    1:00 Eat small lunch
    1:30 Play Wii boxing. Don’t laugh, this is my cardio. I challenge anyone to play this game for 30 minutes and not sweat your butt off.
    2:00 Take second dose of Hydroxycut
    3:00 Go to gym again. Work out same mucles for another half hour, or at least I try to. Usually I am pretty spent by then.
    4:00 Take second dose of Creatine
    4:30 Eat second lunch
    7:30 Eat dinner
    9:00 In bed, though I do not go to sleep for another couple hours.
    Well, I have been working out this much for about a week now, and just started this diet today. Will update my progress in a month.

    Reply

  • Rob — December 4th, 2007, 2:04 pm

    Dana, while I am no expert I did do some research on the internet about diets which include “cheat” days, and overall people were skeptical it actually helps the process physiologically. However, no question it does help psychologically, and if this day of “utopia” is what you need to stay on the diet, then it absolutely helps. However, if you can make it without having a special day, my bet is you will lose weight faster, providing you eat enough calories a day.

    Reply

  • Sarah Erickson Ashley — December 5th, 2007, 3:26 pm

    Hey Tim,

    I’m wondering if this diet for weight loss is temporary or perhaps long term. I avoid all animal products. From research I’ve done, carbohydrates are the preferred source of energy/fuel for the human body. I’m also aware of the “protein myth” in this country as compared to others’. People in this country way over consume protein. Plant foods have adequate amounts of protein for the human body without having so much that extra amounts have to be eliminated through the urine via the kidneys. Ultimately this can lead to bone loss as nature’s perfect way of protecting the kidneys by utilizing buffering calcium drawn from the bones. When I switched to an all plant food diet, my excess weight came off with ease and effort. I was still able to rollerblade 10 to 15 miles per day in 90 degree weather without suffering energy loss. Plant based diets provide clean fuel for the body to burn and promote cleanliness from the inside out. You seem like a very intelligent man and I just wonder what your long term diet philosophy is all about. Have a healthy day, I know I will :-)

    Reply

  • Lacey — December 5th, 2007, 4:30 pm

    I read this blog a couple of weeks ago and since then, I had been reading all the comments off and on last week. I started on Monday, and as of this morning, I have lost 4 pounds (it is now Wednesday). I’m pretty excited about that.

    The only this is, I’m not sure what to eat for snacks. I have an office job, and I find myself getting hungry off and on durring the day. I’m not sure what I should be munching on that is good for this diet. I’ve been eating peanuts because I know they are low in carbs & calories, however they are high in fat. Anyone have any suggestions??

    Reply

  • Nicole — December 6th, 2007, 2:14 am

    Lacey,
    My Dr. has recommended a very similar diet for me, which i feel great on btw, and I had the same question about snacks. Nuts are a good snack, Almonds are preferrable, but an actual portion is only like 9 nuts. A better snack is carrots or celery with almond butter. Make sure the only ingredient in the almond butter is Almonds, no added sugar. I just put the veggies and 1-2 tablespoons of almond butter in a plastic baggie altogether and bring a napkin. Another good snack is any small portion of protein by itself. I like a few rolled up pieces of turkey.
    Hope that helps :)

    Reply

  • Josh — December 6th, 2007, 8:29 am

    For snacks I prefer dill pickle’s. A good protein shake always tastes good as well if you figure out your taste buds. After a workout I mix 2 cups of soymilk, a scoop of EAS chocolate protein mix, & a frozen banana.

    Reply

  • Thoughts For Fitness? » Works In Progress — December 6th, 2007, 11:51 am

    [...] recently discovered the blog of author Tim Ferriss, and his post about 6 weeks on a “slow carb” diet has gotten me motivated again. But his post about “Real Mind Control: The 21-Day [...]

  • Lacey — December 7th, 2007, 11:25 am

    Thanks Nicole and Josh for your input! I’ve actually been munching on dill pickles when I’m at home, but I don’t think I would bring them into my office ( I don’t want to smell like pickles all day :) )

    As for the carrots and celery, I have been munching on celery (thats the only thing other than nuts that I can think of to munch on), but aren’t carrots just like potatoes in the aspect that they are good for you, but very high in calories and carbs?

    Reply

  • Amanda — December 7th, 2007, 11:55 am

    In regards to: ( I am going to do the 4-Hour Body experiment/plan)

    “Do not drink milk, normal soft drinks, or fruit juice. I’m a wine fanatic and have at least one glass of wine each evening,”

    When you say fruit juices you mean the fake packaged kind? Can you have fresh fruit juice? Also would soy protein be good? I drinnk soy milk. And what kind/type of wine is preferred?

    Thanks!

    Reply

  • Trish Oleary — December 7th, 2007, 12:30 pm

    I don’t think you can have Fresh fruit juice either since there is ALOT of natural sugars in them. Your body can’t tell the difference between the sugars. After you have lost your weight than it is fine to have fresh fruit.

    As far as wine, I would go with reds and I am pretty sure I have read that Tim does as well.

    Make it a Great Day!

    Reply

  • Amanda — December 7th, 2007, 1:19 pm

    In regards to: ( I am going to do the 4-Hour Body experiment/plan)

    “Do not drink milk, normal soft drinks, or fruit juice. I’m a wine fanatic and have at least one glass of wine each evening,”

    When you say fruit juices you mean the fake packaged kind? Can you have fresh fruit juice? Also would soy protein be good? I drink soy milk. And what kind/type of wine is preferred?

    Thanks!

    Reply

  • Amanda — December 7th, 2007, 1:29 pm

    Thanks Trish! Much luv to ya!

    Reply

  • ElamBend — December 7th, 2007, 4:31 pm

    Tim,
    You should really check out http://www.arthurdevany.com. Art advocates what he calls an Evolutionary Fitness lifestyle, both in diet and workout habits (see this paper: http://www.arthurdevany.com/Chapter1.pdf ). It’s very similar to the ‘caveman’ diet. What makes Art really interesting is that he is an economist by training and trade who also likes to ride dirt bikes. His love of fun/adventure and his analytical side remind me very much of you. At seventy he’s as sharp as a tack and looks harder than a coffin nail.
    check it out.

    Reply

  • Stephanie — December 8th, 2007, 12:47 am

    I need to lose about 15-20 lbs. I will def try this diet. I sit in a cubicle during the day and try to take pilates.. but i am lazy. I was always in shape– not, at 26, I am just not happy with myself (still not “fat” though). I was looking for someone to just tell me what to eat and how to eat it and WHY I am eating it.

    SATURDAY FREE-FOR-ALL… I think I can handle this!! Thanks for the Help!!

    Reply

  • Stephanie — December 8th, 2007, 12:48 am

    “…I was always in shape– NOW, at 26, I am just not happy with myself…”

    **correction

    Reply

  • Precious — December 9th, 2007, 1:18 am

    Hey everyone!!! I am a female who is soo exited about trying this diet!! I really need to loose 30 pounds and this seems like the perfect diet, and I have read many of your comments and it seems like it works pretty good!! To make sure that i stay on track im going to blog everyday at…

    http://precious-preciosa.blogspot.com/

    Check it out!

    Luv-
    Precious

    PS: Support is appreciated!!

    Reply

  • jon — December 9th, 2007, 12:59 pm

    hey is tofu a good substitute for meat

    Reply

  • Jules — December 10th, 2007, 5:45 am

    I have been trying this diet. I lost seven pounds the first week-and-a-half, hooray! This past Saturday (December 8) was my first day off. I knew better to weigh myself on Sunday, but I figured the damage would be somewhat mitigated by this morning. Well, I have gained six pounds back. What? Is this normal? Should I really be taking a cheat day once a week? Am I going to lose that six pounds plus more in the next five days before the next cheat day? What do I do?

    Reply

  • Jules — December 10th, 2007, 9:39 am

    I have been following this diet since November 28th. I lost seven pounds since then, and I took my first cheat day this past Saturday, on December 8th. I didn’t weigh myself on Sunday, knowing there’d be damage, but this morning the scale said I put on six of the seven pounds I lost! Should the post-cheat day change be that great and last for two days? What happened? Should I not be having cheat days?

    Reply

  • Sylvia — December 10th, 2007, 2:16 pm

    Hello Tim,
    I come across this website just today and would try it right away, starting tomorrow. After I do my grocery shopping tonight. I am about 5 2′ and weighs at 140lbs. Ever since teenager, I am always the chubby one and being labeled as ‘the one size bigger than usual’ girl. I have always been struggling and would love to see myself slim and not chubby. I hope this will work for me. I am sure I will have questions along the way. Thank you for posting this up, Tim. Appreciate it.

    Sincerely,
    Sylvia

    Reply

  • Josh — December 11th, 2007, 12:36 am

    This is a reply to Jules above; Jules, only you can determine your cheat day or no cheat day do’s or don’t's as everyones body is different. My first week I lost 7 lbs, but the Cheat day put me back up 3-4 lbs and the following week I only lost 3 as the other 3 lbs was from the cheat day. I think ultimately having no cheat days would be most benificial to all of us but Tim does it to give himself a break from the routine. Maybe for those of us who gain it back so quickly should only do a cheat meal once a week, like Saturday night pizza or … This way we don’t go hog wild consuming whatever in every meal defeating the purpose that ultimately we are to correct the bad habbits that got us this way.

    Reply

  • Ezra — December 12th, 2007, 1:28 pm

    I am almost positive i know what is going wrong with the people who are gaining weight. the cheat day is not psychological its scientific. your metabolism can’t get used to one eating routine! changes made to the diet can cause drastic changes to your body. with that said, not dieting “perfectly” or exactly by the rules will cause you to gain weight on the cheat days…. why? because your glycemic index is low enough for you to lose weight but not enough to make a drastic change in your body chemistry. if you diet perfectly and then cheat, the cheat day is a shock to your system that allows for your body to react to the diet when you follow it next week. a few questions 1) do you eat any white carbs ever? because they are not even allowed after a work out.
    2) are you eating any dairy because dairy is not allowed
    3) are you eating enough??? if not your body will start to store fat because it doesnt know how much food is comming into the body the next time you eat.
    4) are you eating at the same times every day?? if not your body will store fat because it doesnt know when it will eat again.
    5) are you sleeping on a consistent schedule? no you dont need 8hrs a day but you do need to sleep the same amount of time at the same times every day to creat a pattern that your body can identify.

    now honestly the point of the diet like almost all other modern diets is to lower your glycemic index to put you in a state where your body creates waste out of sugar and muscle out of protein. if your body chemistry is wrong where your glycemic index is too high, you wont be in the correct physical state so when you cheat its as if you never dieted. most people eat like crap and any change makes them lose weight so they get excited. if you dont eat any carbs besides the beans and you eat whole wheat within 1hr of a work out, you can spike your calories one day and it will benefit your body chemistry. if you have one cheat meal then you dont understand the biology of the diet. if you dont have a cheat day then you dont understand the biology of the diet. if you adjust the diet at all then you dont understand the biology of any diet. if you could eat like crap and lose weight everyone would do it. the way i stay focused is i always remember what you put into your body is what you get out. another thing, toxins in your body may be forcing you to store fat, go get a colonic ( i never have but i heard it helps a lot to kick start weight loss)

    Reply

  • jack — December 12th, 2007, 5:18 pm

    what would you possibly have for breakfast?? i am rearly confused

    Reply

  • Stephen — December 13th, 2007, 3:09 am

    Ok, a couple of points for Jules….

    Firstly, if you are losing more than say 3lbs in a weeks then there are a lot of other factors involved too, such as water, glycogen etc.

    On my first week I lost 7lbs (for the above reason) but then after that my weight loss stabled out at 1-2lbs for every subsequent week.

    Next, focus on your body composition NOT your weight on the scales, by that I mean BF% and Lbs’s of mean mass to body fat – this is a far more accurate way to measure your progress.

    And fianlly, ‘cheat day’…you cannot gain 7lb’s of fat in a day, simple as that! Again if you are gaining a lot of weight quickly again this probably has more to do with the water, hydration stuff too.

    Take a look at my diet plan above if you like as a refernce, that above plan has had me losing 1-2lbs of FAT (not weight on the scales) every week since day one.

    Last point…when all else fails, keep track on the calories.

    Sun – Fri my calories are in the region of 1800/day
    Saturday around 4000.

    But that’s me, this is not a rule for eveyone and I’m a bloke – so take that into account too.

    Hope ‘some’ of that might be of help.

    Stephen – UK

    Reply

  • Badboybob — December 13th, 2007, 11:49 am

    Ezra, well said.

    The great value in Tim’s post is that he is outlingin a very simple to follow and understand diet with rational underpinings that he has used himself sucessfully. To change it is probably necessary for most of us in some way but you must stick to the principles.

    What are the principles? Well Tim is pretty clear so read it again if you don’t understand. Regarding the low-GI aspect, it’s pretty important to *only* eat low-GI type carbs such as legumes (beans of all kinds really, just not ones in tomato sauce as they are full of sugar – a white carb, geddit?). Here in the UK you can get loads of great little (ie pocket sized) books on the GI rating of almost any food from a mainline supplier. It’s well worth getting one and you soon get the hang of it. I think I paid about £4 too so they’re cheap too.

    To reiterate what Ezra said, eating low-GI carbs have a slower, more gradual effect on your raising blood sugar levels which is exactly what you want. White carbs in general spike your blood glucose levels which forces your body to produce more insulin to bring it back to within desired levels. Having blood full of excess insulin can be damaging to health in a variety of ways. The most damaging to our immediate goal is that insulin is the hormone that promotes fat storage.

    That’s right. You will store more fat if you eat foods that put your body into a high insulin state. Proteins and fats have almost no effect on blood sugar levels and therefore produce no insulin response. That’s why unless you’re real strict with the low-GI carbs your ‘gone wild’ day is ineffective, damaging even. If you’re cheating during the week your body just uses all that extra carbohydrate (ie energy) to make fat tissue and you put the weight back on.

    My advice? If you can’t be real strict all week you really have to avoid the gone wild day. If you’re strict, go for it. It helps because on this or any other diet you may not be getting enough calories and if this persists your body will store energy as fat because it thinks you are starving. Literally. A once weekly binge is enough to trick the body into staying in the fat-for fuel mode and not the fat for storage mode. This way you will continue to lose fat even if your weight isn’t changing all that much. Remember that losing fat, not weight is what it’s all about anyway. Be slow to make haste as they say.

    Anyway, I’ve said too much but it’s all in the book ‘Protein Power’ by M & M Eades that someone in the other diet/exercise thread here:

    http://www.fourhourworkweek.com/blog/2007/04/29/from-geek-to-freak-how-i-gained-34-lbs-of-muscle-in-4-weeks/

    HTH

    Badboybob

    Reply

  • Louie — December 14th, 2007, 5:49 pm

    im still 13 and my classmates are calling me fatty i need to start dieting or im going to die of embarrasment. My friend ate 1 apple for breakfast lunch and dinner and rides his bike to the highschool which is 5 miles away should i do that? He lost 20 pounds in 3 weeks and i want to lose that much because im 140 pounds and i should be 120 pounds im so over weight plz help me i should eat some more of those steamed egg things and egg yolk in milk thing that they suggest on youtube

    Reply

  • JMR — December 14th, 2007, 11:58 pm

    Louie,

    I feel for you, I was chubby in school during the younger years and kids were not nice. Just ignore them, you will probably grow into the little bit of extra weight you might carry. One tactic I always used was to figure out what so called “defaults” the bullies had so that when they made fun of me I would use their flaws right back at them. It normally shuts them up for good. However if you really want to try and eat right it’s really simple, just avoid things with sugar in them; pop, candy, chocolate, etc. Eat small amounts of breads and focus on protein. Don’t limit yourself to such diets as your friend did as that’s very unhealthy and could cause permanent long term damage. Good luck!

    Reply

  • Jordan — December 15th, 2007, 5:06 am

    I have been a vegan for several years now and have somewhat naturally adopted a diet similar to this one. Quinoa is an amazing food and contains more protein than many people realize. Also chick peas are a great adaptable food also high in protein.

    For all you vegetarians out there, you CAN gain muscle without eating meat, it may just be a little slower. And you will never become hulk-like, but I suspect this is just fine with a lot of people.

    Using principles I learned on this blog I have managed to gain 10 lbs of muscle in three weeks. I know that may not seem so much, but it is steady growth and I have done this with no animal products or supplimentation.

    Reply

  • Amy — December 15th, 2007, 10:54 pm

    I just ran across this site today. I am about 5’10 and 150lbs and while I do not appear fat, I have a lot of fat on my body that I would like to replace with muscle. I am interested in trying this diet as soon as possible, but I wanted some advice to make sure I am doing it correctly. I have been working out with a trainer for 3 months, but I can’t seem to escape some of my old habits.

    Breakfast: Scrambled eggs, black beans, slices of cheese
    Lunch: Grilled chicken, pinto beans, carrots
    Dinner: Beef, black beans, avacado
    Post-workout: whatever I am craving, without going overboard

    Do my choices seem like they will work?

    Also, is preparing food on sunday and just reheating it throughout the week ok? Can fish fit into this diet? On the binge day am I able to go out and drink and can I literally eat anything?

    I really enjoy hearing about people’s progress. I also like hearing about good meals people have come up with to eat. I really hope this will work and I can stick to it.

    Once people reach their ideal weight do you still stick to this diet or do you change your eating habits?

    Thanks!
    -Amy

    Reply

  • Kerry — December 16th, 2007, 5:01 am

    Does anyone have any recipes they would like to share? I want to begin the diet but I am not sure I have many recipes to use.

    Reply

  • Paula — December 17th, 2007, 6:52 pm

    My husband and I just started this – we are going to lose weight before our trip to Maui.

    I have hypoglycemia so every low carb diet backfired and I ate my weight in food because my blood glucose crashed.

    I know the diet above says eat all you want- but if you stop when your full… isn’t that the point? :o)

    A recipe that I love is a can of blackbean soup (look at the label should have just seasonings – no flour or sugar – Goya makes a great one- it is super thick and CHEAP) add 1 pound of frozen spinach, 1 tbs of cumin, a good shake of garlic powder. Serve with fresh cilantro and chopped onions OVER a chicken breast. A serving size for me was 1/2 cup – for my husband 3/4 of a cup. We added mixed veggies as well and were STUFFED!

    I have others that I will post later…

    Could someone direct me to a good website for an exercise plan that I will actually STICK to?

    Thanks!

    Reply

  • kevin — December 18th, 2007, 11:02 am

    tim,

    where do fruit fit into this diet?

    Reply

  • Rex Reed — December 18th, 2007, 6:06 pm

    What I want to know is the formula for doing that extreme weight loss described in the book. It had something to do with dehydration and rehydration…

    BTW, I’m chronicling my own Four-Hour Work Week journey on my blog at http://www.fourhourworkweekdiary.com/ and I’d love everyone’s encouragement, feedback, etc. Also, I am selling some merchandise related to my efforts to conquer time and money, and would love to know what you think of that!

    Rex

    Reply

  • Rex Reed — December 18th, 2007, 6:32 pm

    I wonder if my posts are showing up? Just a test.

    Reply

  • Jen — December 19th, 2007, 6:37 pm

    Hi folks… I breezed through the other posts and have to ask: does anyone else out there have a problem with beans?? The gas pains KILL me. I agree that having a slow carb is necessary with meals, otherwise I get woosy/cranky with the low calories, but it’s hard to be happy with losing weight when I’m so damn uncomfortable!! If I can’t tolerate beans, what other options do I have? Help!

    Reply

  • Tim Ferris über Diät « Fischkai’s Weblog — December 19th, 2007, 11:42 pm

    [...] Diät, Tipps |   Tim Ferris, Autor von The 4-hour-workweek, gibt ein paar Tipps zum Thema Abnehmen. [...]

  • Maggie — December 20th, 2007, 12:57 am

    Help! I have hit to a plateau after losing 10 pound in 5 weeks!!! What should I do? By the way, I jog on a treadmill 75 minutes 4 days a week. Comments are appreciated.

    Reply

    • steven — January 4th, 2011, 2:06 pm

      Maggie, your probably exercising too much imo which is what could’ve made you plateau quicker. Are you making sure to take advantage of your binge days? Those are pretty vital on this diet, in order to keep you from plateauing.

      Just as a example, I started running in the summer, did strength training a few nights a week, and followed a diet that was similar to this but had whole grains in it instead of beans…

      I lost 20 pnds in 2 months consistantly, but plateau’d after that… I tried exercising more, so I was running for 1 hour, 4 times a week, and 25 minutes of strength training 2 times a week. That went on for about 3 months and I only lost 5 pnds, in 3 months!

      so I quit for a month… pigged out, gained 8 pnds…

      I started this diet, with no exercise, and lost 5 pounds in my first week… 5 pounsd in the week after as well.. and I don’t seem to be plateauing at all… not yet… my method this time is just how Tim explains it in the book.. “put in the least amount of effort to get the biggest results.”

      So, I’m not lifting a finger for the first month, or untill I start to plateau, and then I’m going to introduce the exercises mentioned in the book slowly, to hopefully kickstart the fat loss into gear again.

      Reply

    • billie — August 28th, 2011, 3:00 am

      hi maggie…. your body has grown accustomed to your workout. you need to either do something different, can do intensity workouts. can take on something new that requires you using different muscles… i found boxing classes to be awesome… can also add in some weight training.. not only is this good with speeding up your metabolism but also helps you reshape your body.. more muscles does not mean more bulk…. sleep …. drink plenty of water,….

      Reply

  • Maggie — December 20th, 2007, 1:27 am

    Hi again! … I forgot to share the following recipe with you guys. I consider it a good breakfast, hope you enjoy it.

    Roasted Mushroom & Lentil Cakes

    150g mushrooms, sliced
    100g dried lentils
    60g walnuts, chopped
    1 medium onion
    1 egg
    2 tablespoons soy sauce
    1 teaspoon mixed herbs

    Cook the lentils in boiling water for 10 minutes, skim off any scum then simmer for a further 15 minutes. Meanwhile finely chop the onion, mushrooms and walnuts

    Drain the lentils, then when cooled combine with all the other ingredients in a mixing bowl. Use your hands to mix the ingredients together.

    Lightly grease a baking tray. Form the mixture into four evenly sized cakes using a pastry cutter or similar and place them on the greased baking tray. Cook at 190°C/380°F/Gas Mark 5 for 25-30 minutes.

    Reply

  • Amit — December 20th, 2007, 9:26 am

    I lose 2 pounds in a week :-)
    Excellent article BTW

    Reply

  • Sam Freedoms Internet Marketing Controversy Blog — December 20th, 2007, 8:26 pm

    Hi Tim, I saw there were 478 comments on here but I just couldn’t resist. Who knows what might come of it… especially with a creative powerhouse like me.

    Cheers..!
    Sam

    Reply

  • Sarah — December 22nd, 2007, 1:13 am

    Hey guys,

    I’m a freshman in college and well.. basically I’m starting to feel the freshman 15 =/

    The variety of food serve at my school consists of: sandwiches, deep fried food, food cook in huge amount of oil, stuff that i can’t the calories in.

    The food are usually served in LARGE servings and I hate waisting food. We also don’t have a kitchen where I can cook my own food, I also don’t have a mini fridge.

    so…HELP!

    what can I eat?!?!

    Reply

  • John P — December 24th, 2007, 10:16 pm

    Has anyone tried the Shangri-La Diet? It’s an interesting concept. You take a healthy oil and/or sugar water (yep) between meals. The idea is to lower your “set point.” The author of the book/diet is a pyschology professor who spends lot of time doing experiments…with himself as the guineau pig.

    Reply

  • Bobby — December 25th, 2007, 6:28 pm

    I’m starting this tomorrow at 215 lbs–should be closer to 185-190. Will report back weekly. Here we go!

    Reply

  • miley gibbasson — December 26th, 2007, 1:33 am

    this sturr really works so thanks to the creator

    Reply

  • miley gibbasson — December 26th, 2007, 1:34 am

    my @$$ used to be huge!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

    Reply

  • Do You Shock and Amaze? | Buzzoodle Buzz Marketing — December 26th, 2007, 10:42 am

    [...] to post less frequently, but shockingly good stuff that makes me rethink my life.  I read his weight loss post (and no, it is not a health blog, it is a lifestyle blog) and implemented the ideas.  I have [...]

  • Ezra — December 26th, 2007, 4:23 pm

    if we all ate grilled chicken and egg whites for every meal we would all be skinny. thats the hard part. its not about finding things you CAN eat and thinking about what you can’t eat.
    1) any sauce or dressing you are thinking of using (besides mustard) has fat or carbs or both. like veggie oil has a lot of fat. i have a place by where i work where they FRY chicken in soy bean oil, FRIED IS FRIED just because its fried insomething healthier doesnt make it healthy!
    NO DAIRY! NO CHILI! chili powder is loaded with sugar!

    for the youngsters, the more you can get yourself used to eating raw veggies and BLAND proteins the better off you will be. Think about how hard and gross it is to chew raw brocolli with no sauce (right no blue cheese) lets see you eat 3 pieces and still be hungry! i guarantee that you will be exhausted from chewing. and you will not be hungry!
    im not here to movitate you im here to make sure you have no excuses for failing

    Reply

  • meg — December 27th, 2007, 5:51 pm

    hi tim!
    i was doing some browsing and came across your diet plan and was very impressed.its definitely something i could commit myself to.see, i was a content 110-115 lbs, but over the holidays put on a horrible 15 pounds!!(good ol momma’s southern cooking..ah!) but now that the holidays are over i have got to drop that weight again! i have another photoshoot in just one month, and doubt my agency will be pleased that i am 15 pounds heavier than before, and…this photoshoot spread is VERY important to me! last time i dropped 10 pounds or so, i did so over the time span of 3 months or so( but without exercise,just dieting)but i dont have that long this time. so…just wanted to know if it was possible for me to lose these 15 pounds in just one month. i’d appreciate your advice and all the little pointers you can give me. thanks!

    Reply

  • peteyak — December 27th, 2007, 11:19 pm

    I have been doing this diet for about two weeks now. Jen asked about gas with beans. My legume of choice has been canned organic black beans. I have had ZERO gas problems with them.

    However, I used my crazy day on Christmas, and ate a bunch of cookies and fudge and candy, and it was a different story then. Hope that helps!

    Reply

  • Hunter Nuttall — December 28th, 2007, 1:43 pm

    I used to drink regular sodas as a kid, but I could never do that again. You might as well inject liquid sugar directly into your veins. Today, I find regular sodas far too sweet to be even remotely enjoyable. When I tried Thums Up (an Indian soda containing real sugar instead of corn syrup) out of curiosity, I felt like I was on speed.

    Now I like diet sodas, but I wonder about their health effects. Raina Gustafson (comment #392) mentioned excitotoxins, and I’m definitely concerned about their purported ability to explode brain cells. I also read somewhere that diet sodas have been linked to obesity, although no details were given. Finally, most of the places where I’d get a diet soda don’t carry caffeine-free varieties.

    I’m trying to drink more water (with lemon where available), and cut back on the diet soda.

    Reply

    • lloyd — January 8th, 2011, 5:55 am

      Hi Hunter,

      I asked the same question a couple of months ago and was pretty shocked at the answer. I looked on the back of a pepsi max and googled the ingredients one by one. Every single one had links to cancer and other nasty things. There is some shocking reading when you take a look at the studies undertaken to get these substances approved in the first place aswell. The best thing in my opinion is to avoid them completely, your body doesnt need all those chemicals flying around it.

      As regards diet drinks and obesity, there was some research done that indicates the sweet taste prepares you body for calories. When these dont come it was shown that people over eat to make up the calorie deficit. Subjects who drank diet drinks before a meal ate something like 15-20% more vs those who didnt. Pretty interesting.

      If you want to get a bit more variety into what you drink rather than just drinking plain water all the time try this, it doesnt sound that nice but i promise, it’s great and really good for you:

      Three pieces of frozen spinich, 1 sprig of fresh mint and a little grated ginger to taste. Blend with water and mix in a bottle to make a litre/litre and a half. Tastes great once you get out of the mode of eating sugar all the time and is packed with good stuff. Much better than the diet drinks! :)

      Reply

  • Mary — December 29th, 2007, 3:22 am

    Hello, This is Mary

    I am 36 years old with 2 toddlers. My youngest just started day care last week- which still feels a little strange. I haven’t had this much time to myself in years. First thing I want to do is lose the extra pounds I put on during the last pregnancy. One of the girls next door has suggested I join her walking group two days a week. After my first pregnancy I lost around 35 pounds using the Herbalife products, but when I called the man that sold them to me three years ago he told me this week he doesn’t sell them anymore. He told me to look on the internet. It’s disappointing because he was really nice and he called me regularly to make sure I was using their products correctly. It was nice to have someone checking in with me every week to see how I was and it kept me motivated.

    I searched on the internet for someone that sells Herbalife in New Jersey. I found many websites but I don’t want
    just to buy the products, I want to find someone trustworthy that sells the products so I can also meet them and get started again.

    Could anybody here recommend someone in New Brunswick?
    .

    Thanks, Mary

    Reply

    • Amy — August 25th, 2011, 11:15 am

      great info, the good thing about avoiding eating anything white is it also keeps you away from sugar. If man made it don’t eat it.

      Reply

    • Denise — January 6th, 2012, 10:28 am

      hello i just was curious did the herbalife make you feel funny at all i really need something to help me lose weight i am going to try Tim plan but wanted a little something else to help along the way.

      Reply

  • Hunter Nuttall — December 30th, 2007, 6:42 pm

    Hi, Mary. Sorry to hear you had a good one who got away. What I’d suggest doing, if you haven’t already, is just to talk to your friends about it.

    You may be surprised to find that someone you know is an Herbalife distributor, or a customer, or they know someone who is. Very often people don’t talk about these things because they don’t realize you’re interested in supplements. Good luck.

    Reply

  • luly — December 30th, 2007, 11:13 pm

    hola, soy mexicana y no se hablar ingles ( i dont spik inglich ) los amo :D

    Reply

  • athi — December 31st, 2007, 9:47 am

    i need help tim
    im 15 and wiegh 72kg
    need to loose wieght but dont no how to i burn on average about 700 calories on the treadmill in 1hour and a half a day. i eat about 1000 calories a day and i havnt got a certain way to eat i just eat when ever. i drink about 2 liters of milk and 2 litres of water a day.
    im not sure if im doin it right so could you please tell me what i need to change and what i can keep the same. could you also give me an ideal way to eat, the only problem is i dont eat my dinner after 7pm but i eat some sort of fruit or veg after my dinner ussualy after all my meals if i can. let me asap what i need to do.

    Reply

    • Kylie — November 23rd, 2010, 2:25 pm

      I’m 14 and weigh 95kg. This all helps if you drink a big glass of water before you eat and after. This is because it should make you a litlle fuller and flush you out

      Reply

      • Doublerainbow — January 29th, 2012, 12:10 am

        I’m going to try that

        Reply

        • selena — July 29th, 2012, 7:50 pm

          i have been trying to lose weight for a long time and i originally went on a diet of only fruit and veggies.. i gained 4 pounds and no matter what i do to lose weight i just cant seem to lose weight i am going on a diet and i am excersising 30-40 min a day. i will see if this works but kids or teens… if you want to get skinny just to get people like guys and friends to like you.. don’t. if Ur bf wont like you cause ur weight then he is not worth it. lose weight for your sake not just cause of other peoples opinions.

          —- selena

    • Jose — December 19th, 2013, 5:56 am

      Dairy products are very high in calories. You need to stop drinking so much milk first. A glass a day is enough.

      Reply

  • Michelle — December 31st, 2007, 4:14 pm

    It doesn’t look like Tim replies to any of our comments, I wish he would at least do a better outline of the diet, for example, what are the recommended calories for the day, and I dont’ get the post pizza….is that every night, or is it whatever we want with in reason post workout??? Seems like overall this is a healthy diet plan, and it shouldn’t be too hard to figure out how to incorporate new food choices so you don’t get bored, no dairy, no bread, pasta, sugar…lots of protein, veggies, and a cheat day, I think that gives you something to look forward to at the end of the week, as long as you cheat within some normal moderation. I followed Simeons diet over the summer for 21 days, it was lower calories, and protein, with choices of veggies…it was bland, and boring, but I saw results immediately, about a pound every other day, and the success kept me interested. I may try this diet out, I only have about 10 pounds I’d liked to get rid of, but I would like to see the results from eating this way for a few weeks.
    Good luck all, and maybe Tim will give a more detailed outline sometime.

    ###

    Hi Michelle,

    Unfortunately, I can’t possibly respond to all of the comments or I’d be doing it all day. Here are a few ideas: pizza is post-workout, and there are no recommended calories for the day. If you eliminate the white carbs, it’s very, very hard to gain fat eating excess lean protein or vegetables. Near impossible.

    Hope that helps :)

    Tim

    Reply

    • Cindy — January 13th, 2011, 8:33 am

      Hi all!!! Just wanted to leave a quick note. I’ve been doing 4HB for almost 3 wks and have lost 7 pounds. It really is amazing! I have tried diet after diet and NEVER been successful. I really didn’t have too much to lose ( my goal is 14) but the smaller you are the harder it is to lose, so 7 pounds is a lot for me! I have just started working out this week so hopefully the last 7 will come off as easily as the first did. I have not been as strict as Tim is and this diet still works. These are my meals.
      1. Breakfast- scrambled eggs (1″real” egg and equal part fake egg), 2-3 pieces turkey bacon
      2. Lunch- palm sized piece of meat, one package steamed veggies, sugar free gelatin X 2
      3. Snack- one package steamed veggies
      4. Dinner- palm sized piece of meat, beans, steamed veggies or salad sugar free gelatin, 1-2 glasses red wine

      No hunger whatsoever and I like the food. I won’t lie, the first few days I wanted some carbs sooo bad but now, I barely even want them. Even on my cheat day, I do cheat but never want the carbs as bad as you think and just feel yuck after I eat them. We are truly a nation of sugar and white carb addicts!! I feel so much better and have more energy now that I’m not roller coasting sugar highs. Seriously, try this diet – it really does work.

      Reply

    • daniel — January 22nd, 2013, 6:11 pm

      I see that you are having the same difficulty that many others are having. I will be opening a new site on Google within the following week or so.

      On this site I will help as many as I can with dieting, using research that I’ve already conducted.

      I will also be following a program at a local college based on a training design the i developed using the Tabata timed intervals.

      If you are interested, please feel free to email me and I will share the site with you, and anyone else who is interested.

      Dan Day, CPT

      Reply

  • kathryn — January 1st, 2008, 2:39 pm

    Tim – one bread that is high glycemic is Ezekial SPROUTED wheat. Texture is something between whole wheat bread and cardboard. Toasting is recommended. English muffin version is my fave. Don’t eat it all the time but for a change of pace I love it.

    Looking back on the last year, I have evidently adopted the 11 mos diet with the 12month holiday dieters dream. I’ll try your scaled back approach for Jan!

    Reply

    • Aseem Khan — October 16th, 2011, 1:29 am

      Hi Friend’s,

      I new so plz help me how to i lose my fat / weigh…
      I am 27 year old and my weigh is 74 kg. so tell me how to i reduce my weigh mainly my Tummy / Bum & Thai…

      I am waiting for your’s reply..

      Reply

      • ummey habiba — May 4th, 2013, 5:09 am

        u take a spoon of honey with hot water before breakfast

        Reply

        • Heather — December 3rd, 2013, 8:56 pm

          Hi i am 13 and want to loose weight, my parents dont diet AT ALL!!!! Im a pretty decent weight but it wouldnt hurt to loose about 7 pounds. I really like eating heathy and i dont really like junk food. I would love to go for a walk or run evry day but my parents would get mad and think i was trying to loose weight (they dont use much common sense) i know i would be loosing weight but if i only lost like 7 pounds i would still be in a healthy weight range for my height and age(i did my reasearch!!!!:) l my parents dont know much about health but all i want to be is a teen with good habits. Does any body have any advice???

Subscribe to followup comments via RSS | TrackBack URL