How to Lose 20 lbs. of Fat in 30 Days… Without Doing Any Exercise 5,110 Comments
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:
Scrambled Eggology pourable egg whites with one whole egg, black beans, and microwaved mixed vegetables
Grass-fed organic beef, pinto beans, mixed vegetables, and extra guacamole (Mexican restaurant)
Grass-fed organic beef (from Trader Joe’s), lentils, and mixed vegetables
Post-workout pizza with extra chicken, cilantro, pineapple, garlic, sundried tomotoes, bell peppers, and red onions
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
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5,110 Responses to “How to Lose 20 lbs. of Fat in 30 Days… Without Doing Any Exercise”
June 30th, 2008
8:15 am
Just completed four weeks and lost 14 lbs. (from 234 to 220). Believe I lost more than 14 lbs., since I lost 2 inches off my waist. No exercise. Age 47. The best results I’ve had from a diet ever. Thanks Tim Ferris!
June 30th, 2008
8:17 am
Oops. My comment should read “Believe I lost more than 14 lbs. of fat…”
June 30th, 2008
4:24 pm
awesome
June 30th, 2008
7:51 pm
I love food. I just eat 5-6 times a day and focus on proteins and healthy carbs. Rice once every few days is fine. It’s great fun, allows me to get creative in the kitchen and has absolutely fired up my metabolism. Every couple of days I eat whatever I want, and I have not moved from 69kg for the last couple of months. (I am 29 years old @ 172cm)
No supplments and exercise just once a week. The real key for me was eating more than three meals a day. Oh, and only working three days a week and spending the other four playing with our baby who is 10kg and is perfect for constant dead lifts, bicep curls and playing superman (great ab workout). :)
June 30th, 2008
11:48 pm
Febin,
The key is to just KEEP going. Even if you have a momentary lapse, be it for one meal or a whole week. When you realize you’ve gotten off course, get back on. You can do it!
NK
July 1st, 2008
1:58 am
244 down to 226 not to shabby see before and after pics at my site and contact me if you need a push or a kick to get going I will help you!
Cheers!
July 2nd, 2008
12:41 pm
I just started this diet yesterday morning after a two month low-carb and binge death cycle. I am at 215 now, and my goal is 180. So far I like it, though all the legumes and veggies make me feel a little bloated, but I am thinking that will pass in a few days. Other than that I am feeling fine and look forward to introducing some exercise and of course the cheat day.
July 2nd, 2008
1:53 pm
The one day a week of eating pure crap is true. I did the body-for-life program which also has this same plan…except you eat 6 meals a day.
I did it for 12 weeks…..which means 12 free days of eating ice cream, chips, fast food, chocolate, more ice cream and even a beer once in awhile….
I lost 22ls of fat by the end and gained 7 lbs of muscle while shedding my body fat % in half….it worked really well
July 2nd, 2008
2:11 pm
[...] and recommended reading: How to Lose 20 lbs. of Fat in 30 Days… Without Doing Any Exercise From Geek to Freak: How I Gained 34 lbs. of Muscle in 4 Weeks Beating the Morning Rush: The [...]
July 2nd, 2008
6:45 pm
Hey Tim Groupies
Thanks Tim for sharing your researched diet. I’ve been on the diet two weeks. I’m not sure how much/if any lbs Ive lost – it doesnt matter to me. But after some bumps, all in all the diet makes me feel healthier and more in shape- I run every other morning 15min and am gradually increasing for 30
Symptoms (results) of the diet have been needing to pee a lot (I’m drinking a lot more water), irritability (maybe not becuase of the diet), hunger, craving grain foods and in the first few days weakness. I’m pretty much used to eating the same four meals every day now (with a few slips). Except the day after Sat. I’m kind of like “uhhhhhhh”. The day before Saturday is actually the best. I’ll make a mental list of all the food I’m going to eat the next day while searching the cupboards and then the day of I’m not really too intersted. Oddly.
From my experience and noting others on this post, this diet is most effective with overweight people…I’ve got a BMI of 20 and I was looking to improve my lifestyle just for health-sake and felt that Tim’s diet would be a good way to flush out my system of toxins, etc.
BUT though I do feel this diet is healthy, obviously more healthy than the processed, benefitless junk that most “Americans” survive on, I don’t think IT is enough. Dr. Manny Alvarez’s book The Check List has great sections on this. To have a life of harmonious health you NEED exercise. Not just lifting weights for muscles, but cardio. Fruits have mental benefits that arent worth sacrificing for the vain weight that you may loose from excluding them from your diet. I think balance is so important. Some exercise (it won’t kill you – like this diet youll get used to it and enjoy it) and smartly-portioned meals a day of all the food groups as natural and organic as possible, plus lots of water.
Personally this is my goal – a harmonious healthy lifestyle – and though I don’t totally agree with Tim’s plan long-term though he has been doing it long-term, it’s a great kick-start for whatever your goals are and a great way to bring your body back to square one (a clean slate). Thanks – Peace
July 2nd, 2008
8:43 pm
I have been on this diet since Feb and lost 8p. I’m 5’6 and 127 and my goal weight is 105. My cal intake is about 1200 – 1500/day and I follow the regimen Tim has outlined. Morning: 1 egg + 1 serving egg white (35 cal) + 1/4 cup (lentils) + spinach. Lunch is chicken or beef (4 oz) with 1/4 cup w/ lentils (beans) and spinach or asparagus – dinner same as lunch. at night 1 – 2 glasses of wine. I also train on daily bases. Why am I not loosing more weight? Sat is cheat day but I never exceed 2000 cal. Also, I drink 3 cups of coffee with splash of milk per day. I tried the supplements for almost 2 months but didn’t see any difference. Help!
July 2nd, 2008
10:50 pm
You recommended supplements which will increase insulin sensitivity.
How will this effect someone who is hypoglycemic?
###
Hi Laura,
Anyone who is hypoglycemic, or otherwise has a medical condition (particular type-1 diabetes), should consult with their doctor before taking these supplements. Most of them can be used safely with supervision, but the dosages will affect blood glucose and insulin levels.
All the best,
Tim
July 3rd, 2008
7:59 am
Hi Laura,
Anyone who is hypoglycemic, or otherwise has a medical condition (particular type-1 diabetes), should consult with their doctor before taking any supplements like alpha-lipoic acid that increase insulin sensitivity. Most of them can be used safely with supervision, but the dosages will affect blood glucose and insulin levels.
All the best,
Tim
July 3rd, 2008
9:37 am
I am having the same problem as Mimmi! I am sticking to the diet w/ out any cheating except my one day a week, and after 3 weeks I have only lost 2 pounds. I am getting very frustrated!! I definitly expected to see better results than this!
Breakfast-2 eggs(one whole, one white) with spinich and 2 slices of lean turkey bacon & coffee
Lunch-Chicken, beans and mixed veggies
Snack-Pinto beans
Dinner-Turkey burger & veggies
Lots of water throughout the day
Am I doing something wrong??? Does anyone have any suggestions??
July 3rd, 2008
10:11 pm
Intermittent fasting is by far the easiest and fastest way to lose fat once you adapt to the fast. There’s some resources on my site if anyone is interested.
July 4th, 2008
8:57 am
Hey Monica and Mimmi
I note that although Tim Feriss called the thing how to lose 20lbs with no exercise, he also said he gained 10lbs in muscle which means he must have been working out pretty hard.
I think maybe the answer is to do some strength building and cardio exercise as well as the diet. At least that’s what I’ve been doing. I don’t think you need all that much time wise although doing it hard when you do do it helps. At least based on stuff I’ve read and a bit of trial and error. Apparently hard muscle or heart exercies makes your body release human growth hormone which helps you shape up and look younger.
So far I’ve dropped from 17lbs in 80 days which I’ve been happy with if not quite as fast as adveritsed.
July 5th, 2008
12:51 am
I was just wondering if the milk is kind of “off limits” what can I do for calcium? Probably can’t have any yogurt either, huh? Or do you just take calcium supp’s?
I am going to try this plan next week, after I get to town to go to the store and buy these things, I really feel like it will help me a lot along with exercise! How have people been doing? Any female’s lost a significant amount of weight and if so how much and how long?
July 5th, 2008
5:33 pm
These are great tips but I will add one to the mix, use a treadmill desk like the TrekDesk to keep your metabolism going all day. You walk at a very slow speed and it burns up the calories like you wouldn’t believe.
July 6th, 2008
8:08 am
Why do you say “Lose 20 lb without exercising” and than talk about a
“post-workout” pizza?
July 6th, 2008
1:10 pm
Hey everyone,
I’m going to start this diet tomorrow, but 1st, I have a few questions.
1. Is lentil soup ok? Here is the link to the nutrition facts:
http://www.fatsecret.com/calories-nutrition/progresso/lentil-soup
2. Is it ok if I put stir fry sauce on my veggies?
Thanks for your help!
July 6th, 2008
4:20 pm
I started today, hope this really works. 6’4″ 251, last night was great, did my blowout.
July 7th, 2008
4:16 am
Suzanne – he means that if you CHOOSE to work-out during this diet, you are allowed to have some carbs right after a work-out, like the pizza he is suggesting. You should probably read the post again… there are some other fine details you may want to be aware of…
July 7th, 2008
5:08 am
Hi,
Need some advice:
Are oats OK on this diet?
Thanks.
July 7th, 2008
5:54 am
Hi, I am 33 yr old, 5’5″ and 195lb female. I hope this works! I eat tons of carbs so I know its gonna be a challenge, but hey, if its any consolation, just knowing that I’m 195lb and that I currently eat TONS of carbs should mean the exact opposite should happen if I STOP eating the carbs, right? I am psyched about the “go crazy day”, thank God I can still have my carbs, if only one day per week! I’ll let you know how it goes. I currently exercise 3X a week (cardio) and plan to continue with it on this diet. I am a little confused about being able to eat carbs after a workout. It seems this is a gray area and I like things more black and white so for me, I will be eating only lean protein, lots of veggies and slow-carbs (beans) for every meal and only have my beloved “bad” carbs on my blow-out day. Ok, 195 to hopefully 175 in 30 days….here I come. And of course, my goal weight is actually 140 so I have quite a bit more to lose after the initial 30 days. Wish me luck
July 7th, 2008
8:01 am
so, around a year ago I was at my heaviest, about 278 pounds and I’m only 20 years old and about 5″11, so needless to say I was in need of some serious help. so since about january I made up my mind to lose weight and keep it off, and right now I weigh about 225. I have been looking for more stability in my dietary habits so from reading all the posts I got inspired again (I have been in a slump lately) and am going full into this eating plan, thanks for the posts tim
and I’ll keep you all updated
July 7th, 2008
12:19 pm
I just wanted to tell everyone about a fantastic site if you’re truly interested in knowing what you’re eating! http://www.nutritiondata.com. This site gives you very detailed nutritional information about the foods you are eating. It even tells you, in detail, all of the nutrional info about almost every fast food item or grocery store product you can think of. Just seeing what is in some of the “food” I eat makes me shudder…don’t believe me, just look up a BK Whopper when you go to the site! OMG! Talk about incentive to eat better! I’m starting Tim’s diet in two days and I’m not wasting my time wondering if I can eat fruit, oats, or anything else other than the items Tim listed. He mentioned in an earlier post that his diet in not meant to be fun, its meant to be effective. Think boot camp and just DO it!! Hoo-ahh!!
July 7th, 2008
2:58 pm
Something interesting about soy if anyone is interested (especially parents). http://www.wnd.com/news/article.asp?ARTICLE_ID=53327
I am starting Tim’s diet tomorrow, I’ll let you know what happens.
July 7th, 2008
3:05 pm
does this really work?
July 8th, 2008
5:08 am
I understand that we can eat carbs after working out because our glycogen stores have been emptied, so doesn’t that mean we can also eat carbs after waking up since our glycogen stores are usually gone after sleeping?
July 8th, 2008
12:40 pm
Thanks Tim S!!!!
Monica
July 8th, 2008
8:16 pm
I will be attending my 10yr high school reunion in September. I am anxious to try your diet. Being female it seems that diets don’t always work as well or as fast, but I am will to give it a go! I will let you know if all the old jocks were asking for my number.
July 8th, 2008
11:11 pm
Hey I’m new to this website and i was wondering if u could send me an e-mail of whats good to eat or what u normally eat and what u do for workouts cause every time i look for a website that would show me exactly what to eat or what to do for a workout routine but i can never find one
Thanks a ton
– Corey Smith
P.S. if anyone wants to tell me or ask me something my e-mail is flamethrower550@comcast.net
July 9th, 2008
4:00 am
I have always been a proponent of vegetarianism for losing weight fast. To lose belly fat the best diet especially at night is a good plate of green salad. Once you start on this you will learn to make tasty salads( there a hundreds of recipes). And forget the calorie counts. Eat as much as you want.
Sri
July 9th, 2008
1:35 pm
Dmitry – The post is titled it “How to lose 20 lbs of fat without Exercising” The few people on here that say thay lost weight have been working out a lot. Others have done it and not lost any weight. So, I’m just trying to get the facts.
What am I missing?
July 9th, 2008
3:58 pm
The program will make you lose weight without exercise if you stick to it 100%. Obviously, exercising will improve the results and make you feel better but not necessary. However, after the first month, this program without exercise wont continue to make you lose 20lbs a month, but a good start to becoming lean. Maybe a quick one just before the beach!
July 9th, 2008
4:22 pm
I JUST STARTED DIET AND I GUESS WOMEN GET MORE ADVENTURSOME ON WAYS TO FIX THESE MEALS:)I TEND TO TRY AND THINK OF REFRIED BEANS AS MASH POTATOES, AND A GOOD MEDIUM SALSA AND BROCOLLI SLAW, YA CAN BUY IT ALREADY CUT IN THE SUPERMARKET. I WIL LET YA KNOW OF PROGRESS. I THINK ONCE I GET PAST THE BLOAT FEELING I WILL BE :) or do ya ever?ANY WENT TO GYM AND STARTEING EXERCISE REGIMEN. EVERYBODY KEEP UP PROGRESS REPORTS AND RECIPES.
July 10th, 2008
11:24 am
Hey guys there is this super healthy ice cream that i eat on this diet, do you thing it’s ok? Here’s the link to the nutrition facts:
http://gatordlites.com/fotos/produc03.jpg
It only has a few carbs so I thought it’d be ok
July 11th, 2008
3:00 am
is this diet okey for breastfeeding mothers?
July 11th, 2008
9:04 am
Can you use any herbs and seasonings for your meat/veggies/beans?
I’m assuming limiting butter and salt…but what about curry, chili powder, ect?
THANKS!
July 12th, 2008
3:10 am
Hi. I got a couple of questions about this. First, I am currently working out about 5-6 times a week, doing 2 sessions karate/kickboxing, 3 of weightlifting, and also play basketball probably another 2 days a week. I obviously would have to adapt the structure of this diet to accompany my needs, but would it help towards faster muscle recovery?
Secondly, I actually am trying to lose fat, cause of an injury a couple of months ago during which I put on 5kgr, so would it cause a strain on the body if I followed this diet? Last question, I have never taken supplements, and would not like to start now. Anyway round them? Thanks.
July 13th, 2008
12:32 am
I’ve been on this diet before and had great results. However, I had a few problems that caused me to break from it (along with the fact that I am visiting family and they don’t understand why I’m on a diet). First of all, I have a huge sweet tooth…has anyone found a good way to manage their sweet tooth during the week?
I’m going back on the diet starting tomorrow. I plan on making frequent posts here to keep me on track. If anyone needs support feel free to talk to me on AIM: darkblue439
Cheers!
Ann
July 13th, 2008
5:22 pm
To Ann, regarding the sweettooth.
I just stumbled upon this site this afternoon and while I’m not on the diet, I discovered something recently that helps me overcome my sweettooth. This suggestion might not be entirely diet-friendly for this diet, but the stress caused by denying myself everything I’d want is probably worse.
I noticed that I can buy a bar of chocolate, and with a normal speed of breaking off a couple pieces and chewing and swallowing, quickly consume 6-8 pieces before I feel sated. Alternatively, I can take one or two of those same sized pieces of chocolate, and suck on them slowly for maybe 5+ minutes. by the time they’re gone, my sweet tooth is often more than satisfied. nowadays it’s just one little square after dinner and that’s plenty. trick is to be aware of it, eat it slowly, savor it, resist the urge to chew, and appreciate how sweet it is. also go for something like dark chocolate for all the flavinoids.
Devon
July 14th, 2008
2:10 pm
UPDATE: My hubby lost 7 pds on this diet on his first week, i lost 4, I tend to consume too many veggies LOL, Oh and I chew Devon, so I guess I get calories. Thats so wild eating chocolate and not chewing, you dont gain weight? I really felt bloated all week, but Sunday was our splurge day we went out to eat also had icecream woke up Today Mon feeling lighter??? I guess the legumes do keep you filled up? We also are working out, ya feel better, and sleep bedtter!And its good for skin toning after losing weight:) I see this thread kinda dies out? We dont eat the pizza tho, really feel too full after having dinner, I couldnt imagine sitting eating a pizza everynite after working out then a glass of wine? To each its own whatever works, Hang in there, Kimmie
July 15th, 2008
11:46 am
Hello to Everyone (and Tim),
Stumbled upon the website a couple weeks ago and decided to go for it! I wanted to get a quick “jumpstart”, so I began with the “Fruit Flush Diet”, last week, which lasted 3 days (bascially, protein shakes Day 1 and fruit every 2 hours for the last 2 days) to guarantee that I flush out toxins and ready to comsume lots of protein. I went from 268 lbs. to 259. The next day (Saturday) was my “Cheat Kick-off Day” and I ate…oh, carbs galore mostly (’cause I’m a carb-hound). I weighed in at 263 lbs. Sunday morning, which was ok, since I knew some was water-weight that I had dropped.
Sunday morning, I got started on this diet. I’m pretty jazzed that now on Tuesday, I’ve gone down to 257 as of this morning. Like Kimbeh (maybe it IS a “girl thing”), I decided to make things exciting in the limited menu given.
One of my favorite discoveries is cuban cuisine–case in point–I had refried black beans mixed with green chiles, mixed slaw (purple and green) with Annie’s Shitake & Mushroom vinagrette (2 tbs) and lean pork cops. I also mixed lean ground beef with veggie chili (with more black beans added). I might add that I use Amy’s Organic products, so that I was able to have the refried beans because it had, “ORGANIC BLACK BEANS, FILTERED WATER, ORGANIC ONIONS, ORGANIC BELL PEPPERS, ORGANIC TOMATOES, ORGANIC HIGH OLEIC SAFFLOWER AND/OR SUNFLOWER OIL, SEA SALT, ORGANIC GARLIC, ORGANIC GREEN CHILES, SPICES.”–all vegan ingredients.
I also use sea salt for flavoring and freshly-ground black pepper. Sea salt is documented as being far more healthy that table-salt, which is bleached with chlorine. Sea salt is not only natural, it is minimally processed and contains trace minerals that are good for you. I highly recommend Celtic Sea Salt, which is grey (from the minerals) and adds flavorful complexity to the food. True sea salt I might add, is NOT white.
I also try to plan a little my meals that require little to no prep time. For example, since it is full summer here in AZ, salad is my friend and easily fulfills the “mixed-veggie requirement”. Try to get mixed-blends that contain either radicchio, romaine,baby-greens, or butter-lettuce blends in the bag–NO iceberg! The rule of thumb is that the more colorful your greens are, the better. A really good salad I like is mixed-greens with grape tomatoes and a pouch of water-packed tuna on top, with ground pepper and the vinagrette. Takes like less-than 5 minutes tops to put together. I also marinate my organic and/or natural meats with a mixture of extra-virgin olive oil, wine, and fresh garlic, patting the meat dry before I pan-grill it. I also use olive oil and/or grapeseed oil to cook with–both very healthy fats that are essential for metabolic health.Cooking spray helps too, since I lightly coat the pan and then add a very small amount of the above-mentioned oils.
I want to add that I am very aware nutritionally of how to feed my body, but hadn’t the “time”. Thus, I ate horribly this past year (I am a teacher) in response to stress of first-year teaching and re-gained weight I had lost last summer. I have a long-term goal of getting to about 180 lbs, which is about spitting-distance to my old weight of 155 lbs. about 20 years ago. I am 42 years old (43 in about 3 weeks) and am 5′ 6″, with a rather large frame for a woman. This means that I am heavier than I appear, although unfortunately, I tend to gain weight around the stomach and breasts (an “apple”, as opposed to a “pear”…*sigh*…) I plan to add Pilates in a week or two and am doing about 20 minutes on the treadmill as of today. I also want to say to those trying to do this that I commend your courage and quest to become healthier. I will corroborate TIm here and stress that organics ARE the way to go in eating and that minimally-processed is best. Try to consume wild-caught fish as opposed to farm-raised–ladies, especially you on that one. Drink pure bottled or reverse-osmosis water and avoid foods with high-fructose corn syrup at all costs (Stevia is your friend and so is Splenda!). Read your labels. Try to eat locally-grown produce, which is cheaper. Try to shop at health-food markets like Whole Foods, Wild Oats, Henry’s, etc., which will make it a lot easier to stick to the plan, with the added bonus of having nutritionally-trained staff to help you make good food choices and provide free recipe ideas. A multi-vitamin is also recommended, preferably a whole-food vitamin as opposed to sythentic. EFA’s will also help (Essential Fatty Acids, like flaxseed and fish oils) and are easier to assimilate via supplement form (I like Sunhealth Total EFA). Finally, understand that the 20 lbs is most-likely initial in the first month, but you CAN still lose steadily though more slowly with this plan. It takes work, but in the end it’s SO worth it.
I know I’m gonna make it…and you will, too!
July 15th, 2008
9:07 pm
How many Mexican restaurants in the US offer grass-fed organic beef? Or in California alone?
July 16th, 2008
7:28 am
@JT – Not sure what the total number of Mexican restaurants offering grass-fed organic beef, but the Chipotle’s chain makes a point of marketing themselves via serving organic beef, pork and chicken. Pretty tasty and you don’t have to have rice (I know, there’s one on the corner from work).
July 16th, 2008
4:13 pm
Suzanne – I cannot tell you what you are missing because, again, I do not know how much of the blog article/post you’ve actually read, but I would like to help. From your first post, it is obvious that you did not read Rule #1, specifically “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.”
You probably skimmed over the very first part of the page also: “It is possible to lose 20 lbs. of bodyfat in 30 days by optimizing *ANY* of three factors: exercise, diet, or drug/supplement regimen.” – you choose which of the 3, Tim’s article assumes it’s DIET, in which case exercise and supplements do not matter.
What I can say is this, plenty of people have lost weight without exercising by following the outlined plan, as long as they do it right. I am 6’2″ 168lbs, and even I’m losing weight right now without exercising. No one I talk to thinks I have any weight to lose, but I am doing this to achieve definition in my abdominal muscles, which I will probably accomplish within by the end of this month. My job is time-consuming, so I don’t have any time to exercise, and thus I don’t, and neither am I allowed to eat pizza because of this (for 6/7 of the week, at least). The list of allowable food items is broken down between vegetables, legumes, and proteins in Tim’s article also – it DOES NOT include pizza, because it is to be used for those of us who choose not to exercise. The point is, if you want to eat pizza, you have to do resistance workouts, and if you do resistance work, it is ok, probably even advised, that you have some carbs within an hour or so of when you’re done.
Tim and anyone else, feel free to correct me if I am wrong…
July 16th, 2008
6:42 pm
I’ve lost 15 pounds on this diet so far, but I’ve only lost 5$ in the last 2 weeks. I eat about half to 3/4 pound of beef or ham a day, plus a can of refried beans and a can of English peas, along with a little hard cheese (cheddar, for instance) and maybe a spoon of sour cream. That’s all I eat, but I’m not losing near the 20# in 30 days. Any ideas? FYI, I’m 5’9, male, and 205 as of today, down from 220.
July 16th, 2008
6:42 pm
That was 5#, not 5$.
July 16th, 2008
7:03 pm
For the question about the sweet tooth, the best thing I have found is sugar free jello. Its cheap, sweet and has basically nothing in it. And if you want to mix it up, you can use fat free reddi whip which is also almost nothing!
July 16th, 2008
11:36 pm
Starting this diet on Monday (7/21)
And I have a few questions:
1- Is any sort of seafood acceptable in this diet? If so what kinds?
2- I hate lentils! I need some really gooood recipes to make me swallow them any ideas?
3- What is the difference between beef and grass-fed beef?
4- Is lean bacon acceptable?
5- what are some of your meal plans?
6- Are there any limits on the “cheat day”?
- Thanx for Ur Help! <3
July 18th, 2008
1:18 am
sup i’m freshyip,
i’m gonna try whatever you wrote above, i’m 23, 167cm and 69.3kg (153lbs) and i am sick of this happening. lately my family doctor says that i’m falling into the path of obesity since i do no exercise and especially from all that excessive drinking i am constantly exposed to. i’m gonna try your steps above and see what’s up; i really wanna look hot again and don’t want them ladies just walk pass me as if i’m nothing lol… =(
July 18th, 2008
10:10 pm
@JT:
Karl’s right: Chipotle Mexican Grill is a great way to stay on the plan. They offer a “Burrito Bol”, which are burrito ingredients w/o the tortilla. The meats they use are minimally-processed, all-natural–even the cheese and sour cream is from cows without the rBGH growth hormone. The carnitas are especially good. The guacamole is freshly-made, which you can easily get on the side. There’s enough ingredients in the dish to make 2 servings which means it’s easy to go overboard, but the food is really delicious!
July 19th, 2008
9:17 pm
[...] we are one week into Tim’s lifestyle hack diet of low or slow carbs and already 3 kgs lighter (both) which is pretty amazing loss for one week. Before you ask, [...]
July 19th, 2008
9:29 pm
First of all, great diet. Been using it on and off, here and there. I’ve been back on for the last six days and have lost six pounds. But I leave out the beans from my meals and eat protein(s) and vegetables only. This really works for me.
However, I have a concern about gaining weight from the “day off”. The last time I had my day off from this diet was, obviously, when I was last on it. I gained about 3 pounds from that day alone. This sort of ruined my efforts from earlier in the week, a period of 6 says during which I lost 5 pounds. Any ideas/responses??
July 20th, 2008
6:05 am
i read this article about dieting and it catched my attention.i’m not fat but kinda chubby, i’m interested to try everything you wrote. i hope i’ll get good results. and by the way, is there any border or limit in “dieters gone wild day”??
thanks!
-jm :)
July 20th, 2008
10:56 pm
I’ve been following this plan for 5 weeks and what can I say – it’s been the best way to lose weight that I’ve ever tried. After three weeks my friends were commenting on how much weight I’d lost, and at this point all my clothes fit great again.
Mexican, mexican, mexican. It is the key to my staying on this plan. Also, a handful of nuts periodically throughout the day is great too.
One thing I’ve noticed is that I have so much more energy on my runs – it’s incredible!
After about a week on this plan, I stopped craving “white foods” which is something I never thought would happen. So for those of you suffering withdrawal, stick to it – it passes.
July 21st, 2008
6:24 am
Avoiding the ‘white stuff’ is one of the best tips. I like to tell people to think of white carbohydrate sources as ‘glue’.
White bread, white flour, white rice, white potatoes…essentially turns into a ‘glue’ of sorts in your stomach. White starches will only make most people fatter…there are just way too many other better carb choices, like the ones you have mentioned.
July 21st, 2008
10:49 am
On day 6 of this diet (I’m 23, female, 5’5 and 150 lb). I’ve lost 2 lb so far and I’m happy for it. I’ve also gone to the gym 3 times for at least 50 minute cardio sessions, and I try to add 20-30 minutes strength training also.
I’m not progressing as much as other people it seems, but I’ll stick to the diet and hope I lose more than 2lb per week :) I do notice I have more energy, though I’m rather cranky because of carb withdrawal.
I’ve noticed how often when I want to snack how I reach for something unhealthy! If anything I hope sticking with this diet will change my habits even if I don’t lose more than 2lb a week.
July 21st, 2008
4:06 pm
Yeah..could be good advice..except you need to make sure you still get your viatims and minerals your body needs on an ongoing daily basis.
July 22nd, 2008
2:07 am
After reading this site and most of the comments posted here (I spent a LOT of time reading these comments!) I became quite excited and decided to give this “diet” a try. I never realized just how many carbs I consumed in an average day until I read this site. David is so right — white carbs should be thought of as glue! With this new insight in hand, I feel confident I have found a plan that I can stick with and will see some real results.
Today was only day one for me, but I discovered just how wonderful these foods can taste with a little imagination! I have never been a big carb fan in the morning so cutting out cereal or toast wasn’t a problem for me. I made a veggie omelette with fresh spinach and zucchini and relished every bite. Imagine my excitement and amazement upon discovering that turkey bacon has virtually no carbs and is low in fat and calories! Tomorrow’s omelette will be even more savory than today’s.
I noticed a lot of females asking about other women’s success with this plan as there seems to be a mostly male perspective. I will frequently post my progress and gladly answer any questions anyone may have about my daily menus, if that will help anyone who is interested.
Thanks to everyone who takes the time to answer the questions posted here — many of my questions were answered as well because of it!
Wish me luck and I will keep you posted!
July 22nd, 2008
8:30 am
Why aren’t fruits incorporated into the diet?
July 22nd, 2008
7:24 pm
KK brings up a valid point about women who are on this plan. I have noticed that some women are posting that they are not getting the same results as the men. I think there are some things worth mentioning–the first of which is that women have a different physiology than men do. We have a lot of things that affect our ability to lose weight and unfortunately, Mother Nature is NOT on our side.
Biologically, women are “wired” to retain weight in order to nourish their children. They also needed stamina to carry the babies and gather edible plants (‘cos sometimes those big mammoth hunts took days!). Although food is quite plentiful these days, our biology has changed little in this regard.
There is also the factor of (close your eyes, guys!) Menstruation, Pregnancy, Menopause, and all the stuff in between. Fluctuatiing hormones account for bloating and ft-retention, and willingly aid our dear Mother Nature in refusing to shed weight. This means that results are mixed. And makes it hard picturing losing weight realistically. I well remember when I was in my 20′s and was about 155 lbs @ 5′ 6″. So at an above-average height, coupled with a large skeletal frame, I was in reality pretty much where I needed to be. I worked out 3 times a week with both weights and aerobics and was healthy. I had no car, so I walked about around a lot or took the bus. But…that’s not what I saw then. All I saw was a “pooch” in my midsection, no matter how many crunches I did; breasts that refused to flatten (I was a large-cup size) and a host of other imperfections. I failed to see…
Well, I’m 42 now, and understand things a bit better. I looked at my photos the other day and was astounded at how skinny I was 20 years ago! So the realist in me wants to shed the weight, only now…if I can lose enough to put me within 20 lbs of my old weight, then that’s a victory I can live with.
All I want now is to be healthy…
July 25th, 2008
8:18 am
Im very interested in your diet, and I can get use to eating the same things, in fact I’ve been eating oatmeal for breakfast every morning, is this a bad thing. Does this fall under the bad white carb you mentioned?
July 25th, 2008
8:00 pm
The only way to keep your health is to eat what you don’t want, drink what you don’t like, and do what you’d rather not.
– Mark Twain
This is one amazing blog posting. Over a year old and still growing!
I just found it last week and have decided to give this “way of eating” a try. I have been stunned at how easy and rewarding it has turned out to be. Nothing I have tried in years has come even close.
I am a 58 year old man, weighing in at 256 lbs. when I started Tim’s “diet” a week ago. I have battled with weight and dysfunctional eating most of my life. I also have AD/HD (just diagnosed last September). AD/HD contributes to the fact that I can’t get my eating under control because, until now, there were just too many exciting, distracting food choices, even on a “restricted diet”. What I really like about Tim’s eating plan is that the need to make constant choices has been virtually eliminated.
I love getting up every morning and making the same delicious breakfast every day. The overwhelming decisions are gone. These are all foods I really like. I use Antipasto mix with my egg whites instead of salsa. Yummy!
One of the symptoms of AD/HD is that boredom can set in quickly – I need to be stimulated to keep interested. So, I worried that I would quickly tire of pretty much the same meals every day. Surprisingly, that hasn’t happened yet. I suspect it’s because the benefits are so reinforcing.
Another big plus for me has been the big increase in energy that I have experienced. No more sugar highs and crashes. My productivity has more than doubled and I find that I can stay focused much longer.
Tomorrow is my first “binge-out” day. I think it will be fun but I am actually going to miss the un-stressful daily regimen of this eating plan.
Don’t you just love Tim Ferris!
July 25th, 2008
8:23 pm
Hey guys, I have been reading about this diet and all the comments, and have come to question if this would work for me. I am a 200lb/6′ hockey goalie and karate student, and 17 years old. I have noticed in the past month that I have been gaining some weight and eating horribly (which is probably why I am gaining weight). While this diet sounds very effective, would I be able to be as active as I am, and not be completely fatigued after workouts? Also, what could I substitute for certain things such as the wines, since I am underage and cannot legally drink those types of beverages, and what other vegetables would be acceptable? I dislike spinach and asparagus, but I can tolerate peas. Thanks in advance.
July 25th, 2008
10:00 pm
I followed a similar eating plan late last year and lost a great deal of weight in 6 weeks (not an impressive 4 weeks like you Tim!); however, I was eating one to two servings a day of the higher glycemic carbs (long grain brown rice, slow cooked oatmeal, or fruit). Also, I occasionally allowed myself 2 tbl. spoons of sliced nuts in one of my meals. I also devoured a buch of crap on my cheat day.
When I started my regimen, I weighed 165 lbs and I’m only 5’4. I got down to 140 in 6 weeks. During the 6 weeks I started strength training to build muscle and did light cardio to aid in my weight loss. I don’t know how much muscle I gained and how much fat I loss, but the results were fantastic. My eating program wasn’t as restrictive and I had to exercise to get these kind of results.
On a side note, I challenge you on the rice issue. A 1/2 cup of COOKED rice has around 150 to 170 calories (depending on the kind of rice and if it’s processed, etc.). A 1/2 cup of UNCOOKED or RAW rice has 300+ calories.
July 26th, 2008
11:06 am
mmm an omelet with black beans and salsa. what a GREAT idea!
Actually, the bean idea is great. You can buy a bag of dry beans and with this diet it will last for a few days after cooked. Brilliant.
July 26th, 2008
2:39 pm
this post is slightly misleading… you say “how to lose weight… without doing any exercise” but then exercise is clearly part of the equation. oh well. at least it got me reading…
July 27th, 2008
3:36 am
I was wondering about the beans. How many cans do most of you go though in a day? I would assume it’s at least 2 to fill in all your meals. Any suggestions?
Thank You
July 27th, 2008
12:44 pm
Ok, I feel like I have read hundreds of posts, and I even used the ctrl-f function to find what I needed and didn’t see it anywhere. So, if this is repeated, I apologize.
What types of sauces/marinades are allowed for use on the chicken or pork? I’ve only been doing this a few days and I know I’m going to get tired of straight grilled chicken. I don’t want to add too many seasonings because salt will just make me retain water (plus it’s bad for you obviously). I know barbeque sauce is full of sugar but I won’t lie, I’ve used it. Is this ok in moderation?
Also, does anyone have suggestions for reasonable snacks? Reasonable meaning they won’t require as much prep as all of the meals do.
Thanks for your help and good job everybody!
July 27th, 2008
6:08 pm
@Jenny,
I typically use either thick salsa (often has beans, corn, etc.) or “Montreal steak rub/seasoning”. In moderation — a thin coat and not dripping off — BBQ sauce will do minimal damage. I am a sucker for the occasional baby back ribs :)
Good luck!
Tim
July 28th, 2008
1:43 am
[...] Carb may not be the right thing to call it really. When I first read about it on the Four Hour Workweek Blog, he called it a slow carb [...]
July 29th, 2008
8:23 am
Hello Everyone
I’ve been following this plan for about a week or so and I love it. I had a baby back in 06 and I lost about 40lbs of baby weight. Now I am 154lbs, my goal weight is to be around 135. I reached a plateau, I can’t lose weight easily anymore. Ever since following this plan my waist has gotten smaller, my muscles are toned, and I have a lot more energy. I am never hungry and I don’t crave junk food at all. I don’t know how much I weigh since started this eating plan. I will keep you posted.
July 29th, 2008
12:53 pm
I was really psyched when I first read this article but after following the diet perfectly for a week and a half and losing no weight my entusiasium is gone. I’m a 20 year old female, I think this diet may not work as well for women since alot of women on here seem to not see the same results as the men. I’m not really sure what else the problem could be since I did plently of exercise(cardio for 45mins & then weights for 5 days a week, and plently of walking on weekends). I ate only what I was supposed to(except on the 1 free day a week). I hope everyone else has better luck than I did.
July 29th, 2008
8:55 pm
Started this diet yesterday. After 2 days I can already see a difference. I will check back in later.
July 30th, 2008
4:07 am
Hi Puck,
I am also female, and am just starting this diet again as I was on holidays and had visitors so I couldn’t stick rigidly to it the past few weeks. However when I did I deffinitely lost weight, but not near as much as the guys are reporting. I was loosing about 2 lb per week, not a 1lb a day! But it really showed around by middle which is one area I wanted to loose it. I am trying to loose about 14lbs, so started again today. so dont give up yet, I think it may take a couple of weeks for it to show. And I dont think that ‘free day’ is a good idea after only a week. That is probably why you didn’t notice the weight loss. I think the free day should only be to have something different like some fruit or a slice of bread, but not going mad as Tim suggest. That is just glutteny, everything in moderation! I think just have a few biscuits or some small treat, but not gorging on sugar and pizza. The idea is to loose weight and adjust your eating habits. Give it another go, dont go mad on your day off and get back on track next day.
Amy
July 30th, 2008
6:08 am
Tim,
Thank you for replying directly to my question! I know you are very busy and I really appreciate the help. Thanks again!
July 30th, 2008
6:57 am
Thanks so much for this article! I am trying a diet very similar to this one, that incorporates high protein and slow carbs. It does allow for 1-2 whole wheat/whole grain carbs (bread, pasta, etc) per day. And also a “day off” to eat whatever I want.
I’m wondering, does anyone know if this is a safe diet in the long-run? I know there were some health concerns with high protein diets. Can a person like myself – who has about 100 lbs to lose – safely use this diet for a long period of time? At a good rate of weight loss (2 lbs per week) could a person use this diet safely for a year? Or perhaps make it a “lifestyle” or incorporate more carbs slowly after getting to their goal weight?
Thanks again!
July 30th, 2008
7:16 am
I have been on a modified version of this diet for about 8 months now, and I can proudly say I’ve went from 319 pounds, to 238 pounds :). I basically followed this diet, but took into account “Calorie cycling” which for 4 days you eat 15% below your Metabolic basal calorie needs. Then for 3 days you spike 5% above it. I’ve been doing 45 min to 75 min of cardio, along with weight lifting. I also bought a bowflex.
My goal is to get down to 215 pounds, wish me luck.
*I also got a girl friend, I love you baby! :)
July 30th, 2008
2:36 pm
Maybe I have skipped while reading comments, but I have question of few foods–whether they’re okay foods.
1) If fruit okay to eat? Or just the “Dieters Gone Wild” day? I frequently eat fruits like peach, banana, plum, etc.
2) Tortilla? I usually have burrito at the Mexican joint.
3) Yogurt? I usually have low-fat.
4) Noodle? Being Asian, this is one of the thing I really need to know. Too bad a rice is out in the first place.
July 30th, 2008
3:19 pm
Great diet ideas, no suffering or feeling deprived, healthy and they all seem like quick and easy ideas, thanks so much and congrats on a really SUPER blog site!
July 30th, 2008
3:52 pm
I love this diet, I did not know how much I would enjoy it, I tried it for 3 days before, then 3 days again, I have a husband and 5 kids so it makes it harder for me tho I am learning I can cook my stuff on Sunday for the week almost, however, I have 1 1/2 weeks to do this with no one home and I am looking forward to it, even if its just 2 lbs!
July 30th, 2008
8:04 pm
i will do your diet for 30 days and i will tell you if it works.
July 31st, 2008
6:53 am
here’s a new update – 15+ weeks after start:
I’m still adhering to most of the reccomended foods, w/ the primary change from pre day 1 being not eating WHITE carbs…save for the occaisonal pizza slice or french fries & Coke (high fructose corn syrup – which is B A D !) on my “day off” (Sat).
I began weight training 5+ weeks ago & am supplementing w/ protien powder & creatine – sticking w/ whole foods mainly, high in protien & slow carbs. I’ve actually gained 7 lbs (due to muscle weight) from my last post – leaned down a bit, but not dramatically. Still feel great – maybe even look a bit better…comfortable in my skin again. Went to a restaurant opening last night, sampled a few items I wouldn’t normally eat daily but don’t have any “guilt” feelings over it (maybe 10 bites total, it was fun, & great to get out to an event like that!) – food cravings have been removed (for the most part, not always) and I’m rarely hungry.
the 20+ lbs initial weight loss is still off, plus an estimate of another 15+ lbs replaced by muscle (& repositioned on my frame…), so, I’m considering this a pretty good success.
How’d I “stick with it”?
I did it 24 hours at a time. They start to add up…
Keep up the good work —
July 31st, 2008
11:01 am
I have posted a couple of times before but I wanted to give an update.
My wife and I are still on the diet and still losing weight. We both started on March 24th 2008 and she has lost 36lbs and I have lost 42lbs. I started lifting weights twice per week in June (trying Tim’s work out) and I feel and look like I have lost even more. I started out at 298 and I am now down to 256. I don’t really utilize my free days much anymore because I just don’t feel hungry for the carbs although I did get off the diet for a week while I went camping. Good luck everyone.
July 31st, 2008
2:06 pm
Thanks for all the information here. I’m going to give this ago and see what kind of results I get. Did you workout routines consist of an emphasis on cardio or weight training?
August 1st, 2008
3:02 am
Hey, all. First I would like to thank all those who have started this diet and left comments because it helped me decide to give this a go.
Started this eating style July 1. Here are the results for the first month.
Started at 198 as a 5’10″ male, 33 years old. I felt really fat at this weight as I had been 185 back in 2005, 175 2002. My weight in high school was 160 when I was a runner and athlete.
So July 31st I weighed in at 185 lbs! That is a weight loss of 13 lbs which doesn’t sound great but I definitely added some lean muscle as well as I do Tim’s weight-lifting twice a week and run 2 miles most days. So I would estimate I lost at least 15lbs of fat.
The really cool thing is I lost all the weight I had gained in 3 years of eating crap. This month I plan to lose another 10+ lbs of fat and continue to add lean muscle.
Now for comments on other things. I follow Tim’s plan very closely other than adding a slice of cheese or using a little olive oil with meals. I do this because that little bit helps me keep going as I also upped my cardio a lot.
Typical meals:
Lean hamburger patty wth slice of melted mozzarella (60 cals)
black beans
Green beans, red onions, and green peppers sauteed in a small amount of olive oil (all from local farmers market)
This is my highest calorie meal and I feel full for hours.
Chicken breast with roasted garlic salsa
steamed broccoli
refried beans
The one thing I can’t do is eat 4 meals a day, I am only doing 3 with a night mini-meal if need be.
The biggest changes aren’t the hard numbers but the visuals. When taking a shower I can see what this diet is doing and that’s the most important thing. Pants that were tight on me are loose now after 30 days. I am already eyeing all the clothes I will be able to wear again in 2 more months.
If anyone is reading this and is unsure I say go for it. You won’t lose by cutting the refined grains and sugars in your diet and you will find the lbs flying off. Set a goal and do it. My first month my goal was 185 lbs and last day of the month I hit it on the nose.
August 1st, 2008
8:52 am
Hi Tim and everyone!
I too started this diet July 1st and the results are in!
I am a female 5′ 11” and on July 1st i weighed 175
Now today i weigh…………150lbs!!! My goal is to be 140
i didnt excercise at all but my job has been pulling me a part and i think that was a big factor. also instead of taking the esclators or elevators i always took the stairs. Also i didnt have a cheat day.. i did the first two weeks but it was too hard for me the next day to go back to lean chicken.
I’m still going to continue to follow this diet and i’m going to start jogging in the morning so i can be a bit more toned.
very happy with this diet!
Thank you TIM!
August 3rd, 2008
3:47 pm
Hey TIm
First of all, thanks for writing this article. I was eating something really similar to this for about a month and saw some results, this month i am going to try your methods and see how it goes. Here is what i’ll be eating: please do criticize and advice.
Breakfast:(Around 8:30 am)
scrambled egg (or Boiled egg)
Black beans
mixed vegetables
Lunch one (around 1 pm)
Chicken Salad
Lentils
LUNCH 2(around 4 pm)
1 chicken breast, lentils and mixed vegetables
Dinner(around 8pm after workout)
Vegetables and a protein shake
Now i do have a couple of questions
1. How do you prepare your lentils? When i make lentils i add alot of different kind of spice, basil and onion
2. What does your ‘sports training” consist off? is it mostly cardio ? etc
Thanks
August 5th, 2008
7:11 pm
is it okay to eat steak while on this diet?
August 6th, 2008
5:49 am
Hello everyone,
I’m 21 years old and have been on this diet for a week now. I began moderate dieting and exercise at the beginning of July and went from 220 lbs. down to 209 lbs. Mostly water weight and a little body fat. After contemplating whether to go on this diet for a couple of weeks, I decided to go for it.
I had been in shape throughout high school and freshman year of college. Gained a lot of weight after that year and then took it off to about 190 and close to 10% body fat. Then last November I broke my ankle and subsequently got incredibly lazy and ate of a lot of fast food.
After a week on this diet, I went from 209 lbs down to 200 lbs and went from a 36 waist down to a 34 waist. This diet definitely works. There weren’t really any times when I felt hungry or deprived. It also gave me a lot more energy for weight-lifting and cardio. I am really looking foward to my cheat day! My target weight is 178 lbs. But for this month I think 185-190 is a good goal. I would recommend this diet to anyone who is looking to lose weight in a healthy way.
In addition to this diet, I take a multi-vitamin in the mornings.
Thanks Tim and everyone else who posted their experiences here. They really helped me decide to go on this diet.
August 6th, 2008
7:27 am
Tim,
I’m curious…why the specificity on the type of beans and vegetables? Are red beans and broccoli prohibited for example?
Thanks in advance,
Steve
August 6th, 2008
8:49 am
You need to buy Ketosis sticks at GNC or vitamin world if you are going to do this diet. As weird as it sounds, you pee on the sticks to make sure it is FAT you’re using as energy.
the point he left out is, instead of using carbs for energy, you use the fat in your body. One day a week i also have a “Carb up day” where i eat lots of bread :)
by the way, cheese can be eaten too.
August 6th, 2008
10:00 am
Just to confirm, on cheat day. I can literally eat anything right? Ice cream, candy bars, foods higher in fat and sodium content than the norm?
Thanks in advance.
August 6th, 2008
11:15 am
[...] I’m trying a version of the Slow Carb Diet this month, or at least for a few weeks. Thanks to Tim Ferriss for the diet idea. [...]
August 6th, 2008
4:33 pm
Hi Tim!
I too, did the diet and lost a solid 20 pounds in just under a month by choosing gems from each of the food groups listed above. I took a little bit of liberty substituting some legumes for others, but that was it. (Talk about winning the “pull my finger” game) Succinct, informative and effective. Thank you.
What helped me most, and I’m ashamed to stay, was the jumpstart of having been dumped. I didn’t feel like eating for awhile, so taking scoops of beans, broccoli, etc. from the salad bar at work, eyeballing the portion size for adaquacy, and sending the items down the hatch, regardless of flavor or fun was the key. As soon as I began to notice results, I gained momentum, and returned to exercise–something that had been sorely missing since I started that 12+ hour a day desk job, which I also quit in my new streamlined grandiose fashion, another story…
If anyone does happen to read this, please know that I am a true advocate and needed little more than the advice listed above and a new pair of runners. Cheers
So thanks again.
August 6th, 2008
10:39 pm
@Jason,
Yes, you can eat anything you want — in any quantity — on Saturdays. I tend to go nuts every 1 of 4 weeks and eat so much I get nearly sick, which makes me moderate the other 3. I love Snickers, TimTams, bear claws (and all pastries), and ice cream.
Enjoy :)
Tim
August 7th, 2008
2:45 pm
Hello Everyone:
I’ve been on this diet for 1 week, and I’ve lost 6.5 pounds, and I feel terrific! Sleep and motivation are all even better!
I’m currently hovering around 150-155 at 5’6″, and have bet myself that I’d lose 30-40 lbs. by 40; I’m 38.5 years old at present…). Perhaps it’s easier for me since I’m a huge fan of beans and steamed veggies, of all kinds (but Lordy, I miss my potatoes–esp. being an Idaho gal!). This dealie also works well with crock pot cooking, for prepping on Sundays for the week (and peeps, a small note: those of you who are very busy, 1 hour up earlier or staying up late 1-2 nights a week, Ziploc baggies + recycled cottage cheese containers, hard-boiled eggs, and your freezer are your best friends. Prep, prep, prep!), and you don’t have to do anything–just let it cook.
And, doing one cardio activity 3 times a week (heck, do 3 different ones: swim one day, speed walk the next for 45 minutes.And walk/bike to work, if you can) + 1-3 days of lifting (only do speed-ifting with supersets)/ week, you will tremendously move the weight loss process along. I’m even barely starting to see my arm and tummy muskles starting to peek out… fun!
I had already started a workout program 2 weeks ago (cardio and weights/resistance bands), and I stopped eating processed food (except feta cheese, green tea, and wine) 2 months ago, but this is really boosting that weight loss factor. Best advice: refuse to use the word “diet”; this mentality is for life! Second, remember that being your true weight tastes better than being unhealthy.
But I have a question for Tim: is drinking veggie juice okay? I’ve got the low sodium V8, and I love to chug a cup of that stuff first thing in the morning, about 30-45 minutes before my workout (Oh, and if you take Tim’s “wine” suggestion a bit too libatiously, helps hangovers– ha ha).
Second, instead of bacon–which is my absolute fave–how about uncured pork strips cut like bacon (just a stripat a time, since they are thick) for either part of a meal, such as on a salad or in the eggs in the morning–will this upset my weight loss apple cart?
Thank you SO much for posting this info; it’s changing my health and life in the best direction, ever!
I’m gonna keep you peeps posted; by September 12th, I predict I will have made my goal. I’ll keep track too, on my blog: The Clumsy Napkin Chronicles on blogspot. THE BEST OF LUCK TO EVERYONE!
FunChick37
August 7th, 2008
8:13 pm
Hi Tim! I love your diet!
Just had a question: Do you recommend continuing this diet after the 30 days and 20 lb-loss? Would you continue losing weight or would the effectiveness of this diet eventually wear off? Thanks so much!
August 7th, 2008
10:16 pm
Thanks Tim,
Going to the store to load up on some junk food for Sat. to munch while I watch the Olympics.
August 8th, 2008
3:43 am
Tim,
This is a monster thread!
Just started on the above – would porridge be ok for breakfast do you think?
CB
August 8th, 2008
9:51 am
Hi, I read about this diet plan and am really impressed. I want to start on it from tomorrow… but hold on… tomorrow seems to be a Saturday and since Saturdays are recommended as “Dieters Gone Wild” day, I think I rather start my diet from Monday! Is that ok Tim?
August 8th, 2008
10:54 pm
i was wondering how would this change if im a vegetarian cause i cant eat any meats and is there any options like veggie organic food ok too?
August 9th, 2008
9:14 am
Great article: simple to read and to take. And… FOR FREE.
What about fruit? There is any restricition?
August 9th, 2008
2:48 pm
Unknownnn:
Are you strictly veggie? Some still eat eggs, and if you do, then eat them as “meat.” Also, tofu, veggie or black bean “burger” patties, and portobello mushrooms (actually, just the plain old white ‘shroom has the most protein), work to give you protein in your diet. And nuts; toss a handful of almonds or salt-free peanuts into your dishes–yum!
Good luck!
August 9th, 2008
5:42 pm
For those of you that are NEW and wondering…
I started this diet In sept 2007 and yesterday I realized my goal of weighing less than 140 lb. I started at 186 lb.
While it was a little slower than he stated, it was definitely easy and effective. It took almost a year, and a few more pounds would not hurt, but it works.
August 10th, 2008
6:51 am
Hmmm, I gained about 1-1.5 kg the morning after my cheat day. I ate a lot of high sodium foods. Should just be water retention weight right?
August 10th, 2008
11:06 am
so, what happens if you dont like lentils and stuff
i’m a very picky eater :(
August 10th, 2008
10:07 pm
I have a question? I notice that there was a mention of a book for this diet.. does anyone know the name. I would like to start as soon as possible I also would like to lose 40lbs. I’ve tried the low-carb diet but I’m always tired. So I stopped.. Someone help
August 11th, 2008
10:50 am
Started this diet today…I’ll keep everyone posted!
August 11th, 2008
5:13 pm
[...] when I first heard of Tim Ferris’ popular article, “How to Lose 20 lbs. of Fat in 30 Days Without Exercising.“ While I read the entire article plus a couple hundred comments following it (as of this [...]
August 11th, 2008
8:32 pm
Hi People,
I read this post about two months ago and I think I read about 1/2 way down. Thanks for all the interesting feed back and comments regarding the meals. I actually started the program and stuck to it for a week, working out at least 30-45 minutes a day. It does work! I ate way more than I usually eat but I still saw a drop in weight every day after the initial 3 days. It is possible!
I’m 5’4, 136lbs and I have a medium frame. I have a 22% body fat right now and I’m gonna give this a go again. You know why? Because I joined one of those bootcamps(for beginners/I’m way out of shape) and the trainer gave me a diet plan EXACTLY LIKE THIS! I couldn’t believe it. AND this guy looks great! So I’m gonna give it a go again and fill you guys/ladies in on it…..
Thanks!
August 11th, 2008
9:05 pm
Starting 2maro I will keep you updated seems like a great plan. Starting weight 240
Mike
August 12th, 2008
8:22 am
Ok so I’m trying this now and being strict about it…is it okay if I season my food and all and don’t eat my veggies boiled??? I’m not adding salt but I think that if I know I’m eating the same things over and over at least cooking them different ways is a be help….I don’t really like Mexican so like I’ll just be cooking my own food….
hopefully once a week up I can report some weight loss….
whoever said take it 24 hours at a time…thank you
August 12th, 2008
12:33 pm
I’m wanting to start some sort of diet, but I cannot seem to find one I like. I do not like to eat generally, and perhaps that is why I always seem to retain calories, but I just have no desire to eat. Would this diet work without the meat in it? I do not eat much meat, though I do like it; I just do not like to have it as a common part of my meals. I would like to lose 40 lbs myself so losing half that in 30 days may be appealing too. I may try this method out, but if it can be refined, even better.
August 12th, 2008
2:29 pm
Dean Karnazes follows the Zone diet by Dr. Sears. I saw his testimonial on the site.
August 12th, 2008
5:32 pm
Been on this program for 8 days. I have lost 11 lbs and feel better than i have in a long time. On my “Day Off” went and had Mexican food, and Blue Bell ice cream that night. Found that the “Bad” food didn’t taste all that great anymore.
Thanks bud
August 12th, 2008
6:10 pm
Hey Tim,
Im talking to you on behalf of my 13year old son. He is about 10 pounds overweight and he is a big time basketball player and needs to shead a few pounds for this next preseson. Is this the right diet for him?
August 13th, 2008
8:54 am
Hey all. I’ve been reading this page for about a month now. I have a friend that’s lost almost 70lbs on this diet. Which has motivated me to try it. I even got my girlfriend doing it.
My current weight is 314lbs. My goal is to get down to 200lbs first. Then maybe go down further from there. I’m 5’8 and I’ve always been overweight. Today is day 3, and I’ve lost 4lbs. I now need to figure out how to incorporate exercise into this because I feel it will definitely help the process move along better.
Good luck to everyone on the diet. I look forward to sharing my results in 30 days :-)
August 13th, 2008
11:57 am
Hi All:
I posted on 8/7, and now I’m almost 2 weeks on this new lifestyle (no saying “diet”–new way of life!), and have lost 8 lbs. now, starting at 150-155, and going to 142. Only 4 more weeks to go, and I should be down to 125 – 130. Plus, I increased cardio since unlike the Atkins Diet, this doesn’t leave you feeling hungry all the time or tired. Whenever I do start to feel hungry but it’s not a meal time yet, I munch on a hardboiled egg, homemade hummus (the key, as there’s no chemicals) and baby carrots, or a few handfuls of nuts (peanuts, almonds), and drink a big beverage, such as water, tea, or sugar and calorie-free drink (such as Crystal Light) if I’m craving taste or sweets. Stuffs you to the gills after being on this for 2 weeks. And as Greg B. stated, seriously, it’s very difficult to get yucky/bad-for-you food down anymore. I had a slice of pizza (good veggies + Canadian bacon on thin crust) yesterday post a heavy workout, and I felt like I ate a bowling ball. Bread = no good. And stay away from any fruit on your “on days”; messes up the tummy. Not even on my “off-day”. And a tip: I LOVE bean with bacon soup, so I took a salt-free hamhock and used white and navy beans (fresh) and pepper + garlic in a crockpot, and it was delish–and had enough to eat 1 meal with it for 4 days!
Good luck to you all, and to everyone who has started, keep posting your results as the are very inspiring. And, keep the tips coming!
*Today is the tomorrow you worried about yesterday, so with each day passing that you put this off, is another day you’d be steppin’ toward healthy!*
August 13th, 2008
12:41 pm
So I’ve been on the diet for two weeks now, lost about 12 lbs, but keep in mind that I am a big time lifter (gym 6 days a week). Today was my cheat day, and wow, I can’t even stand the taste of a burger and shake….it is absolutely amazing, I feel like puking.
I’m 6’1 242, but I’ve never been this lean at this weight. Thanks a lot Tim!
August 13th, 2008
5:30 pm
ok i asked my sons dr. and he said that it was ok and this diet would be the right thing for my son to do for his gut. im looking forward to posting his results. starting weight 196lbs. ending weight ?????
good luck every one
August 13th, 2008
10:18 pm
[...] This will help us all scan comments for the best out there, especially when some posts have more than 1,100 comments. [...]
August 14th, 2008
3:42 pm
hey tim, you should try my new concoction- a plate of chicken salad mixed with a whole avocado!!
Nice!
See you later
August 14th, 2008
5:19 pm
hello again my son lost 1.5 lbs after the first day this diet really works!!! i have suggested this diet to many friends and family.
thanks tim
August 14th, 2008
5:38 pm
this is a stupid question but what is refeeding?
August 14th, 2008
5:41 pm
hello are the suplements you were talking about safe for kids?
August 15th, 2008
6:04 pm
Hey everyone! Okay so I’ve been on this diet for four days now and have lost 2.5 pounds so far, which is pretty good I guess, for me! I just had a few questions.
1. I found out that unless I have 1.5 cups of milk in the morning I get terribly irratable and crave food like crazy do you think this is ok?
2. Are carrots ok on this diet? because I know they have some carbs…
3. I started this on tuesday so should I still have my cheat day on saturday?
4. Should I really go crazy on my cheat day? As in fat, calories, carbs everything? Will I gain the weight back?
5. How many calories should I aim for for weight loss? I’m only 4′ 11″ and weigh 105-110 pounds, I’m pretty sedentary, I’m doing Jillian Michael’s 30-day Shred (it’s like 20 mins of circuit training) every day plus 90 mins of kundalini yoga. So far I’ve been eating 700 to 1,200 calories a day.
Thanks soooo very very much to anyone who takes the time to answer my curious mind hehe
August 15th, 2008
8:41 pm
[...] what I was really looking for. An author named Tim Ferris has a blog entry on his site explaining How to Lose 20 lbs. of Fat in 30 Days… Without Doing Any Exercise. My favorite part is that he doesn’t have a book dedicated to this topic. His book is about [...]
August 16th, 2008
3:01 am
Hi Tim,
this diet sounds great. Nevertheless I had a question:
Is there a limit for losing weight with that diet?
I mean you write that you are eating every day the same vegetables, therefore since you started that diet more than one year ago, you must have lost a lot of pounds: more than 12 months—-> 20*12= 120 pounds lost !!??
August 16th, 2008
8:28 pm
I need help.
I know that this diet is pretty simple when you first look at it,
but I still have a few concerns.
first of all, dairy should be consumed sparingly, right? Well I thought the solution would be soy milk but of course if you read the label it has sugar in it.
I can’t cut out calcium, so I’ve been drinking skim milk twice a day.
Is that going to sabotage my diet?
second, I’ve never had problems eating enough calories in a day… dieting or not. But now, I can barely break 1000, and my goal is 1400-1500.
I’m not even trying to cut them out — I just am so full that I can’t eat any more.
what”s a healthy way to increase calories?
and I know “eat more”.. But really, I don’t know how much more I can eat…
I know, I should just follow it based on the rules listed, but that’s a lot easier said than done I think.
August 17th, 2008
6:56 pm
Tim,
Marry me?
Love,
Rachel
August 18th, 2008
7:26 am
Ella,
The first seven days of the diet I drank one and a half cups of skim milk a day because I found that if I didn’t have a glass of milk in the morning, I would be terribly lethargic the rest of the day. Also because, I too, need my calcium. If you don’t mind calcium supplements that’s always an option for you, but what I do is drink Silk Unsweetened (not plain but unsweetened make sure it says it on the label. It still has the same amount of calcium as regular milk. It still has 4 g of carbs per serving, but of those 1 gram is fiber. I find that it tastes like water and that’s fine, but if you wanna spruce it up a little, it tastes delicious when mixed with a packet of Splenda and some vanilla extract.
Best of luck to you and to all you “slow” carb dieters!
August 18th, 2008
7:50 am
good news every one my son has lost a total of 4 lbs in one week!!!! thanks alot tim my son also says thanks.
192lbs 6’2” age 13
August 18th, 2008
11:25 am
I am down to 183 pounds from the previous 190 from June. I dropped two pants sizes, and I am almost down to a third drop. I upped my cardio to a 5k, 6 days a week in addition to my lifting and hockey sessions 3 times a week each. This week, I am changing my cardio to high intensity interval training, and this should melt the rest of the remaining lower stomach fat I have.
My diet consists mainly of black beans, steamed vegetables, lean meats (rarely beef), hard boiled eggs and iced tea/water. My Saturday cheat days are a spectacle of mass quantities of whatever I want to eat. I usually identify a craving during the week and hammer it on Saturday. The funny thing is…I get full so fast, and feel so terrible because of the sugar infusion that I can’t wait to get back to my normal schedule. However, I literally sweat that entire day because of the caloric spike.
For the first time ever, I have changed my lifestyle and tossed away the notion of a “diet”. I believe that is the key to my success so far. I actually have abs again for the first time in 10 years, and I have almost completely transformed my body because of the hard work and diet Tim suggested. The thing to remember is that motivation, dedication and common sense are the secrets that lay right out in the open for anyone to discover…but you need to commit to it long enough to make the change into a habit.
Unless you have some disability or other preventative condition that will not allow you to effectively exercise and eat properly, I am sad to report that there really is no excuse to not be able to succeed at this. Conquer your mind, and your body will follow.
August 18th, 2008
11:44 am
Lamisa:
Dunno if this will be helpful, but I just finished Week 3 on the diet and am down 12 pounds (if you want some legitimacy to who’s speaking). Maybe this will help due to what I’ve learned
Milk is NOT a good idea; you should wean yourself off of it and drink green tea or water, or even veggie juice with and between meals. We are the only mammals who drink milk past infancy, and is a negative staple to the diet, as it’s loaded with calories and fat. The best bet is soy milk, if you must have that texture, and it’s legume family, which is a large staple to the diet (beans, beans, and more beans!). And if you must have dairy, sprinkle either goat or feta cheese on dishes. They have a strong taste (yum!) and few calories.
Carrots are very good on this diet; they are low in calories and provide a healthy, crunchy snack–esp. with homemade hummus (which rocks over chips n’ dip!). While Tim doesn’t support garbanzo beans as much (high in carbs), I find about 1/2 c. once every couple days doesn’t hurt, and fills you up–esp. if you have an office job where you’re chained to a desk. Also, carrots can be steamed and mixed with other veggies (broccoli and asparagus are still key, however).
Your cheat day is just that: yours. Tim chose a weekend day I would assume because often that’s when people go out of town, out to dinner, etc. My cheat days are Sundays–with football coming up, gotta have beer and chili weenies!
You need to subtract 3500 from your diet per week, which usually adds 1-2 lb. weight loss a week. Keep a food diary. Eat in “cups” (1 c. of veggies, 1 c. of beans and a meat each meal or 1 of either for a snack) to keep track, and work out at least cardio 6 days a week (need to rest muscles at least 1 day). The lbs. aren’t going to “fly off” so fast that you end up emaciated in 20 days; instead, depending upon your meal and workout sked, you will lose weight steadily, but at surprisingly rapid pace. I am still waiting for my “plateau” weight (which you will hit, too, where the weight stops coming off–but if you keep it up, the inches melt, which is a good thing–because you are now more muscle and less body fat!). Then change up the menu, your workouts (I increased cardio and went to a slow burn lift regimen that Tim did–it works!–which knocked off the last 2 lbs. Then I will switch it up again. Not only does it confuse the muscles, but it keeps you from getting bored. Another site I recommend: How to Get 6-Pack Abs, free online).
I hope this helped, and good luck to you!
August 18th, 2008
12:39 pm
I like your comments, Tim. Anyone interested in expanding his or her knowledge of the proper diet should read, The Paleo Diet. I read and adopted the dieting principles a few months ago. I have since lost some fat around my stomach and lost 98% of my acne.
August 18th, 2008
1:33 pm
I have decided to go for it!!!!
I am 47 years old and I have weighed 230-240 (5’9″) for many years.
I just came back from vacation and decided that I need to do something.
I will start slowly with the exercise, but I will change my eating habits immediately.
August 18th, 2008
3:31 pm
Thanks funchick! I have recently switched to soymilk…and eat carrots guiltlessly :) I appreciate the help!
August 18th, 2008
5:13 pm
well I’ve been eating garbanzo beans a lot so It’s good to know that’s not recommended.
and Lamisa, I did switch to unsweetened soy milk. thank you for the suggestion
happy dieting everyone! =]
August 18th, 2008
5:41 pm
Garbanzo beans aren’t “bad”, just don’t sub them for meal stuffs or go overboard. The main reason is the high carbs, and you MUST make it at home–that stuff in the store is loaded with chemicals and preservatives (I have a very busy sked and if I don’t have something on hand like this, I’ll end up eating garbage).
Here’s an easy (and delish recipe) that I made up, and is less fat because of the substitute, peanut butter):
Red Pepper Hummus
1 – 1.5 c. garbanzo beans
1-1.5 c red pepper (to taste)
1 tsp. – tblsp. garlic (don’t like garlic? Try onion)
1 tsp. salt-free peanut butter (instead of tahini paste; try Adams’ peanut butter, all natural)
1 tblsp. olive oil
pinch of pepper
pinch of salt
pinch of paprika
It takes seconds to make in a food processor and can travel in a zip bag or whatevs. I leave a vat of it at the office to get my officemates eating healthy as well, and they love it.
Another crunchy snack:
Peeled cucumbers, sliced longways (about 2-3 cukes)
Drizzle olive oil over them
Sprinkle with salt, pepper and paprika
That’s it–and people LOVE them! (and, can eat with hummus, too)
Good luck, guys! I’m 12 pounds and going, now on Week 4!
FC
August 19th, 2008
4:12 am
Great thread guys. I’ve used this diet to successfully cut my weight prior to MMA fights. Just remember, that whilst you can eat white carbs post exercise, it really does have to be ‘intense’ to qualify! See http://www.rosstraining.com for an ‘intensity’ definition. :D
Just thought I’d leave a word of warning to anyone following Tim’s supplement regime above… took 500mg Niacin last night at bedtime last night no problem. Then took it this morning again with my multivitamin and got a massive heat rash all over my body! I gather this is quite normal when new to the supplement, or as in this case, you overdose slightly.
I’ll be sticking to just the night-time dose with my Gaba and ZMA now…
August 19th, 2008
9:46 am
You’re very welcome Ella!
I feel like quitting this diet, probably because I havent seen any weight loss or inches lost in the last 8 days. I’ve already had a bowl of Mini Wheats – eek!
Any motivation?
August 19th, 2008
9:53 am
I feel like quitting this diet, probably because I haven’t seen any pounds or inches come off in the last 8 days (since I’ve started), the weight I did lose was water weight because I gained it all back after my cheat day. I’ve already had a bowl of Mini Wheats – eek! Any motivation?
Oh and a quick question…I did strength training yesterday and am pretty darn sore today. Should I work out again or give my muscles a break?
August 19th, 2008
8:07 pm
i’m starting this tomorrow and i will stick to it for a few days….let u know who it goes…
josh are you still doing this?
August 20th, 2008
5:18 am
i am on day 3…so far 2 lb, which seems reasonable, considering i cheated and had a tea with milk, and a bite of a muffin….i also ate cheese both days but i didnt know they were off limits….i’ll be good from now on!!
i’m wearing a skirt that i couldnt fit in for 3 years….so yaay!!
August 20th, 2008
12:28 pm
Great article, but I have to say that I think you’d definitely be better off switching from 4 meals per day to 6–it really does make a difference with your metabolism.
Also, I’m kinda concerned that you’re not eating enough fat, this has been shown to slow down your metabolism regardless of meal frequency…Thoughts?
August 20th, 2008
9:51 pm
I lost five pounds!
YAY
took my Diet Gone Wild Day today,
actually want to go back to normal tomorrow.
I feel so fab and just wanted to share my sucess
August 20th, 2008
9:54 pm
and Lamisa my best advice for this to work it to stick to it religiously.
thats when it works best I think.
and this is based on watching my whole family try it
and to monitor calories by the number.
August 21st, 2008
7:02 am
ella, how long did it take you to lose the 5 lb?
August 21st, 2008
7:14 am
i’m on day 4 of the diet, and have lost 2.5 lb…i need to lose 7 more…
i’m losing it very slowlly (compared to others’ results) ….could it be becasue of the fact that i needed to lose 10 pounds to begin with.?…i wonder…
i’ll do this at least for another 3 days and see what happens….
thanks everyone for your positives comments…
August 21st, 2008
9:43 am
i am 13 years old, and i am overweight. i have about 20 lbs to lose to be at an acceptable weight. the thing is, my mom cannot afford organic meats and such. and i cannot stand lentils. or most beans. my mom doesnt even buy beans. so my question is:
how am i supposed to follow your plan?
i dont like broccoli, asparagus, spinach, or brussell sprouts. so what am i supposed to substitute those with?
plus, how can i not eat ANY CARBS AT ALL? i usually have a sandwich at lunchtime. i eat whole wheat bread, so should i work out for 30 minutes before lunchtime?
i really want to follow you plan, but my mom will be pissed if i ask her to buy all that organic food.
also, i am NOT gonna be able to eat the same foods over and over again. will
not eating carbs
eating 4 times a day
eating fruits and vegies
drinking lots of water
help?
August 21st, 2008
7:01 pm
i believe in everything you do but i wonder if i can do any excersise to make it better
August 22nd, 2008
8:24 am
@Sydney
Frist, which is worse for you, your extra 20 pounds or the taste of the foods on this diet for 1 month. If you can’t keep down the foods recommended on the diet then you CANNOT follow it, period.
The only organic food mentioned on the diet is beef. So just each chicken, tuna, eggs, and pork for your protein.
There are many vegetables to choose from besides those you mentioned. Look for a list of veggies on Google, pick some. Beans are pretty nasty if they aren’t seasoned. I tend to spice mine up quite a bit. Learn to use spices.
I’ve been doing this diet very strictly for about 10 days and have dropped about 6 pounds. I’m not sure if I’ve gained any muscle but I have been working out. You can always exercise.
Lastly, you are 13, that’s an awkward age for pretty much everyone. A modified diet and some exercise would be good for you.
August 22nd, 2008
2:06 pm
Sydney:
Jesse has great advice for you, and at your age, getting into healthy eating habits now will only enhance any shooting up in height and naturally losing any weight/see positive changes in your body as you age.
You do not need “organic,” necessarily; organic IS much more expensive, so regular meat and eggs work just fine. Just stay away from fatty red meat (try lean burgers and think thin cuts). Cereal, chips, soda, etc. are all expensive, too, so I’m sure even the tightest budget can be worked around.
As far as the diet’s staples are concerned, you will need to find 1) 1-2 beans that you like; you may find that beans slow-cooked in turkey, chicken, or ham will be quite tasty, especially with spices as Jesse purports, especially pepper. The “fat flavor” from most meats are absorbed, and make for a good broth base and add taste. One cup of that = 1 meal (+ a veggie). If you like chili or refried beans, then create them out of certain beans, which are very cheap, whether canned or fresh. Do you like split pea soup? Homemade, with pork and carrots, and some salt and pepper. Do you like chili? Lean ground turkey with chili, navy, kidney beans, with tomato paste. Just keep looking over the staples and find what you want. As Jesse says, “Google”–same goes for organic recipes.
Last, the veggies. There just HAS to be something that you like, or can handle; most people your age loathe veggies, which is natural. But sprinkling parmesean cheese on SOMETHING you like (peas? spinach? lettuce? cooked cabbage–with pork in it?) helps. And they can be fresh veggies, too (cucumbers, tomatoes, etc.), just make sure you have 1/2-1 cup serving per meal, and not skip them (they help with roughage, as just beans can cause issues, if you catch what I’m sayin’).
Oh, and you should exercise at least 30-40 minutes a day (something to get your heart rate up), 4-6 days a week. That’s what’s really going to get it moving. At your age, the metabolism and energy level should kick in heavily in the 1st week. Really do some research, and perhaps you and your mom can cook together, as this diet REALLY WORKS if you follow it. But if you are a goner as far as what’s offered in the diet (yes, it can be a bit dull, but I find it fun; when’s the last time you ever had broccoli for breakfast? Eating out is amusing), then this one’s probably not for you.
Otherwise, good luck! I’ve lost 12 lbs. in 3 weeks, and counting!
FunChick37
August 22nd, 2008
2:15 pm
And… Sarah Hers:
It’s your choice not to exercise, but if you are able to get around whatsoever, it’s silly not to–especially for women. Our bones are more brittle than men’s as we age, so lifting light weights (and/or resistance exercises, such as push-ups, or using bands) is VERY helpful, especially if doing slow burn. For cardio, at least a brisk 30-minute walk or a leisurely bike ride at least 3 days a week (if only to start) does wonders for your heart and your mental state, especially if you go 2 blocks and suddenly realize that you are “winded”–if that’s not motivation, I don’t know what is. Good luck to you!
FunChick37
August 22nd, 2008
6:08 pm
it took me a week to lose five pounds
and I look a lot more muscular.
and to the 13 year old — if you want to lose the weight you follow the diet.
If you want to lose weight you have to learn how to eat healthy foods, more specifically lean meat and beans and vegetables.
otherwise there’s no point.
You can alter it, but it works the best when you follow it strictly.
the way I feel and look now is worth the food I can no longer eat.
August 22nd, 2008
7:41 pm
Tim, you still eating these meals? Anything new to the diet?
August 23rd, 2008
7:14 am
Great tips for weight loss. I have tried them and those are definitely key rules to go by.
August 23rd, 2008
9:16 pm
Are there any dip suggestions. I am a dip whore.
Maybe, carrots sticks with guacamole? Salsa? Humous?
Thanks!
August 23rd, 2008
10:15 pm
Ok. I started this new way of eating today. It was actually better than I thought it would be. I am also walking in the evenings.
FunChick..I hope you keep posting. I find your comments inspirational!!
I too will post results. Please keep the recipes coming. I like to try different things and some things I would never think to make on my own.
Thanks!
August 24th, 2008
12:41 pm
[...] I’ve been reading Tim Ferris’ Blog and he had a post for a nutrition plan he used to lose 20 lbs of fat in 4 weeks. I’ve decided to model my nutrition plan based upon this post. It’s basically all [...]
August 24th, 2008
5:00 pm
hello again this diet really works for two weeks…. my son hasnt lost any more weight for the past 1.5 weeks whats wrong?????????
August 24th, 2008
10:08 pm
[...] (Sunday) I woke up an hour later than normal and for the first time since starting the “Tim Ferris Diet” almost 2 weeks ago, I absolutely, positively did not feel like [...]
August 26th, 2008
11:43 am
Tim,
I don’t see anything mentioning Beer! As a homebrewer, I obviously like to drink good craft beer—if not my own. I know beer contains a lot of calories, however it also aids digestion and also has many other nutritional qualities (if consumed responsibly)—– so would I have to save this for my “No holds-bar day?” Or instead of 2 glasses of wine every night, maybe just a pint of beer? BTW, I’m on the 2nd day of the diet and feel great already—
August 26th, 2008
10:23 pm
Pardon me if these are some silly questions but I am ready to start this diet but am just wondering if I can have fruit and yogurt. If fruit is cool are there any that fit better into this diet than others
August 27th, 2008
4:02 pm
Aloha Tim!
Working with both onvr and restrictive Eating Disordered clients i am happy to see all the solid info on this blog.
While Disordered Eating is a subject beyong food and weight it still does require much focus on both. I do suggest also the no white stuff, pump up the veggies and high quality protein and more frequent meals for the overeaters to get good results and keep them motivated to stay aware of their eating and habits.
Good to find you!
Aloha~
Gina
August 28th, 2008
11:13 am
Sydney, what’s all the angst about going on diets – as a 13 year old you should be able to consume all the calories you could possibly want and stay stick thin. You are still growing and developing and you need exercise not diets. Bone mass, healthy tissue and great cardiovascular system will benefit from getting outside and running around, playing sports, and less on finding a vegetable that you like to eat.
If you are having fun, running around everywhere, or cycling you’ll have no time to eat, and when you do you’ll devour what’s put in front of you. Avoid taking the easy option such as getting your mom to drive you to where you want to be. And forget about taking exercise in neat 30 – 40 slots, your whole wide awake life should be exercise except for when you have to sit still in class.
It’s unnatural to even think of dieting at age 13, go out there and get an active life, run like the wind, and stuff your face with snickers and ice cream, because this is the time of your life when your body will let you do that, provided you use your body right. Keep moving and you’ll keep the metoblism up.
If you have to resort to dieting at your current age, you’ll be on a diet for the rest of your life – and that would be a killer. Don’t consume less, burn more, and have fun doing it.
August 28th, 2008
2:20 pm
Awesome tips! I will definitely try and implement the recommendations. Just a few questions however:
1) Do bananas count as “white carbs”, or are they OK?
2) V8 (the low sodium V8′s…i.e. Tomatoe Juice). Are these acceptable to drink, or should they be avoided?
3) Gatorade (see above).
4) Protein bars (i.e. Metrix bars). Are these ok to eat?
5) Two toasts in the morning. Although white carbs should be avoided, can one eat two toasts in the morning? (provided that no other “white carbs” are eaten throughout the day).
Thanks in advance for your help!
Cheers.
August 28th, 2008
3:27 pm
Ive been doing this diet for a week and 4 days and it really works i can notice the difference, but in this diet you actually do have to do exercises
August 28th, 2008
3:34 pm
Hello Everyone:
This is Week Four for me, and I’m now a nice 142, from 155, (13 pounds!) and still truckin’! While the poundage dropping off action is slowly hitting a plateau, I’m still at it, although I even broke down and had nachos Tuesday–from Taco Bell; oh, the horror–which wasn’t my “off” day. Peer pressure, or what? They had a hard time staying down, and I felt bloated all day. Mistake. But only #2 this whole 3.5 weeks, and I hit the cardio hard and felt better. I am NOT giving up. By the way, I keep a calendar of my workouts, which really helps–the blank days make me queasy now, so I remember that every day I work out, the fuller the calendar, the less inches on the hips.
So, here’s my latest yummy venture to take out any doldrums of this “menu”: the crock pot approach, to ready for the week. Lentil and pork soup, homemade bean n’ bacon, etc. Don’t even need a crockpot–just Pyrex or like it, with a lid, and an oven. Just throw in the beans, carrot shavings, the meat, salt, pepper, garlic, olive oil, with water and let it sit (I do this on Sundays) at 250 degrees for 2-6 hours, depending upon the amount. I did this with pinto beans and lean skirt steaks slices, and it was almost like a chile con carne–yum! Everything is fresh and you’ll be amazed at how long it lasts and how good it tastes with no chemicals in it (the juices from the meat really pop out); just have a cup of one every meal (thus, taking care of the meat & beans), then have broccoli, or asparagus, or cauliflower, or mixed veggies or a small salad (I can’t BELIEVE I’ve weaned off salad dressing. I use lemon, olive oil, and a tablespoon of light mayo–that’s it! And TONS of veggies: cukes, toms, etc.). I have this about 4 times a day, and have relegated snacks to almonds, boiled eggs, or hummus + veggies. It might sound boring to some, but it’s really changed my health. I am13 lbs. lighter (looking forward to doubling that loss amount), and am seeing more muscles. And stretching. Being 155 made that a bit difficult, but in Week 4, I can now grab the bottoms of my feet to stretch my hammies. Life is good.
So to Zach: this is to be expected for your son; any time the body adjusts to new activity or diet, it plateaus eventually before the weight loss can revamp again. He needs to confuse it by upping cardio and cutting portions, have a “fat day,” then go at it again with rigor. His metabolism will catch up, so don’t let him go off this “diet” (*cough* lifestyle *cough cough*). And do not weigh him in pounds all the time–measure his inches, too, since muscle weighs more than fat. Hitting the scale every day only will depress the both of you. Weigh 1x a week, too. He’ll get there; you just can’t let him think this is a temp way of living, unless he wants to get fat again.
And Jordan, I feel you: I’m a dip slut, too. I make hummus (my red pepper version is in this forum) or bean dip (use pinto beans in a food processor with spices such as paprika, pepper, then heat it up once its whipped. Makes you want to have chips, tho!) and I’ll even cheat with a little goat cheese or feta (just a tablespoon). It’s okay to whip up guac, but you have to ace any fattening mayo (go light), and I wouldn’t recommend eating it more than 2xs a week. I like to spread that on breakfast or use carrots, celery, or cucumbers. There are SO many organic and veggie dip recipes online; and even if you find one that has a “no-no” food in it (potatoes, bread, etc.), just omit it, and 90% of the dips will taste the same! And here’s kind of a rich treat: scoop the pit out half an avocado, fill the void with caviar (it’s $6 for a small can of lumpfish), and sprinkle it with goat cheese. And eat it out of the skin. It is rich, and fends off the desire for carbs. I’ve done it 2xs now when I was really, really wanting a cheeseburger, and it’s about 200 calories, instead of the 1500 a double cheeseburger + fries!
Okay, gotta go work out. Sunday’s “naughty food” of the week: frozen grapes. I can’t wait. Oh, and a strawberry milkshake.
Good luck guys and have a great weekend! Oh, and thanks, “I’m So Lucky”! Keep us posted, too!
FunChick37
Okay, here’s a litt
August 28th, 2008
6:32 pm
Does this really work?
August 29th, 2008
5:32 am
A veggie burger griller has about 5g of carbs. Is that low enough, or the right kind of carbs, to eat during this diet?
Eating all that meat is out of the question, so looking for other options. You said that you changed the foods you repeat every few weeks. What others do you mix in?
August 31st, 2008
6:43 pm
hey everyone! So after reading all these posts I was off to to the grocery store to load up on beans and have started the first diet of my life! Two days in and I’m feeling great…and FULL! Although I cheated once, a bite of a rice krispie square. I know what you are thinking, “Weak!”. But for that to be all the sweet and white carb I ate is a huge accomplishment for me. As a 5″11, 214lb female it is time for change! I’m looking for a buddy who is doing this diet as well. Maybe chat throughout? I may need some motivation when the birthday cake rolls around. Keep it up everyone, it’s going to be worth it when we are all fit and fabulous!
September 1st, 2008
2:32 am
So, after exactly 1 month on this diet I went from 209 lbs. down to 191 lbs. Lost 2.5 inches around the waist and dropped 3% in body fat. I stuck to the diet religiously for the first two weeks, then the next two weeks I ate fruit, yogurt, soy milk as well and still managed to lose weight pretty consistently.. But I’m not entirely sure right now if the second half of the month’s weight loss was the diet or exercise. However, it definitely leaned me out a lot in the last 2 weeks. Going to stick to it for another two weeks and lose the last of the post high school weight.
September 1st, 2008
10:43 am
[...] Well, it’s hard to believe I’ve only got one more week left of the “Tim Ferris Diet“! [...]
September 1st, 2008
11:10 am
Okay, well, I’m entering my 4th week on this “eating plan.” Here’s what’s happened so far:
Weight: From 171.5 to 166.0 (5.5 lbs loss) – I was hoping for a bigger number than that – DARN
“Belly to Belly Measurement”: 38 inches to 36 inches (ok, not bad)
Pant size: 34″ to 33″ (33 inch pants feels “snug” but not tight like it used to be)
The hardest part of this so-called lifestyle change was scrubbing the damn pan after cooking scrambled eggs – I used to have a bowl of cereal for breakfast, which made it so much easier in terms of clean up and “preparation.” But after almost 30 days of this diet, I’ve gotten used to it. Even on the days I DON’T want to cook, I force myself to do it. Once i break through the resistance, it’s not that hard.
My typical meal was exactly this:
Breakfast: Scrambled eggs (1 whole egg, 1/4 cup of egg whites), beans, mixed veggies
Lunch: Spinach salad with chicken strips and beans – sometimes I’d have chicken strips, beans and mixed veggies (no spinach leafs)
Dinner: Usually the same as lunch (whatever it was that day) (once I tried grass-fed beef for dinner – it was pretty good but not cheap)
On my day off, I hardly binged on anything sweet – the only thing I ate different was having a bowl of Kashi’s with frozen blueberries for breakfast. For lunch and dinner it was usually spinach salad with chicken. Occasionally on those days off, I’d have peanut butter and jelly pocket sandwiches for lunch and a fistful of peanut butter pretzels at night.
As for snacking every 3 hours, that ranged from any number or combination of the following: fistful of peanuts, homemade protein shakes, cup of frozen blueberries (this is where I went outside the diet’s restrictions) and water.
One big thing that helped me stay on track was announcing that I was doing this for 30 days to 500 plus subscribers at my blog. That was the key to holding myself accountable.
Now that I’m winding down to the final week, I am debating on whether to continue this for another 30 days (I dread scrubbing the damn pan in the mornings!), I am also contemplating the 30-day raw food experiment, just to see what will happen.
While the weight loss with this diet was not as dramatic as I had hoped, I have benefited from the following:
1. increased energy throughout the day, especially at the gym
2. reduction of 2 inches of “belly to belly” measurement
3. fit snugly, but not tightly in a size 33 jeans
4. increased awareness of what goes in my mouth
5. strengthening of good eating habits (no more white rice, white bread (or even any bread for that matter), etc.
6. awareness of the importance of moderate portions each time I eat
There you go – all of you have inspired me to do this and I thank you for it. We’re all different and not everyone will lose 20-lbs. as advertised but that’s okay. If you experience any of the benefits I did, then I think you could declare this experiment a success!
September 2nd, 2008
4:53 am
won’t you get gastric or anything, from the lack of carbs to digest and hence all that excess juices in your stomach?
September 2nd, 2008
8:00 am
I have been on this diet for about 3 months and I have lost 26 pounds so far. I have plenty more to lose but things gave started to level off. How long can somebody maintain this diet and still lose weight?
September 2nd, 2008
1:26 pm
Is it okay to eat some soy (tofu) on this program? Also, what about soy creamer in my coffee/tea?
September 3rd, 2008
10:52 am
Great article. I have lost 70lbs by applying these same priciples.
September 3rd, 2008
8:36 pm
Hi there:
I like your diet. I did pretty much the same one eating five meals a day, but my last meal was at 7 o’clock. It was hard at first since I get hungry in the evening, but after about four days, my body adjusted. I have a hard time getting back on my diet since I have gained some pounds. I get so hungry, I could just eat anything. Any suggestions? Where can I get grass-fed beef?
Deana
September 4th, 2008
10:25 am
All I have to say is that this program truly works. I’ve lost roughly 10 pounds within the last 2.5 weeks. Only problem i’m having is with some of the foods. Other than that I really believe I can follow this program indefinately. The only tweaks i’ve made is that i’ve swapped some of the meal plans out for ones found at http://www.bodyforlife.com and http://www.healzoo.com
Other than that, keep up the good work!
September 4th, 2008
2:27 pm
Hello Everyone!
Weight’s still dropping, and I’ve upped my cardio to 6 days a week (just a 30-45 minute Beach Body routine, and power walks), and I feel so fit! I’m getting hard calf and quad muscles from tons of squats, and can now do 60 push-ups in 1 workout. And I’m not sick of the food, with all the combinations available! My latest fave is lentil stew: lentils, hamhock, carrot shavings, garlic, pepper, paprika, and a shake of nutmeg and a dash of honey. Yum. Also, mini pizzas:
Light, wheat English muffins (just a half a muffin per ‘za. Then freeze ‘em)
2 c. tomato paste (salt-free, if you can make that happen)
1 tsp. – 1 tlbsp. light or fat-free mozzarella (per 1/2 muffin or “pizza”)
tbsp. garlic
teaspoon pepper (salt to taste)
1/2 lb. of lean burger or turkey, cooked (turkey’s better, and you won’t taste the diff)
Any veggies (I like mushrooms, fresh toms, and onion)
Mix it all up, put on muffins, then the moz, then on cookie sheet (with no-stick spray or “I Can’t Believe it’s Not Butter spray), cook for about 20-30 minutes at 250-350 (just keep an eye on them)
1x a week, post workout–they’re great, and low in cals. Especially for us chickies, who are doomed to carry SOME excess baggage.
I ate a Taco Time burrito last week and it took all the Muhammad Ali in me to keep it down. Fast food is just so gross (and I watched Super Size Me again–talk about inspiration) anymore, and I’m appalled that anyone eats that more than once a month, including myself.
StevenKW, see my August 28th post about weight plateau. I hit it for a few days, but now that I’ve upped the cardio and downed the portions to exactly a cup per (beans, meat, and veggies. I usually can’t finish my meal), it’s working all over again.
And StephenHopson. Are you afraid of Teflon? Cooking spray? Ha ha! Even meat grease will keep them eggs from stickin’, so cook up some pork some time and save the grease. Use a paper towel to wipe down the pan with the grease, then toss in those chicken ova. And cook the eggs on low to medium low. But I hear ya: I’m doing more dishes in my life than I ever have (no dishwasher). Oh well–spent calories!
I am now into Week 4, and am a solid 140, going from about 155-160, and feeling terrific. Only 15 more lbs. to my ideal weight (I’m 5′ 6″, so 125 will be very exciting!), which means I’ll be weighing in again in 2 weeks, at least (I’ll probably plateau again before I hit the ideal). I hope Fall doesn’t kick in too soon, or I’ll behearing jokes about my “blowing away” (I wish. But it makes me stay focused to laugh about such a thing happening–and it could!).
Thanks for all the terrific posts to keep us all inspired, everyone!
September 5th, 2008
7:38 am
I was just wondering if soy is alright as a replacement for milk? Also, are chick peas allowed?
September 5th, 2008
10:10 am
I forgot to ask also if granola was acceptable and/or granola or “south beach diet” type of bars?
September 6th, 2008
7:01 pm
I follow Rob regarding his last comment but not Vladimir. Today is my “Dieter’s gone wild day.” I’ve tried the once a week splurge before by accident and saw a difference, but I didn’t realize then what I was doing and thought my body had gone haywire. Now, I’m enjoying it without the guilt and look at it as my break from “monotony”! Turkey makes me sleepy, however and I generally avoid it except on Thanksgiving. During the week, I don’t really like to cook because it is time consuming and I have other things I would prefer to do, so I tend to keep most of my meals simple.
Cooking can be a cheap creative outlet on the weekENDS though. My boyfriend seems to appreciate too which makes me want to cook even more! I generally try to make more than I need in regard to beans and meat so that I can have left overs to freeze and/or easily reheat in the micro during the week. I also look for new ways to use and combine healthy foods. You can get creative with spices.
I’ve made two different kinds of bean soups and one of them included a lot of spinach, pureed tomato, onion, vegetable broth, seasonings and just a little bit of rice. What I really like about beans is that they make me feel full. Slow cookers don’t slow me down. They enable me to manage my time differently. I have more fun cooking in the morning when I have more energy.
I haven’t quite mastered the no exercise part. Yoga and walking have always been my way of refocusing, unwinding or decompressing.
September 7th, 2008
10:59 am
Me and my mom just started this program and where so excited
September 7th, 2008
3:38 pm
I always been overweight and over the years I have been called fat and overweight and then one day I got fed up with being overweight and started dieting. May 11, 2008 was when I started to change my eating habits. I weighted myself that day and I was 245 pounds standing at 5’8″.
At first I just ate more often, just cut all the fast foods, and bad foods and the weight just kept dropping. In about a month I was around 230 by changing my eating habits. And then I just kept slowly losing weight. When I was around 225 pounds in late July, I discovered this site and I lost weight steadily until about 215, where I stopped losing weight where my weight just maintained.
I realized that this diet wasn’t going to work for me anymore after losing about 10 pounds. So then I tried diet similar to nutrisystem diet. Where I followed their serving guide and kept my calorie count under 1500 calories a day. Within a week I seem to lost 5 pounds, but then that was it. My weight has been the same for a while now.
While being 210, I went to a few birthday dinners, family parties and other social events and seem to gain the 5 pounds back so then I was back around 215 pounds. Being fustrated with my weight lost and gained, I decided to go back to this diet and I don’t think I lost any weight because first thing in the morning I weight around 210, but at the end of the day I weight a little more than 215. I don’t know.
But this week was really fustrating for me because of my weight lost. I wanted to really give up and not diet anymore. Until I went to my brother’s high school football game a few days ago on Friday. Where I saw some old friends who said: “WOW! You look really good now’ I’m proud of you’ and you look a lot better, keep it up! etc..” That really motivated me to to continue losing weight and made me happy because hearing those comments from my friends made me feel really good about myself and how my lifestyle change was good for me.
But the thing is I don’t think my diets are working for me anymore.. I play basketball 5 days a week for at least 3 hours a day playing full court. and I workout 6 days a week for at least hour and a half. I don’t get what i’m doing wrong and I want to shed the pounds, but its not coming off anymore.
This is what I eat like everyday:
Breakfast:
1 Chicken Breast – 100 calories
1/2 Cup Pinto Beans – 80 calories
1 Cup Mix Veggies – 25 Calories
Snack:
1/2 Cup Pinto Beans – 80 Calories
or 1 Cup Mix Veggies – 25 calories
Lunch:
2 Chicken Breast – 200 Calories
1/2 Cup Pinto Beans – 80 calories
1 Cup Mix Veggies – 25 Calories
Snack:
1/2 Cup Pinto Beans – 80 Calories
or 1 Cup Mix Veggies – 25 Calories
Post Workout:
100% Whey Protein – 120 Calories
Dinner:
1 Salmon – 340 Calories
2 Cup Veggies – 50 Calories
Snack:
1/2 Cup Pinto Beans – 80 Calories
or 1 Cup Mix Veggies – 25 Calories
Do you guys have any suggestions or advice for me? Anything will be appreciated.
- Chung
September 7th, 2008
6:16 pm
Funchick 37, are you using the supplements Tim talked about in a preview answer? or you are doing it the natural way? Good job by the way
Also, id like to know if its ok to use vegetable oil, flax seed…on this diet
September 9th, 2008
12:44 pm
So I’m a senior in highschool, I’ve been overweight most of my life, but I’m tall, at 6’2″ so the weight is dispersed and people find me not really fat but a overall big person.
I enjoy all of these foods, but the hardest thing for me to do when I start this, is lunch. my lunch is at 12 pm during school. The best idea thus far is a chicken salad.
What are the best prepackaged foods to help supplement my salad? Or what can I make that I can divvy up easily for multiple lunches?
I can eat at 6:30 am, 12 pm, 4 pm, and 7 pm as my 4 meals
The only one I can’t cook is 12 pm.
And is a Buffalo Chicken wrap ok? Tomato Tortilla. lettuce, tomato, chicken and a buffolo sauce of unknown origin. How about apples?
Thanks for any input!
September 9th, 2008
1:36 pm
Chung,
Have you tried experimenting with increasing your calories? You are exercising a lot and it looks to me that you might not be getting enough calories. Throw in a protein shake or 2 during the day and see if that gets you moving down again. This has worked for me and I don’t work out half as much as you.
September 9th, 2008
1:56 pm
HI everyone and Tim!!
This diest is great :) im on my second week and i’ve lost 8 pounds so far yay!! ohh i started at 148 and im hoping to go back to my origonal weight of 130 so wish me luck. Thnx everyone for your comments it really helped motivate me and stick to this and thank you Tim.
I’ll keep you all posted
September 10th, 2008
7:44 am
Hey everyone. I wanted to give you a two week update for myself, especially if anyone needs a little motivation. So I eat all kinds of vegetables, black beans (mostly just because I love em) and the meats suggested. I cheated all weekend, 30 hours in three days at a gourmet restaurant led to some bad bad eating for three days! Not that I suggest it, but once I stepped on the scale I was still happy. I am down 9 lbs! Wooot wooot!! I also cheat a little in between, I accidentally had a beer without thinking twice about it and the odd bite of breadstick here and there.
I feel like I have more energy than before and two people have mentioned that i look like I have lost some weight…being 5″11 and female it takes a lot for even me to notice! No workouts (other than running after a three year old and walking to and from school) and no supplements. This diet is working and i don’t feel deprived at all. So time to get your head in the game and join in! Thanks for all your great posts everyone.
September 10th, 2008
12:20 pm
What prepackaged foods are good for snacks?
September 10th, 2008
12:30 pm
[...] heavily processed food that has a high glycemic index (GI). Foods that have a high GI contribute to weight gain, diabetes, and other health [...]
September 10th, 2008
4:03 pm
There are a lot of great tips here.
The most important aspect to burning away excess body fat…is to employ your subconscious.
Yes…I am talking about getting psychological about your physiological.
Can you ‘think yourself into a fat burning mode’???
Yes.
Diet and Exercise. That’s a given.
But what about the power of your own mind?
You can use your own mind to ‘shift’ your metabolism into a fat burning mode.
That is one of many things that “Fat Into The Fire” is all about!
September 10th, 2008
8:13 pm
Hi everyone..
Tim or anyone please help..
Tim recommended:
200mcg chromium polynicotinate (not “picolinate”), which is niacin-bound GTF chromium; this can be found under the brand name “ChromeMate”
1.) However the pharmacist gave me 400mcg chromium picolinate and said that they’re both similar, is that true ? can i take it instead?
500mg of slow-release niacin (nicotinic acid) under the brand name “Slo-Niacin” before bed and another upon waking up.
2.) Can i take 750 mg before bed and take another 750mg of niacin upon waking in the morning or would that be too much?
23mg of policosanol (I use Nature’s Life brand)
3.) The pharmacist gave me (a french brand) that contains : vitamine b,complex, vitamine d, cystine, methionine, biotine,zinc… i just wanted to make sure they’re similar before taking it.
PLease reply asap i wana start taking those supplements tom.
September 11th, 2008
1:31 am
andrewisnot,
Yeah I’ve been eating 1500 calories for a while now, except my cheat day. I will use your suggest and maybe bump it up to 1800 calories, but the thing is, the amount of food I eat is a lot even though the calorie count is low,I have trouble finishing my food. But yeah I will throw in a protein shake with each snack to make it close to 1800 calories.
Do you think my body is burning too much calories a day and I don’t have enough calories for power and energy what not is the reason why I haven’t lost any weight. To this day, I’m still 210! Errrrrrggg.
- Chung
September 11th, 2008
3:48 pm
Hiya Everyone!
Read past posts, and it sounds like everyone is doing very well… I’m especially intrigued by B_Dizzle’s confession of cheating for THREE DAYS and still losing weight. If that’s not changing your body, I don’t know what is… and I hear ya on the beer. Me, not beer, but wine is up there with my best friend… 2-3 glasses every few days, for me… my way of relaxing. Which I feel I’ve earned lately.
I have lost 4 days of working out in the last 2 weeks, and it’s funny how sluggish it makes me feel–and, my weight is stuck at 138 since last Friday–haven’t weighed myself since then (but that’s still 2 less lbs. than a week ago). I recently stopped driving to work and riding my bike (and some days, walking. I hear 2200 steps extra a day = a lb. a week, so I’monna get me a pedometer!), so that ought to pick up the pace. And, I’ve curbed my servings. Now I can’t eat a whole chicken breast in one sitting, and am cutting out the 2nd egg in the morning. I’m drinking more water than ever, and green tea will be the fave for fall (I’m gonna sneak tablespoons of milk or flavored cream, though!). But the best thing about this, is how natural the pattern has become, as I rummage for something to eat… “Beans… hmmm… what meat today? What veggies?” And I’ve gotten a few comments from people about “looking good,” so I’m staying motivated.
And lilme, I stay away from supplements, as I had a bad reaction to one, I think was guar- or a niacin-based something. My face turned scarlet and it was hot, the whole time I took it, so yes, just doing it natural now. I don’t eat anything processed, except wine and pinches of cheese here and there, for flavor on beans and salads. And… flax seed oil is excellent on the bowels (and for losing weight), but watch the amount! You may have to do a Carl Lewis to the bathroom every hour or so if you take too much! My poor dad had an episode. He hisses at the mere mention of flax anymore.. ha ha. And really, if you’re going to “do oil,” olive oil is the healthiest. But do know that about a tablespoon = 100 calories! I opt for 100% natural olive oil in an aerosol can–no calories, same way to cook.
Latest yummy recipe:
Chicken pieces
Mushrooms
Onion
Garlic
Tomato paste
V8 juice (100% natural)
1/2 cup of cream (I know, I know, but it’s for flavor)
Fajita seasoning pepper
Throw it all in a saucepan on low (some people prefer crispier chicken, so fry that up with olive oil beforehand to taste) for about 25-30 minutes, and put on a bed of lettuce/styled salad (salsa on the salad works great) with your choice of beans (pinto or chili go best). And splurge. Slice of avocado? A sprinkle of feta cheese? I made a vat of this and my friends like it.
And dang, I’m still going at it–I can’t believe it’s been almost a month! So if you’re just starting, all I gotta say is this posting helps– I can’t come in here and say, “Whoops! I fell off the wagon!” The obligation keeps me motivated… as do all the people on here have the same degree of success. You go, peeps!
Welp, signing off at 138 lbs. for now. Hopefully, I’ll be at 132-135 at next posting in a week or so…
Good luck to everyone–and keep those menus and recipes coming!
FC
September 12th, 2008
8:17 am
dear chung,
i totally agree with andrewisnot that you are working out too much.
your body is gone into fasting and has decreased the rate of metabolism. it thinks that the energy needs are high (which they are) and the incoming food is not enough(1500? not enough).
there is a formula that tells you how many calories you should eat to lose weight, based on your weight and level of activity.
i just checked it out. if you are around 200 lb and are active (i.e. working out 4-6 X week), then your body ‘needs’ around 3000 calories to function. so if you give it any less that 3000, then you burn fat. you are way below 3000…i suggest bring the calories up to 2200 or at least 2000…
but that is just my suggestion…
September 12th, 2008
11:41 am
[...] percentages of what I want to loss. There is one diet I plan to try. This diet mainly comes from Tim Ferriss. I’ve been a fan of his Blog for a long time and have finally decided to put it into [...]
September 12th, 2008
12:41 pm
who was fonzie? it sounds like one of the muppet characters, like kermit and gonzo. or am i way off? o_O
-A
September 12th, 2008
2:28 pm
Hopeful,
You guys are correct! I just went to multiple BMR websites and it says I need only around 2000 calories if I’m not active and don’t do anything at all, but if I’m pretty active which I am I need around 3000 calories! And they say to lose about a pound a week, I need to subtract 500 calories from 3000 a day which will result in 3500 and I will lose a pound in 1 week. Still though, 2500 calories seem a lot, I’m going to need to change what I eat because currently what I eat will nowhere near add up to 2500 calories a day. I’ll just stick to 2000 calories I guess and on my break day, 1500 on my cheat day.
- Chung
September 12th, 2008
2:59 pm
Hi Everyone,
I read about this diet yesterday 9/11/08 and I immediately went out and bought myself different can’s of beans so I can start on this diet today. As of today 9/12/08 I weigh 150lbs and I’m trying to lose the 20lbs that have been creeping up on me ever since I had my son last year. I’ve tried atkins before and I lost a bunch of weight so I’m sure this diet will work too, long as I stick to it. So wish me luck.
I’ll keep you all updated
September 13th, 2008
11:57 am
Tomorrow is my first dieters gone wild day. Honestly, I’m really nervous about it. So far I’ve lost about 2 pounds. I’ll let everyone know how I’m doing again next week. I just have one question, someone please tell me if ‘unsweetened soy milk’ is alright.
September 14th, 2008
10:09 am
what about cooked shrimp can you add cold shrimp to the diet for things like salad
September 14th, 2008
4:41 pm
I have found your information very helpful and have implemented some of it into my weight loss regimen. I have lost 14 pounds and hope to lose 20 more.
Thank you
September 14th, 2008
9:22 pm
I’d stay away from the soymilk. You’re better off eating real food. The liquids don’t fill you up as much.
September 15th, 2008
2:34 am
After reading this I can’t wait until I start my diet, but to me 20lbs doesn’t seem enough to lose but what if I wanted to lose a little more through running. Would I lose a lot more weight or everything might just balance out to be the same weight dieting without exercising?
September 15th, 2008
4:35 am
This is great info. Thank you~ I love your blog and I’m getting lots out of it~I’m headed to Amazon to order your book!
September 15th, 2008
4:41 pm
Hey. I am 15 years old, and I want to try this diet..but, it seems a little..not my taste. Any other suggestions?
September 15th, 2008
5:00 pm
So, you have meat for protein (Is most fish/shrimp good too?)
The Vege’s and such for vitamins and overall goodness
And the legumes for energy/slow carb
When I read 22 grams of carbohydrates on a can of black beans, thats what I’m looking for right? All beans high in carbs because they are different slower carbs?
When you say mixed vegetables, you mean all kinds of veges are ok? or are you talking about a can of something?
Can turkey be a good meat? Turkey on wheat bread after exercise, a good hour or more of it mid day. And ground turkey?
And organic beef is expensive. Can I buy normal ground beef?
I started today, and I’m really excited. I have Hispanic in my ancestry so these types of food are always around. No rice is going to be a killer.
I figured the same breakfast always. And every week will be a new meat, I’m never picky so the same meal sounds great.
Any answers are highly appreciated, thanks and good luck to everyone!
September 15th, 2008
6:20 pm
Thanks Rob.
I also see a lot of people mentioning that they have a handful of mixed nuts as a snack, I wonder if that’s considered a ‘slow carb’ and are allowed?
Well, My first “bad” day was yesterday and I haven’t weighed myself, but I feel alright!
September 16th, 2008
3:53 pm
Hi All:
I’m posting a few days early because now I’ve missed 7 days total of working out over the last 13 days, and I weighed in at 140 (last Sunday was 138. I think got excited and shoved a cheeseburger down or something! Ha ha), so needed to read some encouraging posts— and it sounds as if people are getting started and lost weight–awesome!
John, as long as you can exercise, you should get your heart rate up at least 4-6 days a week. And if you run early, your body continues to burn calories better throughout the day, although any time of the day is fine.
Gustov, I started almost 4 weeks ago, and lost a thrilling 12 lbs., and I subbed at least 1 seafood (shrimp or steamed clams), or turkey (I like to cook up turkey burger with black beans, onions, and a side of greens, such as asparagus or broccoli, for 1 meal and put it on a salad bed) 1x a week. Just think: lowfat meat (protein); veggies (any are alright, but check the carbs; carrots and corn are really high, so if you have more beans than usual, they can tend to stack up), anything green or leafy is BEST. Then your 1/2 c. – c. of beans: pinto, chili, black, and lentils work the best. And you’ll get used to the whole “nonprocessed” refried beans (they actually taste fresher without all the lard), and no rice. Just fill with your fave veggies! I always toss a tablespoon of toms and avocado on my dinners, and pinch of feta or goat cheese. And if you like spicy hot, there’s nothing wrong with pepper, chili powder, some salsa and/or hot sauce.
Welp, gotta go get my slow burn and cardio in–good luck to all! I won’t be posting until I have a 130-lb. something to report. Grrr… not a fan of “plateauing!”
FC
September 17th, 2008
5:45 am
hi.
i was thankful i found your article. im gonna try this and post my result later. your 4 rules seems simple enough and i am dying to loss some weight for a while now. ill keep you posted on the result. by the way, im using this supplementary drink that consist of all the thing that the body needs in exhange of leaving out the regular meal im having. thanks again for your tip.
September 17th, 2008
1:03 pm
Started my diet today, starting weight @ 135 (Morning Weight), with a goal of 120lbs.
Day one: Did’nt have time to prepare much but, I warmed up some beans in the morning from a can and shoved it down my throat. Ate half a carrot leaving the house, and I was a bit hungry through out the day. Came home ate some grilled vegetables with avacado, and hummus which was good. Its 4 oclock kinda hungry but will try to last it out until 8 where i’ll eat an egg or some thing.
As a vegetarian its hard to find substitutes for the meat. But I figure that I’ll make some good beans myself, grill alot of vegetables with a tad of olive oil, and make fresh salsa for the veggies. This should be a good plattar for a week :)!
September 17th, 2008
2:05 pm
[...] is the last status on my Traineo account, I know Daniel was right and I think Ferris is too. Now its just time to get ready for the summer. Categorized as [...]
September 18th, 2008
9:15 pm
This seems like a really good long term diet that’s east to stick to. I seriously can see myself eating like this forever.
thanks
September 19th, 2008
4:52 am
Second day of the diet has passed, felt very hungry through out the day. Ate eggs in the morning, and had some diet iced tea throughout the day. But in the afternoon I cheated a bit and had a salad, black bean soup, and a piece of whole wheat bread from panera which was delicious. But I did run three miles after that.
At the end of the day I totaled in at 130lbs a total loss of 5 POUNDS in ONE DAY! Mainly becuase I did so much running, but im impressed with the results.
Eitherway need to get back on track after that bread yesterday still feelin guilty about it!
September 19th, 2008
8:13 am
We’ll I’ve been on the diet for a week now and so far so good. I’ve lost 3lbs this week and weighed in @ 147lbs from 150lbs. Its kinda disappointing that the scale doesn’t show big numbers but my body looks leaner. I think I will keep away from the baked beans since they do have a lot of added sugar. This week I’ll stick to the canned variety of beans and cook them up myself when I’m looking for better tasting beans. All in all it hasn’t been too hard giving up the white carbs, I only craved them for about 2 days, now I can walk in the store without a thought of buying them. Im also working out but not as regularly as I’d like to so its still nice to see a change in the scale..
September 19th, 2008
8:17 am
I started this diet on Sunday (9/14) and nothing happened for a couple of days. I started doubting this, but on Tuesday, I lost a lb. It’s Friday now, and I’ve lost 5 lbs! That’s a loss of 5 lbs in 6 days. . .and no exercise. I’ve followed Tim’s diet almost exactly, but added one fruit (plum, grapefruit, apple) snack each day. I also add a sprinkle of shredded cheese to my egg/spinach/mushroom combo for breakfast. It’s so good! Tomorrow is my free day. I’m not looking forward to it like I was last Sunday, but will go for it because Tim said so! In moderation though.
My plan is to continue with this diet without exercise until I reach a plateau. Then I’ll incorporate exercise to give it a boost to reach my goal of losing 25 lbs. Thanks so much to Tim and everyone who have posted! You’ve given me lots of encouragement to start this and stick with it!
September 19th, 2008
8:41 am
How are regular beans in Tomato for this? My favorite meal is pork and beans though after 2 days I’ve stuck to lentils and black beans.
Can I go with the regular beans in Tomato sauce if I use only half a can and a single pork chop?
September 19th, 2008
12:30 pm
So I’m on my 5th day.
My breakfast looks like this:
A little bit of canned ham mixed with pourable eggs, about 2 eggs.
A third to a half a can of black beans
A good helping of string beans
Lunch: (Right after exercise)
Shrimp Salad, normal lettuce with 10-12 small shrimp (Today with a little feta cheese, is that ok?)
About 8 small carrots, or 5-6 palm sized length celeary sticks
Maybe a banana
A few slices of turkey on 2 wheat bread slices
A water bottle or two of water mixed with those little flavor packets
Linner: (Between lunch and dinner)
Third to Half of a can of black beans
A good helping of vegetables, string beans or asparagus
A chunk of canned ham.
Dinner:
(3 days)Chile, turkey instead of beef, with Mexican style beans (pinto I believe) and tomato sauce/diced tomatoes
(Once) Palm sized serving of steak, with asparagus and a 1/3 can of beans
Next week it is will revolving around chicken, and a bean soup for dinner. I’d like to stick t a little ham in the morning though, very easy and flavorful for the eggs.
I haven’t weighed myself, but I started out at 205. My runs have gotten less hard.
Sunday will be my first wild day. I just plan on a few vanilla wafers, and some apple juice.
Is my eating ok? Is there anything I MUST drop? Hows the feta cheese? Feta cheese makes me want to gobble down a salad or two!
September 20th, 2008
8:04 am
ARE MIXED NUTS AND ACCEPTABLE SNACK!?!?
September 20th, 2008
8:38 am
And Tim, I’ve had your four work week book since it came out. I must say your approach to weight loss is the same good cut to the chase type of advice.
September 20th, 2008
4:56 pm
What are some other good post-workout meals? Whats a good dinner after like a 30-40 Cardio workout?
I notice the pizza given as an example and I can see why the pizza is good but surely not the entire pizza? How many slices? maybe 2 slices of the pizza and stick it in the fridge for after the next workout?
Anything else? Good guidelines for post-workout meals please!
September 21st, 2008
5:48 am
Love the meal plan. You can’t really call it a diet since it looks like a long term thing
The eating 4 meals a day part actually does work. Got to do with boosting the metabolism everytime you eat
I have the 5 meal a day plan which works well
And the great thing is looking len and never feeling hungry
What’s your take on flaxseed oil?
September 22nd, 2008
2:27 am
Hi all,
I started this diet the week before last and I lost about 2/3 lbs, but last week I didn’t loose anything and I felt quite constipated! I stuck to it religioulsy, but just wondering if I ate too many lentils? Also I had wine every night as I had a sister staying. I know Tim has wine every night, but it is full of sugar. I am back on track today and giving it another go, I wasn’t ever hungry but really annoyed not to have lost anything in my second week. Can anyone shine a light on it for me?
thanks
Amy
September 22nd, 2008
12:35 pm
I’ve just had my second “dieter’s gone wild day,” and I will admit that I went wild for sure. All my “vices in excess”…cake, chips,candy,etc. So, I’ll be sure to let you know how I recover. But, just before that I posted a picture from my results of the first week and my friends have already noticed a difference! Yay! I fluctuate somewhat but according to MY scale I’ve lost around 5 lbs so far.
September 23rd, 2008
5:19 am
Tim,
What about food combining? There is a ton of research that points to eating protein and carbs separately. Some people even believe this is the REAL reason cutting carbs way down in diets actually works. Because you actually digest your food better when they are separate.
It takes different enzymes to digest proteins, starches and fats. Starches start being broken down by the saliva and then are finished in the small intestine. Where proteins are digested in the stomach. Eating the two together inhibits digestion, slows it down and it often responsible for the bloating, gas and even heartburn some people get after a heavy mixed protein and carb meal.
I have tried both mixing and combining (which is actually seperating carbs and protiens and combining certain foods together at meals) and still do both depending on what I am trying to accomplish.
But I will tell you that when I eat my carbs and proteins at separate meals. I digest faster, digest better, have much more energy and I am hungry again soon. In fact food combining is the only way I have ever been able to eat 5+ meals a day while trying to gain muscle.
Doing this alone will cause people to lose fat. Even if they are eating the same amount of calories. Because the food is better digested and also their metabolism speeds up.
If you favor protein over carbs, and then eat lower glycemic carbs at your carb meals your are sure to lose weight.
Take it to the next level and then also drop your calories as well and there is no way you will not lose fat.
If you are sedentary this is the kind of diet you should stay on. Because you are digesting better and still getting healthy carbs. If you are very active or an athlete you don’t really need to do food combining.
September 23rd, 2008
12:48 pm
My weight seems to have stagnated, in fact I think I’ve put on some weight even though I’ve not eaten any white carbs since my dieters gone wild day on Friday and all I ate were pancakes since I didn’t want to “put on” the 3 lbs I lost the first week. Any one having the same problem??? I go to the gym and lift weights, no cardio and my body seems leaner, but the scale is not moving and I really want to go back to 135, I’m currently hovering around 150. Tips anyone??????
September 23rd, 2008
6:41 pm
Hi Tim,
I am 16 years old, and I want to lose weight so i currently excerise around 40 minutes a day working out different parts of the body such as upper, lower and dumbbells for 5 days a week.
I just started taking whey protein to boost my protein intake, if i follow this diet should i cut on the protein shakes? Also what type of foods would you recommend I eat, since i am 16 and still growing is this diet ok for me?
September 24th, 2008
5:14 am
Hi
Just cruising through and saw your site.Congrats on your success with your plan.As a certified health and fitness instrcutor I really wanted to mention to the 16 year old commentor above to consult with his or her parents before attempting any type of diet.Thanks
Tamara
September 24th, 2008
11:10 am
[...] That’s when I saw he had lost a lot of weight. He eventually told me it was the “Tim Ferris Diet” that helped him lose 47 lbs. over several months. Intrigued, I googled and found Tim [...]
September 24th, 2008
11:13 am
Nico how would you go about seperating the carbs and proteins? Like eat an egg for breakfast then about an hour later have some bread or something?It sounds intresting but I am alittle confused. What would the meals look like? I am getting married this Nov and would love to drop some more wight before the big day. Thanks
September 24th, 2008
2:32 pm
I just wanted to get into shape so what I did was go to bodybuilding101.com and find a good workout program. The diet is the key! you have to have enough fuel and the right fuel to get your body enough energy to burn off what you don’t need.
It is the same principle as paying down your debt! If you have to much then you have to pay more (proper exersise and food) of your bill (body) than you are spending (eating what you shouldn’t). Get on a plan and get very very focused. This isn’t a habit, it is behaviour modification.
September 25th, 2008
9:06 am
I think this plan works for a few reasons.
1. It’s a healthy plan minus the FREE DAY. This should be done in the first place.
2. It makes you eat the same filling foods over and over again which in turn counts calories right there. He has it right on when he says people who are successful eat the same meals over and over again. Don’t get fancy just make it simple.
3. YOU ARE EATING A LOT OF FIBER!! Say you eat beans for three of the meals and you have one cup at a a time depending on the bean that 36-40 grams of fiber. Now you add in the vegetables and you are hitting close to 50-60 grams a day. Now to be gross but going a number 2 will be done more then once a day which makes for a faster metabolism.
For people that don’t know fiber makes everything digest slower and also it counts for nothing. What i mean is when you see that there are say 36 grams of carbs in a cup of beans but 14 of them are fiber then you end up with only 22 carbs a meal. So it is in it self a lower carb / slow carb healthy diet.
This man knows his stuff.
September 25th, 2008
9:12 am
OK….I’m doing it…and I’m journaling EVERYTHING! I am normally a size 4 -6 and life has been an awful roller coaster ride for me the past two years…I’ve recently found out I’m and closet emotional binge – eater….LOL…I am a girl…. and A LOT has been going on….Any way, in the last two years I’ve fattened up to a NASTY size 12….which isn’t bad, but it is for someone like me, who has a small frame and should be a size 4. So Tim Ferriss…..I hope this is my answer for a HEALTHY way for me to lose my newly aquired hind end….will keep all posted! Note: I’m also checking out the Geek to Freak post….Tim/All what does everyone think of this P90X?
September 25th, 2008
9:52 am
Can I substitue a can of pork and beans for the beans part of this diet? Thanks
September 25th, 2008
1:00 pm
Hey- came across this a while back and I think I’ve finally implemented it…. Okay this is my diet:
9am: Coffee no cream little milk….
11am: Coffee (as before) and Weetabix (no fat, around 24g carbs- high fiber)
5pm: Special K snack bar
8pm: 2 broca soy burger patties some veg no bread etc and coffee (as before)
11pm: peanuts
after training a protien shake…
this diet is repeated over and over…. it is abit of a different take and does break the no cereal rule and no milk rule but I assumed it is reasonable since my overall carb content in a day is 41g carb, 2.8g, 40.8g protien (ex. protien shake), total calories 517. I have maintained the one day doss diet too….
I think its a decent diet and fits in well with my life style…..
any input will be nice….
thanx
September 25th, 2008
9:53 pm
do you know if it is safe or healthy to follow your steps if i am breastfeeding??
September 26th, 2008
2:21 pm
wow!
this diet thing sounds great
and im really hoping to be able to follow
it thank you!!
September 27th, 2008
9:48 pm
Tim,
I normally pack my lunch for school, any good suggestions?
Thank you.
September 28th, 2008
9:40 am
Mrs. Bulldgod and I are starting Tim’s plan tommorow. After our son passed away last year we lost a few pounds, but then began to over eat and drink, resulting in massive weight gain. We recently moved to Argentina where lean beef in plentiful and inexpensive as are vegetables. Legumes are a different story…I’ve only found lentils which are not my favorite, but acceptable. We will update next week.
ciao,
Bulldog
September 28th, 2008
7:26 pm
Jai, I’m concerned with what you are eating. You are restricting your food choices to the extreme. Coffee seems to be your main stay. Bad choice. Read Caffine Blues by Stephen Cherniske. This will explain why caffine is not good for you. I understand the author wants a body fat ratio of less than 10%. Let’s talk what’s a normal healthy body fat % we all should be so we DO NOT eat to such extremes as I’ve been reading here. I agree with staying away from white foods, processed foods. Foods that are as close to nature as possible will achieve the weight lose you are looking for. Fruits are not your enemy. They burn slowly. If you like bread try Ezekiel Bread. The 1st 5 ingredients are; organic sprouted 100% whole wheat, filtered h2o, sprouted org. barley, sprouted org. millet, sprouted org. barley. There’s no sugar added in any form. Plus it is a complete protein. Eating should be a pleasure everyday not just on Saturday. You can eat fruits and veggies without worrying about calorie counting. I’m not a doctor or a nutritionist just one of the many out there who’s trying to get back to nature and enjoy food again.
September 30th, 2008
7:34 am
I fell off the wagon for a couple of days and had some of the “white carbs”, I didn’t do alot of damage but I think I’ve derailed my weight loss by a couple of pounds, I don’t want to weigh myself to find out. I’m back on the diet starting today. For those of you out there who are still not sure if the diet works, YES IT DOES!!! I’ve lost a lot of fat, especially around my middle and that alone makes me want to keep working on sticking to the diet. I’ll keeps you all updated.
September 30th, 2008
8:46 am
Bit of an update for everyone. Started it myself about 1.5 weeks ago.
Male – 5’10 – 194.8 at the start.
I’ve been down to as low as 185.6 so far. My meal plans basically consist of:
Breakfast:
2 egg whites + 1 whole organic egg scrambled
Brown beans in tomato sauce (1/2 cup = 1 serving)
Mixed Microwaveable Veggies (1 cup)
Lunch:
Boneless Butterfly Pork chop or Boneless Chicken Breast
Brown beans in tomato sauce
Mixed Microwaveable Veggies
Dinner:
Same as lunch w/ a glass of red wine at 11-12am just before I go to sleep.
Right now I do about 30-40 mins cycling 10 km every evening around the city. I also play soccer every Monday and Tuesday night. I use Tuesday as my “binge” day to let loose so I can enjoy the fine victory beers and celebration after the games.
I don’t go all out on the binge day though. I still keep regular meals w/ breakfast, lunch, dinner. I just substitute in the good stuff like Kraft Dinner for lunch and maybe some pasta at the bar over the beers with friends.
Totally works as long as you stick to it!
September 30th, 2008
10:37 am
Debbi,
I agree that Jai’s diet is not what you want. His metabolism will zero out because he is starving himself of caloric intake.
But the rest of your comments forget the goal. The goal is to lose weight.
Once at that your goal weight, eating healthy foods, watching your sugar carb intake and staying away from processed food will maintain your weight.
Jai should reevaluate his diet, and you should re-evaluate your comments.
This eating plan to lose weight is not a life long meal plan. It’s goal is to lose weight to where you want to be, and be a basis of learning WHY we put weight on, fell depressed during the day, get tired more often. Once you’ve acheived your goals, and understand WHY we put on weight, then the food choices we make are easy.
September 30th, 2008
11:42 am
Remember the body works from a pre-historic view point, survival. Calories in, calories burned. If you resrtict your calories to the point that the body thinks it is in a famine it will slow down your metabolism. This would be a disaster when it come to weight loss. I read somewhere that you burn 50 calories an hour sleeping. That’s 1200 calories as a base for the body to do its job if you look at it in a very smple way. So make that your base do not go below that in calories eaten each day. A variety of foods is best. You should be looking to develop a diet that will work for you for a life time. Not just a few weeks to lose a few pounds. Can you really eat the same 4 foods every day of you life? Take a multi-vitamin please. You will not get the nutrients you need with a restricted diet. Exercise is important for more than just weight loss. You need strong bones and core muscles strength. Walk, lift weights. Think long term. How do you want to look and feel @ 60, 70, 90? Eat 5 to 7 meals a day and a meal can be an apple @ noon and a cup of yogurt @ 3. If you eat fruits and veggies mostly you will not have to worry about your weight. They’re calories are low and they provide you will the nutrients your body is craving. Stay as close to nature as possible when eating, garden to plate. Remember garden to plate.
October 1st, 2008
12:21 am
[...] And another diet that is free and has worked for me but I couldn't stick to is here: http://www.fourhourworkweek.com/blog/200… Good luck on losing weight. I know it's very difficult from experience and I hope you [...]
October 1st, 2008
7:59 am
Due to flu-like symptoms…I could not start this program until today! Which works out well, being that today is Oct. 1st! Any recipes out there? Crock pot stuff…..EASIER the BETTER!
October 1st, 2008
7:22 pm
[...] way around) from how to learn languages and never forget anything to how to hack your sleep and how to lose weight without exercise. He revels in being a jack of all [...]
October 2nd, 2008
1:22 am
hi i have just starte dyour diet today and would love for you to answer the folllowing as i am unsure.
1) can i eat any kind of beans if i cant find the ones you listed, what are substitutes?
2) i have noticed that the beans have allot of carbs in also, does this matter?
3) should i be exerscing on this diet if so how often?
4)if i cant get spinach can i alternate with greens and cabage?
can you please let me know about the above, i am so confused.
thank u :)
October 2nd, 2008
6:27 am
Has anyone on here try this that is a big person , I am talking over 300 lbs I am 315 lbs and wonder if this would work . I have tried all kinds of diets but they cost so much money to maintain . Buy this buy that . I want something simple and easy on the groceries . I am a poor person from Canada that wants to lose weight but to diet means money …
October 2nd, 2008
9:37 am
Ruby,
Beans are fiber carbs, no sugar, so they break down differently and don’t leave you hungry for more carbs. Use any beans. I use Kidney on my salads, black with my fajitas (minus the tortilla).
Most the posts on here are strange to me.
Keep it simple. Eat the foods described or variations. Stay away from sugar, don’t drink calories. Protein and fiber based snacks, no sugar or carbs. If you follow the simple rules, you won’t be hungry so questions regarding snacks are mute. But snack on veggies if you must.
Remember two things. Tim posted this with the goal of getting to < 5% body fat. It is what he was doing to reach that goal.
Set your own goals, use the diet to get there. Then, you will realize the consequences of your food choices. Bring fruits back into your diet and eat balanced meals, using proteins as a base, and you will maintain the weight loss you acheived during the diet.
Regarding exercise, realize that any and all exercise is good for you. Mixing aerobic and weight training is the best. With the high protein, you will gain muscle mass if you weight train, but not if you do high reps vs. high weight. You will create lean muscle and feel tighter between the weight loss and muscle, it will impress your mirror viewings.
Here’s my history with this diet. I’m not very disciplined and set my goals accordingly.
If I follow it to a tee.. I lose 2lbs a day.
In 13 days, I dropped from 210 – 196lbs and was eating some chocolate and nuts during the day out of habit and my coworkers making it easy….
1. Egg whites, or egg beaters or even eggs for breakfast
2. Protein power (100% whey) mixed in 10 oz of Diet v8 Splash at 10:00
3. Chicken and beans or chicken on salad for lunch
4. Protein power (100% whey) mixed in 10 oz of Diet v8 Splash at 3:00
5. Taco salad (no chips or tortilla), chicken breast and salad and beans, steak chili with vegies for dinner (or something like that)
If I do this, I drop 2lbs a day. When I cheat, I stay at the same weight. When I eat fast food or something horrible, I put the weight back on.
It’s amazing the difference of knowing the consequences before making choices.
So I’m starting again today. Current weight is 198 lbs. Goal for this period is 185.
October 2nd, 2008
10:12 am
[...] and simple. I basically follow the ‘rules’ set forth by Tim Ferriss of 4 Hour Work Week found here. The only difference is that I throw in a little cheese here and there. How much I really [...]
October 3rd, 2008
7:58 am
I have been on this diet very succesfully for about 5 weeks. In this time I have lost about 14lbs which I am very happy with because my cheat day sometimes lasts for 48-72 hours.
During this time I have not had any difficulty with being hungry or staying on this diet until this week. All of the sudden I’m starving all the time has anyone else had the same problem or any advice?
The only thing that I can think of is that I have let my glycogen stores deplinish and need to take a break from the diet but I’d rather not since the weight loss seems to be getting better and better.
Any advice would be greatly appreciated
Adam
October 3rd, 2008
10:37 am
I came across this site when I was looking for a way to drop a bit of weight. I had always been very fit until I had my son and had never been above a size 5/6. At 17 I was a size zero. . I didn’t see that 5/6 again though until I went on the Adkins diet hard core. I was able to go from weighing 145 to 120 in almost a months time. But as soon as I got back to where I wanted to be, I got pregnant with my daughter. It has been down hill ever since. I gained alot with her and I have had a hard time getting the weight off. I had a case of gestational diabeties with her and was told that I could run the risk of developing diabeties later in life if I wasn’t careful. I unfortunately had gone up in weight to about 165 and have been miserable ever since. It has affected my attitude, my self esteem and my health too I am sure.
So I started this on Oct 1 because it seemed pretty easy to follow…..its day 3 now and I can say that it is! I had dropped down to about 155 before I started and now I am right at 150 so 5 lbs in 3 days not too shabby!
I will be sure to check in to let everyone know how it is going, but I have read the posts from women worried that it won’t work or that they can’t do it….you can…don’t set yourself up to fail before you start. I am doing exactly as it is posted to do and I am taking suppliments as well to make sure I am not lacking anything. I have started back doing a low impact cardio workout for 20 minutes every afternoon (my knee has issues) and I take a walk with the kids in the afternoon to the park.
Week 1:
Start 155
current 150
October 3rd, 2008
12:53 pm
I had been restricting my diet for about 8 months prior to starting this diet and had lost about 10 pounds. I’ve been on a modified version of this diet for about 2 months now and I’ve lost about 20 pounds so far. It works!
October 3rd, 2008
2:09 pm
So I did this diet for about a week and all was going well, although I didn’t lose anything… And I felt TIRED all the time from no carby foods.
I like the idea, it’s easy to eat the foods, it just wasn’t working for me in the way I had hoped.
October 3rd, 2008
2:48 pm
Well Tim, I finally reached the goal! Thanks so much for this post, back in January I read it, applied it, modified it a bit, and since then, it’s been a great eating regiment. In about 6 months I was able to loose the 50 lbs I set out to achieve, you even inspired me to create my own blog for friends and family here; http://www.joshream.info
Now that I’ve accomplished the weight loss, and my degree, I’m hoping to apply some of your other principles from your book in order to find the right job.
God Bless!
October 4th, 2008
9:51 am
Have trouble digesting beans? Since I did, I modified Tim’s diet as follows:
First, if you are not already eating a similar diet, ease into this one. Your intestinal flora do much of your digestion for you, and the little bugs need 2-3 weeks to adapt to a new regimen. An easy way to do this is to eat 1 meal per day of the new regimen for about a week, then 2 meals per day for another week, then a week of 3 meals plus a snack consistent with your old diet. At that point your gut flora should be happy with the new diet, if it is appropriate for you.
Instead of beans, eat more vegetables, and include some root vegetables. I limit my consumption of potatoes and beets, since they have higher glycemic index, and always eat them with other veggies. My main root veggies are onions, carrots, sweet potatoes, turnips, and rutabagas. Parsnips have a very high GI, so I eat them only on carb days.
I occasionally eat sprouted wheat bread, which also has low glycemic index.
I do eat some dairy, but in limited amounts. I’m especially careful to limit cheese, due to its high fat content. (I would probably be better off without dairy, but am still adjusting my eating routine. When it’s convenient, I’ll stop.)
I also eat a couple of squares of chocolate every day as my coffee substitute.
I find I feel better with two carb days per week, rather than one. On the first carb day, I eat two or more large helpings of foods with high GI, such as popcorn, potatoes, or a fruit smoothie. On the second, I usually just eat one meal with carbs.
As for making the diet interesting, I cook Chinese, Thai, and East Indian food. Instead of rice, serve curry-type dishes on mounds of grated daikon, thinly sliced napa or regular cabbage, or any mild vegetable. Or serve the dishes on mashed turnips or rutabagas, or with sweet potatoes. Or simply throw a bunch of fresh veggies in 10-20 minutes before the curry gets done cooking. (The timing depends on which vegetables and how fine you chop them.)
Good cookbooks for this diet:
“The Brilliant Bean” by Sally and Martin Stone is a fantastic resource if you are eating the bean version of the diet. Many of the meat + bean + vegetable recipes make a one-dish meal equivalent to Tim’s suggested meals, but much tastier.
“An Invitation to Indian Cooking” by Madhur Jaffrey
Most of the recipies can be used as-is or adapted by adding extra veggies toward the end of the cooking period. Indian cooking is a bit labor-intensive, but you can cook big batches and eat leftovers.
“True Thai” by Victor Sodsook. Some of the best food I’ve ever eaten, and a lot of the recipes adapt easily to this diet.
“Glorious Stew” by Dorothy Ivens. Many meat + veggie recipes, some of which also include beans.
Your favorite Chinese cookbook. Either serve stirfry over veggies (steamed mixed veggies work great under a meat dish), halve the seasoning, or add enough extra veggies to the dish to double the volume, while keeping the spicing the same. (Chinese food is over-seasoned so that by the time you dilute it with rice, the seasoning will be correct. If you’re eliminating the rice and not substituting something else, you need to either reduce the seasoning or increase the amount of non-seasoning ingredients in the dish.)
Here’s one of my typical meals:
Chop half an onion and saute.
While sauteing, chop and add a carrot, then 3 chopped stalks of celery.
As the vegetables continue to saute, chop some meat into slices no more than 1″ x 3″ x 1/8″ thick. (The thickness is the critical dimension.) You can even matchstick the meat by cutting it 1/8″ x 1/8″.
When the veggies are cooked, tip them out of the pan and quickly stir-fry the meat. When it loses it exterior red color, add your choice of soy sauce, oyster sauce, and/or hoisin sauce. Stir a few more times, tip out of pan next to vegetables, and enjoy.
By cooking interesting foods, you can make this diet delicious, interesting, and fun.
Despite getting about 1/4 my usual amount of exercise for the last 2 weeks, and despite cheating with 1/4 cup of ice cream on probably half the days, I have shed about 4 pounds in 2 weeks, and my high hip measure has decreased by 1.5 inches. I look noticeably thinner, and I feel great.
Thanks for the idea, Tim!
October 4th, 2008
9:52 am
@Adam:
Hey Man, did you go out of your way to eat “naughty” stuff like a lot of candy, potato chips, fries, pizza and stuff like that?
This Is Really Crucial. I see so many people doing this and not taking their day off seriously. You HAVE to spike calories severly or your body get’s used to the amount of calories you take in over time. If not, you’re bound to end up to slow down your weight loss severly after a few weeks, completly halting it for some of us.
Another thing that came to mind, I recently found out the hard way that drinking too much diet soda (more than 1.5 Litres a day, with only one or two glasses of water in between) can result in your body craving carbs/sugar. Don’t know if that’s accurate or not, read it a long time ago, but the effect was quite tangible the day I realised this.
Anyway, I hope you get around this somehow. Before you stop altogether, I’d suggest you try adding one slice of bread within 15 minutes of completing your main meal to your diet and see how that goes. The impact on your weight loss itself should be minimal, but maybe that will help you stop the cravings.
October 5th, 2008
7:57 am
A quick question for everybody – I successfully stuck to this diet for one week before having my ‘day off’ and was able to lose about 5 pounds. Problem is that I gained ALL of it back on my day off! – and I didn’t go crazy with food on my day off either!!
Does the weight loss eventually turn from losing water weight to actual fat within the 4 weeks?
Thanks
October 5th, 2008
12:57 pm
Does anybody have any tips for someone who has to leave at 6 am and come back at 2 pm and cant eat in between
October 5th, 2008
10:19 pm
[...] I am starting a personal experiment. I am starting a new diet with the goal of loosing a few pounds, and gaining [...]
October 6th, 2008
5:03 am
Liked the article….
However, I want to suggest to its readers about the regularity aspect of this diet plan.
Being regular is the key with any diet plan.
Regards,
Vikash Kumar
October 6th, 2008
9:52 am
Just an update: I lost 5 lbs the first week, but my second week was at a stand still. I continued with this diet and lost another 5 lbs my 3rd week! Total of 10 lbs in 3 weeks. Not bad at all, esp without exercise. I want to share a recipe for what my friend calls “fajita soup”. You’ll need:
2 chicken breasts cut into small chunks marinate with a little cumin or fajita seasoning
4 cans chicken stock
1 can green beans (or frozen)
1 can rotel (I prefer mexican mix of lime and cilantro)
1 can black beans
shredded cheese
1 cup chopped onion
Saute onion and chicken until cooked. Add chicken stock and bring to boil. Drain green beans and throw into the pot, along with a can of black beans and rotel. Add salt according to your taste. Bring to a boil and cook for about 5 minutes or more if you use frozen beans. Easy one pot cooking. Add a sprinkle of shredded cheese to your bowl of soup if you like. This satisfies my hunger and keeps me going until the next meal. Good luck everyone.
October 6th, 2008
2:47 pm
[...] and simple. I basically follow the ‘rules’ set forth by Tim Ferriss of 4 Hour Work Week found here. The only difference is that I throw in a little cheese here and there. How much I really [...]
October 6th, 2008
6:15 pm
Hello Everyone:
So many newcomers–and most sound like they’re doing very well, as I too lost 14 lbs. in the first month (I started August 18th), but then hit a plateau in early September. I haven’t had any issues being weak or tired, but some days, I need to eat 5-6 of these meals for energy, especially if I’m rushing around, and since I’ve dropped driving to work (I bike or walk). I’m 137 from 155 lbs., and still feeling great, and want to get to 125–just a mere 12 lbs. away!
And I see a lot of folks worrying about weight so much, after the first astonishing sloughing off of pounds. Remember: you just shocked your body into a new, healthy lifestyle, then it will adjust, and the weight loss will be slow and steady from then on (this is a good thing; too fast and it goes into “camel mode” and starts stashing anything it can get its hands on into your fat cells. Trust.). Second, don’t weigh yourself more than 1x a week when this happens (to not get discouraged), and do so in the morning. Last, check your INCHES and pant sizes. Although I’ve only lost 4 lbs in the last 13 days, I am astonished at what old “skinny clothes” I find myself fitting into, every other day–muscle weighs more than fat, so fat is melting off inches-wise, and yet it’s slow on the scale. And, comments from people about, “Have you lost weight? You look rested/terrific” bolster my day for sticking with this lifestyle change…
If you are doing cardio and weights or resistance, this combo of foods is building a strong base for muscle mass–some in here even add some protein powder (good thing, esp. for men since they tend to lose weight at a faster rate), which is going to be my next small edition, once I get to the 125-lb. mark.
And, I see a lot of questions about squeezing in some bread products and beans that are mixed (pork n’ beans, baked beans); NO bread products are good on this diet (and don’t need them; bread is man-made) if you wish to drop weight and inches the fastest, and the mixed beans cans usually are high in sodium and lard, if not in chemicals and preservatives; so save both as “treats” if you really can’t help yourself, or omit altogether–nonprocessed food this best way to go.
Latest recipe:
Turkey casserole (square pyrex pan)
I large yellow squash, sliced thin (cutting sideways = bigger circumference)
3 cups broccoli
Garlic (to taste. I like A LOT)
Lb. of ground (lite, if possible) turkey
Pinto, navy, or black beans (pick your fave), 2 cans
1/4 c, of feta or goat cheese
Tablespoon Worchester and Soy Sauce (low sodium)
Salt, pepper
1/2 cup of water
Fry up the turkey in its own juices and the W & Soy to brown, slight pink in the middle. Add the garlic near the end (to not burn it).
Line the bottom of the casserole dish with the squash slices, sprinkle with salt, pepper, and any other spices (rosemary, dill, cumin, are all good; sprinkle to taste)
Spread turkey on top of slices; top off with beans, then broccoli, spread evenly. Sprinkle the cheese all across the top. Cover with aluminum foil. Bake at 300 for 1 hour, then check.
Okay, ringing out my latest post at 137; I’m hoping to whittle it down to at least 130 by the end of the month… (for Halloween!). Good luck everyone, and keep posting!
FunChick
October 8th, 2008
8:05 am
Hey just started this, and was wondering if this would help me get rid of my pot bellly?
I need to get back in to shape for hockey in the winter..
Thanks!
Tim
October 8th, 2008
8:23 am
I implemented the same concept in my weight loss journey. Thus i went from 201.5lbs to 184.8 ( in 5 weeks ) = 3.34 lbs a week. For me thats a great success.
Here is what is did :
Never eat bread,pasta,rice…(carbs) except the one day on weekend where you can eat anything
3 meals a day and between the meals eat fruits!!!
Every 2 day go to the gym for at least an hour.
For example
6:10 am eggs, watermelon
10 am Pine apple
12 Salad ( that is composed of salad,black olives, carrots and a olive oil,vinegar and salt
3 pm Orange
5 pm orange
7 pm Salad,fish, vegetables
9pm 1hour cardio
20 mins abs + other exercices
Voila
October 8th, 2008
8:53 am
i am in day two of this diet and i already fill light. can somebody please tell me if i can eat carrots as i really enjoy them
October 9th, 2008
12:22 pm
[...] tomorrow I am going to get back on my slow carb eating style, and slurping down the coconut oil. I have been going to the gym and swimming and [...]
October 9th, 2008
2:52 pm
Re: Cory
I started this in Feb of this year at 296 and now I am at 235. I probably could have lost faster but I have been lifting weights the whole time – good results from that as well. I have gone from a XXL shirt size and 44 inch waist to a Large (sometimes XL depending on the brand) shirt size and 37inch waist.
As far as it being cheap and easy, just but frozen everything (cooked chicken, vegetables, beans) and make your own frozen dinners in plastic containers that you can just stick in the microwave. I just pile all of that stuff in a container and maybe put some hot sauce on the veggies and I’m done. I saved a lot of money just by bringing my lunch with me to work everyday.
Good Luck, let us know how you are doing!!
I’m getting re motivated to try to get to 220 by Thanksgiving!
October 9th, 2008
7:47 pm
Not sure if it’s been mentioned, but Ezekial bread is a low GI treat – the perfect health-bread IMO.
October 12th, 2008
12:48 pm
Keep in mind one of the most important parts of weight loss is water. Overweight people tend to be dehydrated, so drinking about a gallon or so a day and avoiding soft drinks altogether would be a good idea.
October 12th, 2008
2:57 pm
I started the diet recently after having done the Burroughs Master Cleanse for a few weeks. Usually after the cleanse when eating is resumed, the weight lost is regained though you still feel much better.
This time I went right into the diet and have not gained a single pound. Actually I have lost another 4 to 5 lbs. since. I am concerned though because I am a pescetarian (fish is the only meat) and am worried about eating so much fish (mercury etc).
I love eating canned tuna and salmon. Love the flavor and the convenience. Is this a problem and does anyone have suggestions that are easy to make and maintain for sources of protein?
October 12th, 2008
10:23 pm
Can you eat things like canned soup on this plan like Campbell’s Bean with bacon? Just curious because it seeams like it would fit.
October 13th, 2008
10:51 am
Wine coolers? are they Fattening? can they be a substitute to the glass of wine?
###
Hi Yarim. Wine coolers have high sugar content and would not be a good substitute for normal red wine.
Good luck!
Tim
October 15th, 2008
6:42 pm
Hello – first off I would like to say that this diet is great. I weighed about 200 in july and started the diet in the beginning of august, and now weigh 173.
I am at school now though, so my edible options have changed a bit. I live nextdoor to a sandwich/burrito shop, and wanted to know about wheat tortilla wraps. Are these not considered “white” carbs?
I often get a burrito with:
wheat wrap
grilled chicken
peppers and onions
black beans
guacamole
Please let me know if wheat tortilla wraps are just white carbs in disguise, so I dont continue to eat this everyday!
thanks
October 16th, 2008
8:40 am
hey guys i have just completed week one of this diet and i lost 2lb. ofcourse i expected to loose more but hey i am happy with the result nevertheless and iam eiger to top this weeks performance.
can someone tell me if i can eat cabbage
October 16th, 2008
9:02 am
Quick question:
What exactly does “dramtically spiking your caloric input” mean in numbers? Eating my normal caloric needs (around 2100-2250 kcal for me), 1.5 that number, or even more on my day off?
Thanks in advance for answering.
My Results so far:
I’ve gone for about 1.5-2 times my normal caloric needs (around 2000-2200 kcal -> spike meant between 3000 and 4500 calories). Worked pretty well, but since I was eating “pure crap” (potato chips, pizza hut pizza, other random high-carb, high-sugar foods), I think also kept me from actually loosing more than a Kilogramm per Week.
On normal days, I vary my caloric intake between 600 and 1300 calories. On training days, I usually try to stay below 1800 calories as well, even though I follow your advice of eating whatever I want 1 hour after training and sometimes end up abvoe that treshhold.
Anyway, Even though I was unconciously cheating the whole first week – eating chicken with a special breading daily which I though was pretty low-carb but turned out to be lot’s of baking powder with flour – I’ve managed to loose between 3 and 4 kilogramms in the first 4 weeks.
Only been working out about once a week using 5/5 cadences and the “one-set-to-failure” principal, and only been taking a multi-vitamin + zinc & magnesium (30&450 mg on training days and the day afterwards) in terms of supplements.
I modified the diet in two aspects:
a) I allow my self about 10-25 gramms of carbs per day from salad dressings (including 8-18 gramms of sugar).
b) I eat a mixed vegatable dish of carrots and peas every day instead of the suggested legumes. Those mixed veggies have practically the same caloric structure as lentils.
Haven’t eaten a single lentil or bean so far for that matter – practically no restaurant has pinto beans on the menu around here, not even the 3 mexican places I could find.
I’ve been eating lot’s of salad and chicken/turkey breast + 1 can (285 g/110 calories) of peas+carrots every day.
I’ve also been drinking alcohol about 4 times total during those four weeks (new semester at uni always begins with an awfull lot of parties to attend), and cheated an additional 2 times by adding a small slice of pizza or 2 in the evenings when we were out (but always stayed below 1300 calories even when drinking).
So far, I’m quite satisfied with this diet – if nothing else, I’ve gotten away from the nasty habit of drinking high-sugar soft drinks (5 liters or more a week) and HATING the light versions ( I now like coke zero and love coke light caffeine-free very much, normal coke almost has no taste for me now even though I was really addicted to that stuff before).
Although I must admit that the headache from drinking more than 1 liter of light sodas (due to the aspartam) is unnerving at times.
I’m going for at least another four weeks of my current build of Tim’s diet (2x 600-800 calories, 4 times 1000-1300 calories and one spike day) before switching to a normal mid-fatt, mid-carb diet (need to watch my uric acid levels because my dad has been dealing with gout ever since he turned fourty, so going meat-only for extended periods of time might not be such a good idea).
So this stuff really works, and If I didn’t cheat and also binged 1 whole day, the evening before and the evening after the binge day (post work out though) last week instead of just the normal 24 hours, I might have lost another kg already. I’m on 83.5 kg now, 78 is my target weight, started around 88/87 (didn’t have an accurate weighing machine back then, so don’t know exactly). I’ve also gotten significantly leaner on face, arms, and even a little in the stomach area.
I might have had the same results with a normal diet watching fat and carb-intake seperately while maintaining 1200 calories per day tops, but then again this way I’m not so easily cheating and will probably have more success in the long run.
Lot’s of success to all of you trying doing this,
I’ll keep you posted.
Cheers,
Thorsten
October 17th, 2008
1:47 pm
Solution to the breakfast cereal habit: right after eating, bicycle at least 30 minutes to work. This productively uses the glucose spike, so it won’t go to fat. The ride needs to be vigorous for this to work.
October 18th, 2008
4:41 pm
I am having the hardest time losing weight. I don’t drink anything other than water and tea (no sugar or anything). I eat granola cereal with rice milk, at least one piece of fruit a day, cans of beans for lunch, stir fry veggies (small amount of olive oil) and that’s it! I don’t eat bread, potatoes, sugar, eggs, hardly eat meat and I think I’ve actually gained a few pounds in the past month! I don’t know where I’m going wrong. Either I should add meat for the protein (but I eat tofu, seeds, and nuts) or I’m just not eating enough. It’s very discouraging. I was also doing an exercise program for 3 weeks with no results. Any ideas on what I can change? My ‘day off’ would probably consist of a Quiznos sandwich! (is that not “cheating” enough?!) Thanks!
Oh right: 5’3″ 155 pounds 27 year old Female
October 19th, 2008
3:48 am
Hello, I’m a newbie in this Diet world and as a newbie, I’m gonna be trying your style:D Hope I could succeed.
October 19th, 2008
11:04 am
Hey Ilia, ever calculated the caloric load of the stuff you’re eating per day?
I mean, nuts are especially high in fat, and maybe there are other things as well in your diet that add up to a overall too high caloric load.
Other than that, if you have eaten severly too few calories in relation to your daily caloric need for a few weeks consistently, your body get’s used to getting only that much and accomodates it’s need to the intake. This only happens temporarily and you would have lost weight before, though.
You *cannot* gain weight over the course of mulitple days if you eat less calories, fat and carbs than your body actually needs, unless in water (which is again, temporarily). If I were you, I would start by calculating my daily caloric needs in one of the many calculators available on the net, and then proceed to closely examine my daily eating habits to find out if some of my foods are actually propelling me way beyond that number.
100g of nuts can have as many as 650 calories and they also have *lot’s* of fat, more than you actually need in a whole day, for example.
October 19th, 2008
12:46 pm
Fantastic information. If youn stick to this you WILL lose weight and get fat loss fast. There are many variations of this as you can read above but just dont starve yourself or you will wind up gaining weight.. this is because your body will go into starvation mode..
October 20th, 2008
11:58 am
What do you think of soybeans as a legume choice? I stay away from refined soy products, and I don’t eat meat, so soybeans seem like my best complete protein option.
October 20th, 2008
1:01 pm
I have been on this diet for 3 weeks, following it to a “T” but have only lost 2 lbs. The only thing different from the diet plan that I have done is exersice 5x a week (mostly running 3 miles and simple weight lifting) and I have a 1/2 cup oatmeal with protien powder after workout. Other than that, my meals are consistant with the plan. I don’t understand why this is not working for me as the science of it makes sense. I am 5′ 5″ and am 160. Any advice?
October 20th, 2008
4:31 pm
yea i am trying 2 lose like 20lbs so i can get a boyfriend and make my softball team so i got 2 lose it by spring or even more that would be nice :) and i take dance and i want 2 be better at it and move faster than i do so that’s y i want 2 lose like 20lbs or more can u please help me with it im trying so hard 2 not eat a lot but its sooo hard 2 do and when im at school there’s not health there i can choose so i don’t know really wut 2 eat their so i really need ur help.
October 20th, 2008
6:07 pm
Tim, I’m gonna give this diet a try for the next month or two – but I have a question.
I am a musician who spends frequent stretches of day or weeks traveling in the South and Mid-America. I am pretty sure I will be hard pressed to locate places to get legumes and vegetables for breakfast (btw, the Mexican restaurant idea is a great tip). Is there anything portable (some sort of meal bar or non-refrigerated microwave meals) that you could recommend or any other ideas you might have?
Thoroughly enjoying your site and anxiously awaiting delivery of your book,
Max
October 20th, 2008
6:12 pm
This diet is very similar to the first phase of South Beach: cutting out all carbs for the first two weeks (including fruit), “re-setting” your metabolism and sticking with healthy carbs when you do get to phases 2 and 3. It does work and is the type of diet everyone should be on anyway: lean meats, unlimitied veggies and quality carbs.
Most carbs are worthless unless you go out of your way to purchase something with real whole grains. Ezekiel bread was mentioned earlier and is a great example. Breakfast cereals are mostly bowls of sugar with added “vitamins and minerals”. Don’t be fooled by marketing and labels.
Ilia, most soy and rice milks add sugar for taste and granola usually has lots of sugar as well. I would advise against eating cereal in general, but if you do just add some kind of protein so your blood sugar doesn’t spike and crash. This is a major reason why people have cravings and exhaustion all day long.
October 20th, 2008
6:53 pm
Hey,
interesting read. I also hear a lot about Green Tea / Wu Yi Tea lately, and how it improves the immune system and benefits weight loss. Anybody tried this and might share their experience?
cheers
Jon
October 21st, 2008
8:41 pm
Does anyone here ever tried this diet and has actually lost 20 pounds? Because I think that specific diets will work only or specific people.
Now,if you have tried it,I have a few questions –
1. Is it easy?
2. How long have you been doing this?
3. How much weight have you lost?
4. If you have actually finished your 30 days,did you lose 20 pouds?Less?More?
October 22nd, 2008
9:44 am
@ Eden -
I lost 20 LBS in about 5 weeks (I’m a 5’10 male and went from 215 to 195).
But that was on the scales… I am sure I lost more in body fat as I was working out/lifting weights. There does seem to be a difference between men and women on this diet (by reading previous posts), so you really need to feel it out for yourself.
October 22nd, 2008
11:23 am
Male 31, 6’2″ Start weight 256 (heaviest I think I’ve ever been)
2 weeks in, down 8+ pounds and about an Inch around the belly (I’m positive I’ve developed muscle while burning the fat so I think I’m right on target, likely burning more like 10lb of fat and gaining 2 lb of muscle).
Only “cheated” 1x, basically had to extend my “off day” 1 meal due to being away from home and didn’t have many dining options. Attempted to make up for it by doing a little extra in my workout, so I didn’t feel as bad.
My endurance has grown quite a bit, I can jog 2-3x as far/long as when I started.
Drinking a glass of wine a night, started with White Zinfandel, as I’m not a big wine drinker, but developing a taste for it. Definitely stronger, healthier, sleeping better, acid reflux dropped, have more energy during the day, and feel better about myself. I miss my abs and hope to see them again soon ;) Best of luck to all the others out there, you can do it.
October 22nd, 2008
9:57 pm
Hi there,
thanks for your blog it is really interesting to read and i will put it into effect this week to lose weight. your tips make sense and they’re not gimmicky-which is admirable.
I was wondering what the ratios for each meal is, in terms of a plate. Is it 40% carbs, 30% fat, 30% protein? per plate?
and can i take in fruit juice that counts as a fruit serving ?
Please let me know, thank you
October 23rd, 2008
6:27 pm
Hello Everyone:
Haven’t posted since 10/6, but I’m happy to say that I’m hovering about 135, and am thin as I have been in 15 years! I feel so great that I went and voted early–ha ha! Only 15 more pounds to go… and oddly, I don’t like my “Off Days” anymore. They make me feel kinda sickly and sluggish. I “try” to hit it, but I just can’t eat bread or potatoes anymore without it sticking to my ribs and me rolling around, miserable. It’s funny, too, how I went to a restaurant last week with family, and I panicked because there was no “meat/beans/veggies” balance, until I remembered: I’m paying, so I can sub/omit, and settled with a small dinner salad to go with broiled cod and kidney beans. My family was weirded out, but I don’t care–I’m losing the weight… 10 more lbs. and I’ll be at my ideal! Soooooo excited.
Eden:
I have lost 16 since starting in late August, so I’d say that’s pretty good for month and a 1/2, fast at first, now 2 lbs. a week (your body will plateau once it adjusts, so be patient, and keep working out), and dropping. I expect to be my ideal weight (125, I am 5’6″) by Xmas or around there. And Xmas never makes me fat as I don’t like candy. But I’monna want a lot of turkey and green beans!
Nina Chopra:
I think of this as the “one cup, one girl” diet (excuse the reference, if offended). 1/2 cup to a full cup of each segment, depending on which you crave the most and how hungry you are. Normally, you won’t pass the 400-calorie mark, per meal (I eat 3xs a day on average, with boiled eggs, nuts, and hummus + veggies for filling snacks). And, you aren’t to have fruit on this diet, at all–especially to drink (this is always a bad idea, since fruit juice is LOADED with calories, not to mention chemicals. Most “contain real juice,” but aren’t 100% juice). They are high in sugar, and will affect your metabolism. After you’ve reached your idea weight, sneak fresh fruits back into the diet as treats, instead.
Welp, hope everyone’s hustling along and still losing (I see a lot of guys in here are…). Have a great week!
FC
October 25th, 2008
8:34 pm
hey guys i read this died i really like it i need to drop atlest 20 pounds for m grad pictures but problem is i am i a strict vegetarian :( any ideas ? timm ?
October 26th, 2008
2:06 pm
Great Article! I am interested in starting this diet tomorrow actually, just a few questions if u have a few minutes :)
1. What about unsweetened, fat-free yogurt? Plain yogurt? Could I add this into the mix and be safe?
2. What about cous-cous, as apposed to rice?
3. And cheese? Do you ever eat cheese?
4. And Sour Cream (I guess, over all dairy)
Thank you so much :)
October 26th, 2008
6:56 pm
Hello, i was wondering what is a good 5 day rotation for breakfast lunch and dinner, im 15 and get up at 6 AM, I need to shower, get dressed, and leave the house at 6:50 to walk to the bus, what is the best thing to do for breakfast?
October 27th, 2008
1:31 pm
Are meal replacements out of the question… I’m having a hard time eating the same thing daily. I’m only a week or so in to the diet, any suggestions on not feeling like crap?
October 27th, 2008
3:02 pm
Christina,
Dairy products have lactose in them which is a simple sugar. Tim said “no white anything” for a reason. :) Couscous has a lower calorie content than quinoa but the point is to only eat carbs within 1.5 hours of your workout (if you must).
Hope this helps.
Tim: Are the lentils you eat in the form of soup at Trader Joe’s? Or are they just basic lentils?
October 28th, 2008
6:57 am
I started this on Saturday.. I’m cooking everything in advance and basically eating about a half a cup of white beans (with onions and bell peppers), half a cup of peas, and half of chicken breast, four times a day. It keeps me very satisfied. I’m also working out 30 minutes each morning, lifting moderately heavy, sometimes light and trying to 20 minutes of cardio after that.
I was wondering, how long before you start seeing the effects? Im at about 24% body fat which I’m not sure why because I at probably less before and have been in the gym for about 6 months.
October 28th, 2008
11:59 am
hi all – started this 4/15/08 — was quite strict w/ it for the first 3 months, modified for 2, then have been back to it the past month +. Down 33+ lbs, now exercising (walk/hike & weights) – feel much better & sticking w/ it. The off day isn’t as much of a big deal b/c I just don’t feel like eating like that anymore. Sure, pizza or a burger once in a while, but not much. Removing refined sugar and white carbs has been the best thing for me — stick w/ it, just do your best!
October 28th, 2008
1:51 pm
Lucius is spot on about adhering to the diet. Too many people are asking about too many substitutions, which means they aren’t reading/getting the lifestyle diet, which is simple:
Beans (Pinto, chili, navy, lentil, black, etc.)
Meat (Chicken, turkey, fish, pork, low fat sirloin; no “red meat”)
Eggs (egg whites; I’ve found a solid brown egg is perfect and still lost weight)
Mixed or green veggies (spinach, broccoli, asparagus, lettuce, string beans, cabbage, etc.)
No fruit, dairy, bread, rice, pasta, or anything else man-made, aside from spices (and that glass of wine). Otherwise, move on and find another diet, as you’ll not lose weight by adding anything else.
When/if get bored, pinches of strong cheese, soy sauce, or other veggies (I use lots of shredded carrots, mushrooms, onions, and garlic, all natural), and get online for crockpot recipes, and make 3 types, and use freezer bags.
Easy peasy!
October 28th, 2008
9:45 pm
I am loving the results you’ve all posted. This is my second day on the diet and I feel as if I am eating too much, or is it that the beans are just filling me up?
Breakfast: 3 egg whites, cup of cooked lentils seasoned with a little garlic powder and 1/2 cup of mixed veggies, cooked.
Lunch: 1/2 can of tuna, 3/4 cup of kidney beans and 1/2 cup of mixed veggies, cooked
Snack: Sugar Free Diet Jello
Dinner: Pork Carnitats with 3/4 cup of lentils, and 1/2 cup canned corn
I thought I read that portion control wasn’t a concern. Can anyone help confirm that I am on the right path? Those of you who have lost 20lbs+, were any of you stict with portions or did you eat until full, sometimes having more than one plate full?
Thanks!
October 31st, 2008
2:04 pm
Hello,
Just started this Monday October 27th, 2008 and I thought I would do some updates to let people know how it’s going for me.
I have tried EVERY DIET and was dieting when I came across this. My biggest problem with diets of the past: being hungry. So far I have found I am not hungry at all, and I am actually eating way less then I did before, which is odd because I love food. I also love beans, so this is really very good for me.
I am really enjoying all the food on this diet and not missing my usual treats. I can’t beleive that I don’t even crave them at all; not even chocolate! Maybe some poutine on my cheat day though….
I find the easiest way to eat is to just put all the items in a bowl and mix it up and eat it kinda like a chunky meat, bean, veg stew (cook the meat/soy before of course). This also makes it easy for work because I just make extra and then put it in a container to heat up the next day for lunch :-) yum!
Note: I am a lacto-ovo vegetarian (I eat dairy and eggs but no fish or other meat) so instead of the meat protein I’m using eggs whites and soy products. Soy products tend to be higher in carbs, but I choose the ones with the most protein and least carbs/breading. This may or may not slow down progress, but that is okay as long as I lose something.
Start: Monday October 27, 2008
Sex: Female
Height: 5’6
Start Weight: 166 lbs
First Weigh in (Oct 31, 2008): 162.8 lbs (horray digital scales…)
Total Lost so far: 3.2 lbs! (in 4 days of dieting)
Goal 1: 156 lbs
I am happy with this, especially since I was dieting already so I’m thinking this is more than just water weight. Also, I can already feel it in my clothes. I have decided to set small goals instead of saying “I want to lose 35lbs” I figure I will have better luck going 10 lbs at a time and rewarding the small victories. Goal 1 reward: New Dress for Company Christmas Party at the end of November – hope I make it!
Good luck to all of you :-)
November 1st, 2008
10:47 am
The best way to lose weight quickly without exercise is to keep carbs below about 25 grams a day. The carbs in the beans will hinder your losses unless you are working out to burn them off. Granted, 3-6 servings of beans a day is still below about 150 grams of carbs, but you still have to burn that off somehow. Technically, this is close to a low-carb diet.
But for really accelerated weight loss, do this: Cut out the beans until you reach goal weight. Eat lean protein (truly lean: chicken breast, turkey, fish, shellfish, pork loin, eggs and egg whites) in unlimited quantities. Eat non-starchy green veggies in amounts that total less than 25 carbs per day (this is easy to do and you will be stuffing yourself silly). That’s basically it. Sorry, but you won’t be able to keep weight ON with this plan. It is the fastest fat loss program out there, short of Stillman’s, which is simply lean protein and NOTHING else.
The beans should be added as you get close to goal and as you start working out more. But for weight loss you have to see to believe? A modified Stillman’s is still the best.
Now back to our regularly scheduled blog thread.
November 1st, 2008
9:48 pm
Unpalatable as it may sound, this eating the same foods day in day out is excellent for weight loss and goal weight maintenance. It takes out the guesswork and uncertainty of “what will I/we eat tomorrow”.
My (fit and toned almost gym rat) partner and I live on lean meats, fruit, veggies, grains, legumes, low fat milk and yogurt and I have no trouble maintaining my goal weight and feeling great.
Once a week, ok maximum twice, I have a cheat meal that generally has a serious pizza component. The mantra I like is “nothing tastes as good as being slim feels”.
November 2nd, 2008
3:06 pm
I have no way of getting food that is healthy between 6:50 am through 2:15 because i go to high school and all they serve is white carbs, should i not eat anyhing? or have a really big breakfast
November 3rd, 2008
10:35 am
Juan,
It isn’t good to go without eathing for that long, so I would suggest you eat a good sized breakfast and bring something with you for lunch. I know it can be hard to bring a lunch from home when everyone else is pigging out on chips and fries, but you have to decide what is more important: loosing weight or feeling a bit silly eating a “home” lunch. Since you are on this site, I think loosing weight is important to you.
I have noticed that eating the beans cold is kinda tasty, so you may not have to worry about heating up your lunch. Also, if you are serious about wieght loss, take the time to prepare your lunches the night before. That way you won’t be rushed and have to eat something not on the plan.
Some “take with you” lunches:
-Tuna mixed with beans and veggies
-A couple hard boiled egg whites (one with yolk for taste if you like), hummus (chick pea dip) and raw veggies for dipping
-Taco Salad (minus the taco of course). Brown some lean ground turkey, mix with taco seasoning mix. Add black/pinto (refried) beans, tomatoes, salsa, lettuce, gaucamole. I find this very good cold and I oftem make it for dinner and eat the left overs the next day.
I usually rotate between these types of meals (I’m a vegetarian, so my “meat” is the fake kind, but I make the above items for my boyfriend who loves meat and he is quite happy). If you can heat up your food, then there are a lot of other options as well.
Hope that helps and please do eat while at school you need energy to concentrate!
November 3rd, 2008
3:01 pm
Okayyyy :] If I Eat Cereal In The Mornings Is That Gonna Make You Gain More Weight??? =o Cuzz My Mummy MAKES Me Eat A Breakfast Thingity In The Mornings And My Only Choice Is Toast [[But Thats White Carbohydrates]] Or Cereal [[Cocoa Puffs]] Soooo…Is That Bad? O.O And I Read Somewhere That Breakfast Should Be Your Biggest Meal, Then Let The Foot Narrow Down A Little And Eat The Least At Supper. BTW THANK YOU SO MUCH FOR YOUR INFORMATION!!! [[Why That Made Me Sound Mighty Intelligent]] =D Lol. [[Not Really]] But Thank You Alot!!! :D
November 4th, 2008
4:31 am
[...] I am happy to say, however, that I did not cave to the carbs, the white carbs, that is. I have been trying to follow the “No white carb diet” as described by Tim Ferris on his blog here http://www.fourhourworkweek.com/blog/2007/04/06/how-to-lose-20-lbs-of-fat-in-30-days-without-doing-a… . [...]
November 6th, 2008
1:19 am
I’m going to try this diet, a little nervous though.
My boyfriend is one of those ppl who can eat whatever he wants and not gain one pound…stupid genes….he likes to eat fast food and junk food. When we eat dinner together, how can I control my cravings for the food he’s eating compared to what I’m eating?
I’m 5’6 and 194 pounds…I used to weigh 150 2 years ago and looked great! Now I’m chubby and hate it!
Any suggestions for first time dieters? Working out isn’t a problem, I do it regulary, it’s my food intake that’s a problem.
November 6th, 2008
11:44 am
Ayame: Yes, breakfast should be a good sized meal. If your only options are toast or cereal, try asking your mom to buy you whole grain bread and cereal made with whole grains. Or even instant oatmeal is okay as well. These items are not part of this diet, but if they are your only choices then whole grain is best. The reason: whole grains provide fibre (good for weight management) and are digested slowly, which will keep you more satisfied. If you can use items that are allowed on this diet, egg white omlettes with veggies and beans are good and provide a lot of nutrition. You can even make it the night before and zap it in the microwave.
Danielle: I have found that telling my boyfriend about my diet and what I want to do has made him very supportive. I have even asked him to help me if I am going to fall off the wagon by saying “is that on your diet?”. It sounds annoying but it really helps. If you decide to do this, don’t get mad when he says something! Also, he used to suggest fast food items and buy me junk food at the store that I might like, but I asked him to only buy the stuff he likes and not make suggestions to me about my “off limits” food.
On the other hand, boyfriends and husbands can sabotage diets on purpose. The reason for this is usually the fear that once you loose weight and like yourself more that other men will be more attracted to you and steal you away. If this is the case, be flattered and reasure him that you love him and that you are wanting to loose weight for yourself, not to attract other men.
To control your cravings, make sure there is only enough “off limits” food for your boyfriend to eat at dinner, since your dinner will be different. That way if you want to eat the “off limits” food you will be cutting into his dinner….which he probably won’t like very much! I also find that doing something with my hands (scrapbooking, reading, knitting) or drinking a large cup of herbal tea, helps control the “munch” urge when he is eating.
If you accept that you two will be eating different meals from each other than things will be a lot easier for you. I’m used to it (I’m vegetarian, boyfriend is not) and it only takes a little extra effort. Good luck.
November 7th, 2008
1:18 pm
I feel there are more guys doing this diet, is it a good diet for women to do as well?
November 7th, 2008
7:17 pm
Wow….I just started reading Tim’s book and am about half way done. my stumble button took me to this site about a year ago but today I came to it intentionally. I’d just like to say that for someone who checks his e-mail once every monday he sure managed to follow up on the responses for quite a while. …And The Four Hour Work Week is a great book!
November 7th, 2008
8:34 pm
Hi!
I’m desperate to lose weight. I eat around 750 calories everyday, but I’ve been bingeing this week and last week (let’s say one 24hr period at a time). I don’t do cardio, but walk about 5-6 miles a day. I’m lacto-ovo as well. I was wondering, if I wanted to try this, could I use fake soy meat, soy milk and protein powders and such? What about tortillas made from flaxseeds? Or oatmeal/bran?
November 8th, 2008
12:06 am
Dude those pictures arent that good -am not saying that they cant be tasty-, but look like someone vomited their meals.
Why dont you work a bit on the presentation? food is “eaten” 78% through ones eyes.
take care
aru.
November 8th, 2008
1:11 pm
[...] of fried.. skipping out on rice… You can take a look at this article for some guidelines How to Lose 20 lbs. of Fat in 30 Days… Without Doing Any Exercise – The Blog of Author Tim Fer… throw in lots of cardio and some strength training to tone. I have been following it somewhat [...]
November 8th, 2008
1:31 pm
Danielle, one key component of getting the weight off is not to go hungry. Stick to lean proteins and green veggies and eat as much as you want of these, and you will still lose because your calorie levels simply won’t be as high as you think they are. Lean protein is filling. If you don’t eat any carbs, you’ll reach ketosis and your appetite will decrease phenomally, which will naturally lower your food intake. That’s how fat burning is accelerated – by not putting carbs on board in the fir place.
One thing you can do with the boyfriend is make sure both of you are eating the same foods at dinner together, with the addition of a carb for him. (If not beans, then something else.) Don’t keep any off-plan foods in the house – none!! Stick to the same few foods and mix them up like Ferriss says.
If you have a partner who sabotages your weight loss efforts, they need a reminder about why it’s important to YOU. If they can’t support you, find another partner. There’s no excuse for an issue like your personal health to be undermined by a loved one. This jive about “they’ll get jealous” is just that – it’s b.s. and is not acceptable. If they are insecure or have weak ego defenses, they should work it out in a therapist’s office, not on their partner whom they supposedly love.
One way to keep on track, though, is to make clear that you don’t want non-plan foods in the house unless they will be eaten fairly soon by your partner. And leftover off-plan foods should be tossed or otherwise disposed of–but not in your mouth!
Good luck! You can still get some exercise with very low carb – walking, some strength training – while you are shedding the fat. Nobody who isn’t training vigorously though needs many carbs anyway, so cut them back as far as you can until you get closer to goal. Lean protein and veggies will help you sail through your weight loss.
November 9th, 2008
9:05 pm
Hi all.
I have to say…I’ve changed the way I’ve eaten before, as well as had a trainer kick my butt everyday, but nothing has changed my appearance as fast this diet. I’ve never been on an official “diet” before, so this is all new to me. I started this Tuesday and have lost 3 pounds. I’m a woman and 5’3″ and started at 139 pounds and am now at 136. I’m not saying these are the easiest meals to eat, but I just add salsa to everything, and I’m good! I do a lot of “skillets” and “omlet” type of meals…I like to mix everything together, and it’s not that bad. I also do try and workout atleast 30 – 60 minutes everyday, but I tend to build muscle fast, and wouldn’t be surprised if that changes my outcome a little bit. I’m not so worried about the weight as my physical appearance, but for those who don’t work out…you’ll feel a difference.
After the 1st day, I woke up feeling lighter around the midsection (my problem area), and after 3 days, I felt great! I’m on my cheat day today, but don’t seem to really be craving much of anything. I’m off to Cabo on the 2nd of December and would like to be around 120 when I leave.
The hardest thing about this diet for me is I’m a carb-o-holic. I could eat noodles & rice for every meal!!! But, today, I’m really not craving them too bad, as I assumed I would.
Like Tim said…this isn’t supposed to be easy. I’m excited to see what I look like and how I feel. I’ll post an update next week.
Good luck to all who are on it now! KEEP IT UP!
Sami
November 10th, 2008
1:52 am
Hi,
Is “besan” flour (chickpea/garbanzo flour) OK on this diet?
Its relatively high in protein, but not sure if it qualifies in a low carb diet?
Thanks!
November 10th, 2008
5:57 pm
Hey…is it bad if you don’t eat until supper time?(supper is roughly around like 5 o’clock.) if it is… what’s so bad about it?
November 10th, 2008
10:54 pm
what should vegeans have for breakfast?
November 11th, 2008
10:13 am
This article is logical and full of common sense–something our populations seems to lack nowadays. I managed to lose about 25 pounds of weight from trimming back on breads and other grains, eating more protein-rich foods, and drinking smoothies. They’re filling, fast to make, and provide up to four servings of veggies/fruit per day.
November 11th, 2008
12:28 pm
Any one have any ideas to satisfy sweet cravings?
November 11th, 2008
1:49 pm
hey guys. started this today and have found it fairly easy so far.went shoppin for beans, veg and chicken. did’nt eat much throughout the day but bought a steamer and had rather big dinner (very full now!)
i would also like to know if there is anything to satisfy a sweet craving? these only kick in at night so i figure if i go to bed it’l stop !
weight today 181 lbs….will post final result after 4 weeks
good luck x
November 11th, 2008
7:24 pm
Great post. But having a diet seems to be a problem with lot of people. You can stop someone eating delicious food that have lot of calories that result to gain weight. Having some exercise I suggest will really help to lose weight. Keep it up. Thank you
November 11th, 2008
7:45 pm
HANNAH: I promise I am not just saying this, but my mom only ate one meal a day and as she got older she put on weight, and to this day she still struggles to loose weight. Only eating one meal a day will slow down your metabolisim and your body will go into a survival stage and as soon as you eat that one meal it will store it as fat…hence the weight gain over time. Don’t do it. Even if you just graze on veggies through out the day until dinner, that’s better than nothing.
CAROLINE: I have the same problem with sweet tooths! It sucks with this diet…won’t lie.
I usually will eat some bubble gum…like that double bubble stuff or bazoka gum…sweet gum like that. Fresca soda (or any diet soda) works too, it helps curve the sweet tooth as well, no calories or carbs…double bonus!
November 11th, 2008
9:41 pm
Hiya Tim!
I have started following the diet that show’s in the Website-box. The article is called ’Fighting Conventional Wisdom in Nutrition’ and it talks about the carbs that make you fat. I think it was very interesting and after 2 weeks I have started feeling changes in my body! Unfortunately, I am unable to contact the author of that article, and because his and your dieting view’s seem to be a lot similar, I thought I could ask these few general questions from you:
1) Asian people eat rice daily, even several times, but they are not generally fat. How come? Is whole grain/ dark rice an exception?
2) Fruits are good, because it has soluble fibers that are like big brooms that move through the digestive system, sweeping up the debris, absorbing liquids for bulk and moving things through- including cholesterol, bacteria, and waste. True?
3) Bananas are said to be bad, but they are also fruits, which are supposed to be good. How does it differ from the others?
4) Are fruit juices a bad choice? They have a lot of natural sugar, but if any kind of sugar is bad, wouldn’t it make them the same as soft drinks, which have the same amount of added sugar?
5) Why can’t we eat corn and fresh potatoes, after all, they are ‘normal food’, which was also eaten by our ancestors?
6) I have drunk lots of milk all my life and love it; it has kept my teeth nice and my bones strong from injuries. I cannot ever imagine stopping, no matter how sugary (lactose) it is. Can it really be that bad, if I follow the diet in all other ways? Is Lactose really a fat gain cultrate, which it is tough for your body to digest?
7) Does the amount of salt, pepper and other ‘dry’ spices/ herbs add the unhealthiness of a food?
8) What about rye bread (=dark)? And oatmeal/ porridge?
9) Evening Primrose Oil 500mg gel caps from Costco have been recomended for starting a diet. I however, live in Europe, Scandinavia and we do not have a product called that, so what would be the substance or the ‘raw material’ I should be looking for, to replace them?
10) What do you think about the following arguments, which have been presented by famous health WebPages:
-Eating 1-2 meals a day will make you gain weight quicker, than eating small portions several times a day.
-Drinking exessive amounts of water boosts up weight loss.
-Eating at late in the evening or before going to bed, will make you gain weight quicker.
-The Stilman’s Diet (http://www.lowcarb.org/stillman.html) is the most effective diet.
-Eating quickly will make you gain weight quicker, than if you took more time with your meal.
- Skipping meals is bad, because not eating signals your body to pump up its fat storing machine. Your body was designed to protect you, so when you don’t eat for several hours, your body perceives a famine coming.
-Eating carbohydrates is not the problem. Sugar, being white sugar, brown sugar, raw sugar, any kind of refined sugar, refined flour, processed and de-mineralized packaged food is the thing making you fat.
11) Extreme fat burner pills, ab-belts etc. do not work, so the only way you can eat whatever you want and stay in shape, is to exercize more than you take in (calories). This means alot, suitable mostly for atheltes and the ones doing sports every single day. True?
12) Isn’t your point of view a bit like the Atkins Diet (www.atkins.com)?
So, that’s about it! I would really really appreciate it, if you could answer my questions and help clear my head a little.
Looking forward into a better and a healthier life :)
Warmest wishes;
Anna
November 12th, 2008
3:30 pm
okay, i said i would post final result but i’m questioning this diet already:S
I’ve just completed day 2 and with all the veg and stuff you’d think I could have produced a number two by now!!wrong!! i checked the scales this morning to see if i was on track and they read the same, but hey it’s only been a day or two and I haven’t been toilet yet(sorry too much info).
Hopefully tomorrow I’ll see a result of some kind :)
II do I will definitly be posting something more positive, just wondering if anyone else has had a slow start?
I’ve stuck to this 100% so far which is an achievement because every other diet I’ve given up after looking at cake. It’s in front of me now, and I don’t even want it yaaaaaaaay!
Good luck anyways, an answer to the above would be much appreciated
x
November 12th, 2008
7:31 pm
is deer meat ok for this diet
November 12th, 2008
7:33 pm
I found this to be a great diet. And i love how there is one day of the week that you can go out of your way to eat chocolate, etc.
it keeps the week interesting, at least for me.
THANK YOU. :D
November 13th, 2008
8:57 am
Why so many questions? Either follow the plan or don’t.There are many ways to lose weight. Just find out what will work for you. Bottom line, you are eating too much and not exercising you are not going to lose weight. Find a goal and stick to it.
November 14th, 2008
12:48 am
I’ve been putting of starting this since I’m a wimp and can’t drink my coffee black. So, I quit caffeine instead. Drastic? Yes. It’s just what works for me. The added bonus is that my craving for sugar has dramatically reduced. Interesting.
I made a great black bean soup tonight w/ onion and cilantro in prep for starting this diet Monday. I’m giving myself the weekend to recover from the caffeine withdrawal, which actually hasn’t been that bad. I think its mostly state of mind.
November 14th, 2008
12:31 pm
I need to lose 20 pounds-and I already lost 10 pounds but its this last 10 pounds that won’t go away. the first 10 vanished in a three weeks and now I can get these last 10 go-I have tried this diet-I need to lose 5 pounds by Thanksgiving which is in 10 days! And the other 5 before I start my winter break (I’m a jun. in college) Please someone help. This is what I have been eating to try to lose:
B-30 Grapes
L-15 carrot sticks, tbsp of peanut butter
S-15 soy low fat soy crisps
D-30 Grapes, 2 low fat granola bars
November 15th, 2008
4:34 pm
hi. I’m 14 and I have a BMI of like 18%. I need to lose this fat on my stomach but my parents and siblings are worried and don’t understand that I need to lose it! They think I’m starving myself but I’m just trying to cut off on the white bread. How do I go on your diet without eating the bad stuff to appease my family?
November 16th, 2008
10:44 am
First off… Tim, love your book, it is an inspiration and I have it with me nearly all the time. For a long time I had wanted the lifestyle put forth in this book, but did not know how to materialize, so it was really perfect that I came across your book…
Ok, second..
Tim…. help!
I started the diet 3 weeks ago and here is what has happened…
After week 1, I lost 6 lbs.
After week 2, I gained 1 lb.
Today, the end of week 3, I have lost 1 lb… so I am where I was post week 1, weight wise.
I have stuck to the diet, *although I suppose a major confounding factor could be that I started the geek to freak muscle building program – I just find it hard to believe that I am matching fat loss for weight gain, pound for pound. (which is why I am now also measuring body fat %)
I also measure myself the day after my cheat day, and although it is a “dieters gone wild day”, I may have over done it yesterday, eating two In-N-Out burgers at 11 pm. So I have decided to do my splurging earlier in the day, at least not close to bed.
Any tips would be awesome.
Thanks,
Alex
November 16th, 2008
12:38 pm
Deer meat should be fine. It’s very lean meat.
November 17th, 2008
2:05 pm
Hi Tim,
Great post! I especially like the “color coding” of the carbs idea. This works great for people who want things simplified.
I’ve long been an advocate of the “cheat day” principle. I’ve found it to normally have one of two effects; either the dieting person finds it a weekly “gustatory utopia” or they slowly (and surprisingly) find an aversion to junk food begin to be realized on that day of the week. This usually happens due to an unfolding “addiction” to the better bodily feeling that clean eating provides during the other six days.
The result? The prevention of “down regulating” might eventually require a disciplined effort; not a bad place to be – really.
Loved your book; I must have gone through three hi-lighter markers.
Thanks,
Scott
blog.hardbodysuccess.com
November 17th, 2008
8:10 pm
I have actually experienced the same effect when doing the “free for all” weekends. Eventually it got to the point that I realized how crappy the burgers and pizza made me feel so it kind of worked itself out really.
November 17th, 2008
11:00 pm
EMMA – Please re-consider your current diet plan. You are barely eating any calories and the only protein you are consuming is 1 tbsp of peanut butter a day (plus maybe a bit from the soy crisps)! This is extremely unhealthy and your metabolism will slow down drastically to conserve whatever it has left in the body (and you will not lose any weight). Try a plan like Tim lists above, it is still balanced and provides enough calories for your body to function properly.
STEPH – I don’t know if you mean BMI of 18 or body fat percentage of 18 but both are on the lower end of the spectrum for women. Maybe you could ask your family to buy a healthier type of bread (whole grain like Ezekiel) and not cut it out completely.
November 18th, 2008
12:57 am
Hi, I am looking to lose about twenty pounds just like this diet plan lays out, but I am nervous on not being able to follow through with it. I get constant cravings and I have the same Scandanavian genetics as you, Tim. I just threw away all of my carb foods and now I only have fruits and veggies left. My question is, how do you get past the cravings? Do you simply eat a ton of veggies, which has significantly less calories? And if you do so, doesn’t that equal to the same amount of calories, or is it because of the type of foods you’re eating that you lose the weight?
November 18th, 2008
3:55 am
Having just recently discovered this site, perhaps this is dealt with elsewhere, -and if so, apologies – but I wanted to add:
regular intake of healthy fats is also important. A spoonful of flax oil here, some avocado there, almonds and walnuts a little everywhere…your body will thank you. Just mentioning this as it is not listed above.
And yeah, as Denise is implying, don’t be tempted to try and get even better results by eating even less. :)
November 18th, 2008
10:52 am
So..
I weighed myself the FOLLOWING day (two mornings after cheat day) and I was 5 pounds down – so like I suspected it was the two double cheeseburgers at 11 pm that did me in :). From now on I will end my cheat day at 6-7pm.
I’m 3 weeks in and 10lbs down, and I’ve also done some weight lifting so there might be some muscle pounds gained in there. I’m going to keep at the diet, it seems to be working…
November 18th, 2008
1:43 pm
Denise,
I mean BMI not body fat. And I heard that for a teenager, their BMI and body fat is different than with a grown woman.
Well, even though my mom and the rests of my family were kind of skeptical about me doing it, I tried Tim’s diet. It’s only been like 1 1/2 days and I’ve already lost one pound….that’s amazing. This diet also fills me up unlike just eating carbohydrates all day. Instead, it feels like I’m eating pure protein. It also feels like I’m finally getting all the nutrition I need.
November 19th, 2008
8:16 am
Hi Tim (if you’re still reading these posts) and to everyone here who have inspired me to change my eating habits (once again sadly). I’m an average 37 yr old mother (18 yr old daughter) who is 5’6″ and currently weigh 168lbs. I wear between a size 10-12 now. My goal is to lose 30lbs of fat. I naturally have a more muscular build….I don’t “exercise” per say especially right now as it’s REALLY cold here in MD and I have some knee and back issues at tis time. I am a professional dog groomer (so I’m lifting and bending and on my feet for hours each day) and I raise and show standard poodles so the everyday care of several dogs requires alot of movement. I also have horses and other pets so I am in no way “inactive”. I started my new way of eating a week and a half ao and started at a weigh in of 171.8lbs (digital Weight Watchers scale ..first thing in the am). I guess I’m a bit discouraged already (yes yes I know…typical woman lol) because I thought I would have lost more by now. Naturally I read how many folks have lost so much in such a short timeand I wonder what I need to change….or if i just need more patience. I am being VERY strict…even my cheat day wasn’t all that bad.
Here’s been a recap of the last week and a half.
Breakfast is a whole egg and one egg white….usean omlet fry pan with a hint (tsp maybe) of garlic infused olive oil just to coat the pan. While it’s setting in the pan I add a little salsa for flavor…maybe a tbls or two. With the egg I have 3/4 cup of fat free refried beans. honestly…I could eat this all day….I LOVE the taste.
I also made a huge batch of lentil chili which is basically lentils,,,chili powder, a little tomato paste….can of fire roasted tomatoes….can of black beans, chopped onion and green pepper and a little bit of corn for more texture. I usually eat this for my 2nd and 3rd meal. Sometimes just in a bowl and other times I’ll make a salad and plop the chili over some mixed greens of romaine and raw spinach. With the salad I’ll use a smidge of fat free salad dressing (tbls or so) of a vinagrette. Sometimes with a baked chicken thigh shredded on top….sometimes without.
For my last meals of the day I have some sort of green vegetable….either cooked spinach, peas, green beans, mixed veggies, or brocolli. Also 1/2 can of blackbeans. With that I’ll have either a 4-5oz porton of salmon fillet (my FAV fish)….a similar portion of chicken breast or lean pork. No beef yet but planned to add once I get to the grocery store again.
Liquids have been tons of water which I don’t mind and a few green hot teas mainly to warm me in the am and at night. I do love wine and have a few nice bottles of chianti classico reserve I could crack open but have been battling a sinus “thing” since last week and thought it might had to my headaches right now.
I eat when I’m hungry and I’m quite full after each meal…..the only “cheat” thing I have done is grab 2 or 3 Utz Honey Wheat Braided Twists when I feel I need a snack. they do have unbleached wheat flour, whole wheat flour but figured that wasn’t under the “white” catagory. A serving size is 7 stix for 110 calories, 1.5g of fat and 1g of fiber. Again, I only have 2 of them with a hint and I mean you can barely taste it smidge of peanut butter (maybe a 1/4 tsp or less).
Ok guys……for those who have lasted through this long boring post, any thoughts or comments for me? I did a little modeling (catalong/advertisment stuff) in my 20′s…I am not being realistic with thoughs of looking that that again. I do however want to “feel” better and want to get into a size 5/6 which I don’t think is unrealistic for my height/build.
HELP :-)
Lisa
November 19th, 2008
11:42 am
ali walen: Read the other blog entries “Why a calorie isn’t a calorie” and the eating study linked to at the beginning.
It explains that rapid weight loss isn’t all about caloric intake but what your body needs and doesn’t need.
Once you lose the weight (by strict adherence to the simple rules), then a balanced diet without white carbs will keep the weight off.
This plan is for rapid weight loss, then re-introduce low amounts of sugar (just not in the morning) through natural foods like fruits.
November 19th, 2008
1:29 pm
Hi all!
I have to tell you all that I did this diet back in May through til my brother-in-laws wedding & it worked perfectly! I looked quite good in my black strapless gown…not as good as I would have if I would have found this diet sooner! I started the diet at 195 and got down to 174.
Life happened & the weight slowly (this is since June) crept back up…I am almost starting all over again. The idea behind this diet isn’t just to get your weight down, it’s to more or less re-structure your eating. Cheat days can become cheat weeks & cheat months all to easily, esp with T-day next week! After the wedding, I never made a solid plan to return to this eating “life style” and so, I stopped taking care of myself, which is not good.
The point is, if you find yourself in my boat, ever, just get back into it…make that time for you, to prepare your meals so you know what you’re putting into your body. You have one life & one body…and personally, I do not want to live another moment where I am not taking better care of myself. Here’s to a final round 2! (Now where’s that glass of wine?)
5’6 – 187
Intermediate Goal: 170
Goal: 150
To sum it up, this is a great “diet” but can be much more than that. I intend to use this as my “life style” eating regime. For those new to this, follow it strictly…keep dairy out as much as you can & only embrace the carbs (sugar & starch) 1x a week. The weight will come off very efficiently…the more you have to lose, the faster it will come off, so don’t despair if you don’t see a net loss of 5lbs in a few days. If you’re looking for strict weightloss, don’t touch a weight…try some light cardio…brisk walking, light jog, an in-home walking tape. If you don’t care about so much the weight, but want to see inches drop with weight (which will be more gradual), light-moderate weights, 20 min, 3x per week in addition to a light cardio program.
Good luck everyone!
November 20th, 2008
3:11 am
[...] posts on physical optimation and body games: How to Lose 20 lbs. of Fat in 30 Days… Without Doing Any Exercise From Geek to Freak: How I Gained 34 lbs. of Muscle in 4 Weeks The Science of Fat-Loss: Why a [...]
November 20th, 2008
12:07 pm
Day 24
———-
12 lbs down!
November 20th, 2008
3:30 pm
Alex,
Has your strength increased whilst going to the gym and following this plan? Also, can you put a breakdown of the gym routine you follow?
Thanks
AJ
November 21st, 2008
10:56 am
Could I eat grapefruit in this diet? I heard that it has weight loss properties as well as tofu. Could I also eat like whole grain bread? Would that add to weight gain?
November 21st, 2008
11:06 am
Steph….. I think from what I understand, no fruit is allowed. Just veggies (green for the most part), legumes (black beans, pinto, lentel etc) egg whites (1 yolk allowed for flavor), and small portions of a lean meat protein such as pork, chicken, beef, fish. Noting else.
I do however add some salsa for added flavor and a “hint” of a garlic infused oil for flavor when baking. I’ll use a little kosher salt and fresh garlic for flavoring as well.
I myself am just beign impatient I suppose…..I started at 171.8 and almost 2 weeks later I am at 166.8 (as of this am). I drink ALOT of water and hot tea(green) and am full all the time. I’d like to see more weight off but will be happy with what I get I suppose. I plan to continue this for 6 weeks….then slowly start to add some fruit and other veggies (“maybe” some whole grain bread or whole grain pasta later on).
Lisa
November 23rd, 2008
12:00 pm
Hi everyone,
I have tried sugar free jello for sweet cravings while on this diet. It really helps for me.
I am down 7 lbs. in 3 weeks and my cravings for sweet stuff and fast food are pretty much gone. Good luck to anyone who is trying it… It is the only thing that has worked for me and I have tried a lot of things.
November 23rd, 2008
2:45 pm
So, I started this way of eating one week ago. I haven’t weighed myself because doing that makes me crazy. I think that once my body gets to where I want it, I’ll then weigh myself. No use having an unrealistic weight goal based on an arbitrary number. Anyway, I like the plan, except yesterday was my cheat day and I went way overboard and went to sleep feeling guilty and woke up feeling guilty and stressed and bloated. Any advice, thoughts?
November 23rd, 2008
5:38 pm
So you can only add fruit when you’re at you’re goal weight? And when Tim says that you can stuff your face with bad stuff for a day, does he mean like a literal 24 hours or like 3 meals kind of day or like just a day? Because yesterday I didn’t eat bad stuff at breakfast and lunch but I did at dinner and today I did it til’ dinner(except at breakfast because I like eating healthy at breakfast regardless). That would be a literal day.
Also, can I include chili peppers and really hot and spicy Indian food and currys in this diet?
November 23rd, 2008
8:43 pm
Tim, thanks for posting this. I like that you share useful information, even when it may not seem to be directly related to your book or what you are known for.
To the skeptics, I say just try it and see if it works. This is real, healthy food and almost certainly better for you than whatever junk you are eating now (assuming you are overweight).
I like that it’s “boring”. Less thought involved; I save the creative thinking about food for the cheat days.
I’m down 9 lbs in 20 days on this, and although that’s a little slower than 20 lbs in 30 days, it’s pretty fast for me based on previous diets.
I’m not hungry at all- some days I have to remind myself to eat the 4th meal.
As a comparison, I was on a name brand diet where they ship the food to you (not sure if Tim would want me mentioning brand names) for several months this year, was frequenty hungry despite eating 6 or 7 times a day, and loss less total weight those months than the 3 weeks doing something much like Tim describes here. I think that’s because it was all processed foods, high carbs, low protein, the opposite of this.
Thanks.
November 24th, 2008
1:59 am
Hi All!
Just a few suggestions:
1) First and foremost, there are some amazing success stories above, but if you are “just” losing 2-3 lbs. of fat per week, that is still more than most physiology textbooks will say is possilbe! So be pleased with your results and stay the course.
2) I do not recommend fruits for this diet. Fructose is processed uniquely in the body and interferes with fat loss. An orange in the morning won’t totally ruin the program, but juice is not recommended. Too easy to get added preservatives, sweeteners, and other nonsense; and too easy to drink calories.
3) Spices, herbs, salsa, and other flavoring without added sugar is fine. If you’re eating spicy Indian food, just remember that white rice is a no-no.
Best of luck and happy Thanksgiving to you and yours!
Pura vida :)
Tim
November 24th, 2008
2:02 am
By the way — yes — I make an exception for holidays (one day each) for Thanksgiving, X-mas, etc. Just tone down that week’s Saturday (or other designated free day), exercise a bit more, and you’ll be fine.
One day for Thanksgiving shouldn’t turn into 4 if you can avoid it! Go nuts, but keep it limited to 24 hours per week, if possible.
Much love to all,
Tim
November 24th, 2008
9:57 am
Can I eat yogurt on this diet too? =D Or could I substitute some foods for the foods in this diet? Like could I substitute a grapefruit for the vegetable part of my meal?…..well….actually…I guess fruits just aren’t allowed except on Saturdays….*sniffle* I LOVE FRUITS!!!! well, this diet has worked though. Just in one week I went from 106 to 102. That means if I keep this up, I’ll probably reach my goal weight before this month. But right now I’m pretty much to my goal weight (100 lbs.) and there is still fat on my stomach….especially on the front of my stomach. So, I’m thinking that maybe I need to weigh even less….maybe….like 90 or 95….When I get there and if I still have fat on my stomach…then I am so going to scream lol
November 24th, 2008
10:03 am
Oh, and I’m SO GLAD that I can eat Indian food. What I’d do without it….I have NO IDEA! I think eating Indian food will make this diet more interesting because of all the spices in the food. So if any of you out there think this diet is unbearably boring despite its effectiveness, then just eat Indian food. Also, the spices in the Indian food kill a lot of parasites and improve digestion. I heard chili peppers aid in weight loss. Anyway, American food is just too boring. Indian food will DEFINITELY bring the change and still be effective…if you cut out the white rice..as Tim said and the noodles, breads(pooris, chapatis, dosa), and some of the fried stuff. But for the most part it’s pretty good.
November 24th, 2008
1:29 pm
hi
why we should not drink milk?
what is the problem with skimmed milk?
tanx
November 24th, 2008
8:55 pm
Thanks for the great read. I also find a lot of health benefits to a glass of wine in the evening. I am a firm believer that worry and stress keeps weight on your abdomen, especially in the evening. Wine in the evening cures this for me ( I think).
November 24th, 2008
10:55 pm
I’ve tried the zone diet and found it to be way too much food.
I also try to eat 5 small meals a day..
each about the size of my fist.
I dont eat red meat because i cant digest it properly.. and it gives me stomach aches (havent eaten it in about 10 years).
I work m – f 9 to 5 so i need to figure out a way to do meals at work.
how big should my meals be?
i am 5’2 and weigh 140 lbs
and i eat like a bird….
November 24th, 2008
11:36 pm
hey i am about to try this diet, i am just wondering if its okay to eat vegetables that arent listed such as peppers, mushrooms, carrots, etc..
November 26th, 2008
5:17 pm
Wow. This sounds way to good to be true, but apparently it is.
I know this is supposed to be without exercise, but what if you do? Does it alter anything?
November 26th, 2008
8:05 pm
I have gone from 278 pounds down to 214 (so far). My keys:
1. Eat more vegetables, even if they have cheese on them.
2. Count calories. I can eat almost anything I want if I stay within my calorie range. This is free and easy and you don’t have to take a magic pill or join a super secret club or follow a special plan.
3. Move. EVen if it’s just a short walk. My first “walk” was out the door, 5 feet down the sidewalk, and back. That was ALL I could do. Now I ride a stationary bike 30 minutes a day. This summer I hiked up steep terrain for 1.8 miles, no problem.
4. NEVER GIVE UP. If you mess up, start again RIGHT THEN. Not tomorrow, not on Monday or next month or January first. NOW.
I have blogged my weight loss journey at Escape from Obesity. Link included above :)
November 27th, 2008
5:58 pm
Hey Tim:
Thanks for the diet. I meant to post on your diet some time ago. I have been on it for nearly a year now with great success. I dabble in numerous activities such as body building, power lifting, road races, etc. Now eating foods with low Glycemic index has enabled me to get similar results with a fraction of the effort. I have made a few alterations to add more nutrients into the diet. However, all in all it’s the best diet I’ve found to date.
Also thanks for the book. I have been working on my muse. Muse #1 was selling personal training videos to correct postural issues. Had difficulty getting hits on my website. So I’m onto muse #2 writing mechanic manuals & tweaks for cars w/o mechanical literature. However, having difficulty learning how to effectively automate sales of an e-book. I would be interested in learning how others have marketed their e-books.
Thanks again! Keep up the blog I greatly enjoy your posts.
November 27th, 2008
11:47 pm
I wanna run a marathon… might go running right NOW!
November 28th, 2008
7:59 am
Hi, I’ve been looking at this diet and all the comments for a couple days now and I’m really excited because it seems to be really legitimate. I just have a couple of questions/concerns:
1. I’m in high school so making THREE proper meals could be a stretch some days, so is the fourth crucial? If it is, can someone give me a suggestion of something I can eat discretly?
2. I’m 16 and a girl, will the effects be slower because I’m the “child-bearing gender” or does my age give a little help? Losing 10 pounds every three weeks isn’t a tragedy or anything but obviously 20 bounds a month sounds really good.
Thanks in advanced, I’ve been losing a little weight without dieting so far, just kind of watching what I eat, but I’d really like to lose serious weight and be the right size again!
November 28th, 2008
12:08 pm
I think Tanis’ methods are very good. More smaller meals and avoiding things like red meat. Although, I’ve heard people complain of not being able to eat 5 meals in a day.
Also adding natural supplements to your diet will help.
November 28th, 2008
6:34 pm
This is the way I’ve been eating since early fall. I’ve been using this along with an online weight loss hypnosis program and have easily lost 25 pounds in the past 10 weeks. I didn’t know that I was actually DOING a diet. I just thought I was eating healthy. Exciting!
November 30th, 2008
12:48 am
Does this work well for women too?
December 1st, 2008
8:42 am
The best bit is you keep it concise! thanks for the advice. take care man.
December 1st, 2008
1:16 pm
Thank you so much Tim. I’ve been looking to find a weight loss program that fits my liking and lifestyle, and this is exactly it. Plus it sounds realistic and easy. I’ve always been on the thinner side and I’ve been recently gaining more weight then wanted, why is that? My eating hasn’t changed. And if i start this diet today, when will I start to see results? I’m very self-consious, and hate the way I look now, so I want results as fast as possible, is there anything else i could do to help?
December 2nd, 2008
5:52 am
I stumbled across this post a month ago and was intrigued enough to spend hours reading all the threads. What I noticed is that most of the respondents were men, and there were a number of women wondering how it would work for them. So, here’s my data:
I am a 33-year old woman. I’m not particularly overweight, but have been wanting to get back to my college figure. I have in the past been pretty active, but haven’t been to the gym in a few months because of a stressful work situation ( that’s my excuse and I’m sticking to it). I walk to work about half an hour each way, which isn’t much, but is something. Over the past month I have followed the diet fairly closely except for two cheats: I still take milk in my coffee, and I cannot eat the same meals over and over again. I do take my binge day very seriously, and I love having justification for my nightly glass of wine or two.
The result is that without feeling hungry, I have lost about ten pounds in the past month. This is actually desirable, as most of the research I’ve read indicates that losing weight faster is not healthy and is often counterproductive. For those of you who have been complaining about only losing a few pounds a week, think about the fact that you’d like to keep that weight off.
For me the hardest part has been not eating fruit, which has led to my gorging on fruit on my binge days.. odd. The best part is that I have started cooking on a regular basis, which is a big change.
December 2nd, 2008
7:09 am
Tim,
This is an amazing article and I like the menu choices, especially the pizza because I love pizza – just need to change the toppings :-)
One of the things I noticed was the absence of drugs, which I wholeheartedly agree with.
Thanks for such an informative article.
December 2nd, 2008
11:40 am
Hi All!
I’ve been on this diet for 1 week now, (I made Thanksgiving my free day last week :) now, back to Saturdays being the free day), this diet works, I lost 3 pounds in the first week, and that included the Thanksgiving day pig-out!
I follow it just like Tim laid it out, a portion of lentils or beans, and a portion of protein per meal, nothing more, nothing less. It’s easy.
I’ve noticed one not so fun side effect that no one has mentioned, yes beans make you farty. Will be adding beano to the supplement regeme.
Okay so I am 6’1″, I started this at 230, one week later I am 227, plotted it out on a calendar that I should hit my goal weight of 190 on Feb 24th. I’ll keep ya posted on how it’s going.
:)
December 2nd, 2008
7:46 pm
Hi Tim & everyone.
I have read all the comments about this diet and has been the best one i have sen so far. I am so eager to start this diet, that i am going to start tommorrow once i go and buy the things i need. I dont find this diet hard at all since i love beans so much! I love vegetables too, but i just dont seem to eat them much.
I am 25 and mother of two young boys. I weigh 135lbs and would like to lose between 15-20 pounds if possible. My main concern is my belly. I would like to get a flat stomach. maybe not completely flat, but it seems that my pooch never goes away.
Would this even be possible if i follow this plan?
Thanks so much
Alma
December 2nd, 2008
9:08 pm
Tim,
I am in the Army I excircise regularly, problem is no matter what I do I put on Muscle but at the same time Put on Body Fat. Currently weight 236. I would like to get down to 184 lbs. I hope this helps me.
Danke
December 2nd, 2008
10:10 pm
Sounds great, but eating the same 3-4 meals cycle after cycle is going to get BORing..also what kind of wine can i have..what sauce can i use for the chicken, if any??does it have to be pinto beans??can i use lettuce as my tortilla??
December 3rd, 2008
1:48 pm
This diet works great! I have been on it for 3 weeks now and have lost over 10 lbs.
This diet is simple and straight forward. I see many people’s posts trying to over complicate it. Follow it exactly, don’t alter it, and you will lose lots of weight.
Eat lots of veggies, meat, and beans. Stay away from fruit, bread, grains, etc. Except on the cheat day :D
December 3rd, 2008
3:30 pm
Hey I really wanna try this! Only one thing, lol, I can’t eat beans they really cause my colon um distress If you know what i mean… I was wondering and I know you said no “white” carbs but what if I substitute sweet potatoes (the orange flesh) for the beans, would it really be an issue, they are pretty low on the glycemic index, or is there any other carb at all (starch) I could use to sub for the beans! plus besides lifting I do krav maga, braz. jj and boxing a lot during the week, but I am female and I need to lose 20lbs…I know you get so many questions, but I’d really appreciate any response! Thanks and I continue to love your blog!
December 3rd, 2008
5:00 pm
I’ve been loosely following the guidelines for about 2 weeks and even though I majorly cheated around Thanksgiving, I’m still down 4 lbs!
The only problem is that on my off days I feel really sick, even after eating some bread or rice. I can’t imagine eating ice cream and candy bars. Is the point to make yourself sick enough that your body rejects everything that day, or am I just really sensitive? Instead of looking forward to my off day, I kind of dread it (with eager anticipation). I’m not cheating at all anymore, so I’ll let you all know how it goes.
December 4th, 2008
2:01 pm
These are some good weight loss tips too:
http://www.thinkandshrink.com/30weight.html
December 4th, 2008
2:48 pm
Are hot dogs okay?
December 4th, 2008
10:32 pm
I have been on this diet for 5 solid days, 1 cheat of 2 small cookies. Otherwise basically all I eat is eggs, tomatoes, cucumbers, and stir fry….and some taco salad minus the breaded part.
I am down a few pounds right now…was 252 now at 249…Ironically in the morning when I first get up I am usually 3-5lbs lighter than at night…and my first measurement was in morning….so im doing pretty good. I am 6’3″ and do very physical work, I figure if I could lose 30lbs I would be in prety good shape.
Its hard to eat the same stuff day in and out, but I do actually have constant energy throughout the day and feel overall more healthy. I am gonna do it for a straight month with no cheat day and see the results.
December 9th, 2008
2:08 am
Great post – the white carbos definitely must go. I just started my diet – I am taking your eat the same meals over and over again to the extreme…but I let myself get this far gone. Sometimes you just have to do things that are really hard to get where you want to go.
December 9th, 2008
11:06 am
well, I’ve been on this diet for a couple weeks now. I really messed up on the second week. On the first week I went from 106 to 102. Then on the 2nd week I totally cheated and I went back up to 108. Now I’m on the third week of trying to stick with this diet and I’m going back down again lol Anyway, just an update on my progress.
December 9th, 2008
11:12 am
oh I have a question. Can I eat soy on this diet?
December 9th, 2008
7:01 pm
I’ve dropped fro 128 to 122 in SIX days coupling this regimen with a 30 min simple cardio workout. Im eating as much as I want and creating great meals!!!
This isnt a quick fix, its a whole new life!!
THANKS SO MUCH!!!!
December 10th, 2008
11:08 am
8 month update.
I did roughly the diet for about 5 months and lost approx 32 lbs. After that I got a bit bored with it and did more a body building high protein thing and have gained a stone or so, some of which is muscle, and probably some not. Now cutting back a bit.
Good luck to all.
December 10th, 2008
1:26 pm
Hi my name is Rob, i’m 35 and gonna give this diet a try. I’m about 5’7″ and weight about 280 (yeah i’m a jelley belly lol). Anyway I hope it work. I heard it’s best to do cardio 1st thing in the morning before eating breakfast, can anyone validate this? Oh well, wish me luck!
December 10th, 2008
4:54 pm
Can I have a Corona Lights on this diet?
December 10th, 2008
10:20 pm
I have to agree that a lower carb intake is really effective. Well, last April, I was 300lbs and started to workout (1 hour of cardio and some weight lifting). In the first 2 months, I lost around 30lbs and 7 inches off my waist (59 down to 52). I did that by eating only in daytime and completely removing white rice and bread from my diet (I relied on ‘sweet potato’ as my carb and fiber source). But in August, I injured my left foot (still aching every now and then), while jogging and I was forced to stop everything and now i am around 290lbs again but I am planning to work out again in January. Wish me luck! ^_^
December 10th, 2008
10:55 pm
[...] has an awesome post on the Slow Carb Diet that you all should [...]
December 11th, 2008
4:53 am
Hi I first posted back in May. I have been following this plan since and I can say I lost 40 solid pounds. The inches came off way before the pounds. I only way myself once every 4 or 6 weeks because I don’t want to get crazy about pounds not coming off fast enough. All my clothes are baggy so thats more of a high to me than seeing the scale go down. Don’t give up on this plan because it does work…..
Donna
December 11th, 2008
6:52 am
My first post was back in May. I’m still following the program and have lost a solid 40 lbs. I only weigh myself every 4 to 6 weeks because I don’t want to get crazy over the scale. I have lost inches before pounds my clothes are really baggy and it’s getting time to buy more. My advice is try not to focus on the scale the inches are what will blow you away. The only exercise I get is from working on my horse farm.
Donna
December 12th, 2008
8:37 pm
This looks like a diet I can stick to. On my day off I’ll probably have potatoes, fruit and oatmeal in place of junk food. At least most of the time.
December 15th, 2008
1:44 am
[quote]Sounds great, but eating the same 3-4 meals cycle after cycle is going to get BORing[/quote]
Who cares? It’s not like you’ll have to eat the same stuff for the rest of your life, just for long enough to lose your desired amount of weight. After that, you can change it a bit but still regulate it, and if you see yourself going over your ideal weight, just fall back on the diet.
Update on me: Started this in June 2008, and have lost 20 lbs so far. The funny thing however, is this: I ONLY DID THE DIET STRICTLY FOR 1 WEEK!!! ONE WEEK!!! And I’m down 20 lbs and haven’t gained any back yet.
I stopped it because I’m lazy and like fattening foods, what can I say. But I’ve finally gathered the courage to get back into it starting today. My junk day will be Thursdays. My goal is 155 lbs (I’m 5′ 8″), so I need to lose 25 more pounds. Wish me luck!
December 15th, 2008
11:40 am
It says that you can’t have the list of white carbs unless within 1.5 hours of a resistance training workout. Can you have a white carb within 1.5 hours of at least 20 minutes of an aerobic workout? I do brisk walking for an hour every day. Could you eat a white carb sometime after that?
December 15th, 2008
4:03 pm
ya, well i`ve tried many diets and i even excercise! the pounds just dont come off. our family drinks pop, but i stick with water. were ever obsessed about your weight??
December 18th, 2008
9:48 pm
Hi Tim:
I know you probably don’t have time to answer this, but I was just wondering:
Do you recommend that the “Junk Day” be exactly 24 hours? Is it okay to sleep between junk-eating binges? I work night shifts and chose Thursday (today) as my junk day. I started it today at around 6 AM, and it’s currently 1 AM on Friday… would it be okay to eat junk now, even though I’ve slept already in between? Because sleep usually tells your body “it’s another day”.
Thanks for any help.
Merry Christmas!
December 19th, 2008
6:54 pm
Thank you for putting this diet post Tim. I am on this diet for 6 days so far, it is kid of different feeling, being away from all the food that I ways lived on. But I think it is working
But I have a question for you. I know you said, you would have a glass of Red wine at night before bed. Since I don’t drink wine, can you have a cup of coffee instead with 1ts non dairy normal creamer?
For more info, I do workout everyday (5days a wk), and I burn 700 calories a day being on the treadmill for 60 minutes.
Thank you so much for putting this info. up. It is helping I think.
Happy Holidays!
December 20th, 2008
9:50 pm
cant one lose weight without cutting down on rice???want to lose around 5kgs by the by next month? suggestions please
Current score: 0
December 21st, 2008
3:51 am
I have just completed my 2nd week and have lost 9 1/2 pounds! It is crazy to start a diet between Thanksgiving and Christmas, but this has actually been easier than I anticipated. I just followed the directions – what a concept. Also, I was beginning to have blood sugar issues (headaches, dizziness, etc) before starting the diet. Since I have been following this, I have felt much better and have slept much better. I need to drop 40 lbs. (I was at 214) so I’ll post again in a couple of weeks with my progress. I check this blog often. Hearing from others who are ‘walking the talk’ helps a lot.
December 21st, 2008
6:09 pm
Tim,
This plan sounds great, but I hate beans to the EXTREME! Do you have any suggestions? I really think this plan will work but I am still in school and I have no way to warm up a lunch at school. Any suggestions would help! Thanks!
Ryan M.
December 23rd, 2008
9:20 pm
i just don’t think this is possible w/o exercise. how can fat shrink then?
for someone who has no more than 30 pounds to lose, this i assume would not work, or at least not in a month.
December 23rd, 2008
9:22 pm
also, i think people would lose mostly muscle, no?
December 23rd, 2008
11:42 pm
Alice..
No. All that protein keeps your muscle. And read Tim’s post. He was at 15% body fat (or something… too lazy to scroll up..) and wanted to get to < 5%.
I’d try it if I were you although women do seem to have different results.
All I know, when I do it, for a week or two, I lose 2 lbs day average. The first time, I went from 212 to 195 in 16days. But with kids, I don’t stay on long.
About one week per month, I do it and drop from 198-200 to 190-193.. Then stop when I have to go shopping again.
I expect I could actually get to 180 in 2 months of doing it straight. Maybe I can pre make meals for me, then cook for the rest of the family and actually do this from now till March.
December 24th, 2008
8:52 am
Ummmmm, Steph? Why exactly are you on this diet? You are about 105 lbs, correct? I’m sure you’re fine. Anyway, I would say that soy would be great on this diet; low-fat high-protein etc… And as for the having white carbs after a workout, I think thats more for after a resistance (weight lifting) work out, where the muscles break down more compared to walking, though in your case it could be fine. Just limit yourself and you’ll do great.
December 25th, 2008
4:29 am
Thanks Tim and others!
I’m planning to start tomorrow. The only issue I have with the diet is alcohol: should we stick to the wine? how bad is it if I go for beer or liquor instead? (I’ll be camping with friends for one week, hard not to drink at all…)
December 26th, 2008
10:50 am
Hi Yasmina and Everyone,
It’s been a while since I jumped in here. Congratulation to all for your great successes!
Yasmina, if you have to choose between hard alcohol or beer, the former generally has fewer calories. It can be dangerous if you try and match drink for drink with beer drinkers (don’t do that), but I generally stick with gin or vodka and club soda on the rocks. It’s a matter of learning the caloric content and avoiding sugars like maltose (in beer). I don’t drink beer, but there could be some light beers worth exploring, though I still suspect a small amount of clear harder alcohol will have less of a negative impact on waistline.
All the best and drink responsibly! Happy holidays :)
Tim
December 28th, 2008
1:32 pm
[...] a couple Sundays ago. This week I formally incorporated a “Junk Day” as suggested by Tim Ferriss in his most popular post on weight loss. Wednesday, Christmas Eve, I knew long beforehand that I’d be traveling between at least [...]
December 29th, 2008
10:30 am
Hello All:
I haven’t posted since October (and congrats to you all who are sticking to this, to a “T”!)–but here are my results, losing it healthy at about 1-2 lbs./week (a total of 23 lbs.) week, 5’6″ (goal: 120-125)
Week 1: 165
Week 2: 160
Week 3: 159
Week 4: 155
Week 5: 150 (15 lbs. in 1 month! I didn’t use my cheat day except 2xs; I get sick)
Week 6: 148
Week 7: 148
Week 8: 145
Week 9: 142
Week 10:140 (and hovering; I am writing this Week 11)
Inches (waist): 38″ down to 32″
Cardio: 45 minutes, 3x week (ANYTHING: Walk, swim, run, bike, roller blade)
Weights: 35 minutes 2-3x week (Push-ups, squats, shoulders, biceps, triceps)
So to all who keep asking about fruit, yogurt, milk, rice, red meat, and bread, etc.: You must read the article and the entire thread. Such substitutions are NOT recommended, period. We are mammals who do not need milk past infancy; man-made foods are stuffed with chemicals and syrups; fruit and juice spike your metabolism and drop you, thus creating hunger (and add unwanted calories).
To anyone starting this, THIS WORKS, if you follow what he recommends. My life is for the better: I get up early and well-rested. I walk or bike to work. I clothes shop and feel good about it. I sleep better. I concentrate at work better. I smile way too much ;)
This has been the best change in my life, ever! I can’t wait to drop the other 15-20…
Good luck to all!
December 30th, 2008
5:17 am
[...] How to Lose 20lbs of Fat in 30 Days (Without Any Exercise) – Four-Hour Workweek [...]
December 30th, 2008
12:12 pm
Wow! I took some time to read all of these wonderful posts, including the great article from Tim. Starting Jan 1 2009 I am on a mission to lose 25 lbs, I weigh in at 217 lbs now and I am 30yrs old 6’0″ tall. I figure if I can get to about 190 lbs and then start weight training it would be best.
I am going give this “slow carb” diet a shot. Keep you all posted on the progress.
Cheers!
December 30th, 2008
9:21 pm
Hey all,
I’m planning to lose weight starting from tomorrow, so wish me luck :)
December 30th, 2008
11:08 pm
[...] or less justified and crystalized my life’s meaning. I’m going to use some of his blog “How to lose 20lbs of Fat in 30 days without exercise” and ignore, of course, the fact that I will be exercising through the most part of [...]
December 31st, 2008
9:46 am
Just went to the store and bought a weeks worth of beans, lean meat, and spinach. Tomorrow will be the start of this program.
36-male-6’0″-212 pounds
Plan:
1. This diet
2. “Surge” cardio 3times a week on treadmill/bike
3. After a month–add in high intensity weight training–by Tim Ferriss
Goal:
April 30th–185-190 pounds of twisted steel and sex appeal :)
December 31st, 2008
9:55 pm
IM A MALE 180 LBS 5-9″ TRYING TO BECOME A PRO ATHLETE (SOCCER MLS) I WILL BEGIN THIS DIET TOMORROW JAN 1 2009 TARGET LBS GOAL: 155 -165 LBS, WISH ME LUCK PEOPLE!!!
January 1st, 2009
8:00 pm
I have read all these blogs after my buddy has told me about Tim Ferriss. We were just chatting about working out ( I have just started my work out…going to mexico end of Feb which gives me about 8 weeks) and he told me to check this site out. I was outraged that I have not come across this before. I really thank all the people that have blogged questions and answers. It’s you people that keep others informed. I will keep you all posted on my progress.
Ps. Thank You Tim for sharing your knowledge.
January 3rd, 2009
12:59 am
[...] my surprise, then, to read about Tim Ferriss’ incredible results on the Four Hour Work Week blog. In about six weeks, Tim went from about 180 to 165 pounds, while [...]
January 3rd, 2009
2:49 pm
[...] twice a week following my own version of Tim Ferris’ workout and using an adapted version of his high protein diet. I already feel healthier and like I have more [...]
January 4th, 2009
1:02 pm
Hello Tim,
Im starting this diet today.
My goals is to loose 15kg for the 5th of ferbuary.
My present for my 30th birthday :)
I will update regularly
January 5th, 2009
9:27 am
I am curious, knowing that you had or have your own sports nutrition line, do you also then supplement with anything? Protein shakes, pre-workout anything, or any kind of protein shake for post. Also, what about any kind of pills; vitamins or fat burners. Just curious, I have a good friend who owns a franchise supplement shop and would love to have some answers for him when he goes on his schpeils(sp?) Also, what about gym, do you use a gym membership. I am trying to lose fat and gain quality muscle, but I have some equipment at home as well as a gym membership, trying to decide if I should put away equipment and keep the gym or cancel the gym and keep the equipment.
January 5th, 2009
10:03 am
Hi Tim,,,,,
I did the New Mayo clinic low carb diet for about 3 months and lost a ton of weight….But about 9 months after the weight loss I gained it all back and then some…If I do this diet and then stop will I gain the weight back again…Or should this be a change of life diet like I stick to it from here on out…It is always hard for me to give up carbs the first 2 days but once I am over day 3 I am fine and it actually makes me feel better i.e.. less bloating,,not so ugh feeling after eating a burger with bread and fries and a coke….I still do burgers minus the bread and extra lettuce and veggies no fires and tea no sugar…..So my questions
1. Should this be a diet plan for the rest of my life
2. Will the weight come back twice as fast and twice as much when and if i stop?
3.Low carb I couldnt eat beans but could have as much cheese non fat salad dressing as I wanted can I on this diet???
4.Can I have regular bacon or is it just turkey bacon???
5.Is there an over kill like say I eat 1 cup beans and 3 slices bacon for breakfast ( I dont eat eggs=(yuck) is that to much bacon or can I eat tell I am full???
6.In a nut shell all the meat and veggies you want NO CARBS plan and simple or low carbs ???
Taco salad no shell extra lean ground beef
turkey salad
burgers no buns with cheese extra veggies and I can add beans on the side
I love beans and that was the one thing I really missed with the low carb diet plus you had to wait 2 weeks before you got cheat days…..Thanks Tim for the AWESOME post..
Today I start your diet
I am a female 5’7 27 years old 170.8lbs would like to be 135-140ish
Will log let you now how it goes next Monday….Thanks a ton Joy
January 5th, 2009
10:10 am
On the salad dressing it was regular salad dressin not non-fat…Is regular dressing ok??Thanks so much off to find the book and learn more about Tim!!! =)
January 5th, 2009
10:25 am
Ok so I started really thinking about this diet and all the post I have read on it…..I really like this diet it is a NO BRAINER low-no carbs PERIOD!!!!! Other diets you have to count calories or watch your fat in take but this one dont eat the white…No bread not wheat not wheat or other no tortillas nothing like that so easy..Eat as much as I want but no carbs.. Im only on breakfast and Im lovin it…..Thanks =) chuckles
January 5th, 2009
1:04 pm
I stumbled across your website today and I am very interested. I have lots of weight I am ready to shed. I’m a 31yr old woman at approx. 254lbs. Over the past year I’ve lost a total of 18lbs; I’m looking to shed at least 4 times that amount this year. Between this diet and “fullbar” I think I will accomplish my goals.
January 5th, 2009
2:29 pm
Sound advice in that article.
Personally, I do intermitent fasting and eat only 3 meals a day. It works very well for fat loss and low body fat maintenance.
January 5th, 2009
5:49 pm
Baby Phat:
The reason you gained all of your weight back before was probably due to you going back to your old eating habits.
…Don’t!
Remember, though, eat anything you want on Saturday. The sudden change in calories//sodium will confuse your metabolism, resulting in you losing weight!
Hope I helped :)
January 6th, 2009
4:47 am
Hi Tim & all!
OK – I’m testing this starting today.
BUT
I’ve got a couple of queries – and I’d love to get your thoughts if you have any…
…number1: I’m vegetarian.
number 2: I’m insulin dependent diabetic.
Questions – presumably the low calorie “Quorn” meat equivalents (mushroom based) are ok as a substitute here?
I’m not gonna freak out on Saturday – that’d send my blood sugar into overdrive and I’d be jacking up on larger quanities of insulin to counter this (and insulin pretty much triggers your body to start storing fat – to my understanding…so that’d be retroactive)
So basically anything anyone can ADD with food choices, ideas that are high-protein, low GI would be gratefully received.
Thanks
J.
January 6th, 2009
8:36 am
Thanks Sarah,, yeah I went back to my old habbits and then some..Our kitchen was getting remodeled so no stove or anything so eating for 2 months (which I dont usually do) Caught up to me and fast…I have always been skinny 125 but after begin pregnant 3 years in a row and having one of my children pass away I was HUGE 211 after my last child will the new mayo clinic diet I got down to 151…AWESOME But gained to back so I know this time what I can and cant do and 1 day a week for me to go crazy (laughing) will do me just fine…Thanks again Sarah
January 6th, 2009
4:27 pm
Hey um im aya from lebanon and i wanted to tell u that in my school we have to breaks and usually in arab countries we have the lunch important not the dinner like in other countries. I went to a dietition and she gave me almost the same diet my problem is that i put TOO MUCH salt on my food thats prb. number 1 and um i really do ger hungry in the breaks and i dont know what to eat i also would like u to give me some simple ideas about meals i can cook at home easy ones
Thank you very much
Aya
January 6th, 2009
4:34 pm
Hey my name is aya . Okay heres my problems first of all I PUT TOOOOOOOO MUCH salt on my food and 2nd prb. i live in an arab country and u knw in arab countries its opposite than americans americans usually ahave there lunch as small snacks or sandwiches and salad and dinner is a meal like steak or so in arab countries its different plus in my school we have two breaks so i dont know wut to eat in the breaks :S
please give me some examples of what to eat in my breaks and please do give me some easy diet healthy meals to cook
Thank you
Aya
January 7th, 2009
12:48 am
I have a question, for turkey on a salad, which kind should i buy? thanks. (tired of chicken) lol
January 7th, 2009
1:29 am
oh and green beans in cans and peas canned okay too??
January 7th, 2009
7:53 am
Will start today. This is a great diet for me because I am on the road constantly and need motivation to not eat the fries, bread, potatoes and other stuff. I have already increased my water intake. It is helping and I hope to lose over 20 pounds in a month. Wish me luck!
January 7th, 2009
3:31 pm
me and my friend wont to loose weight as soon as possible because we are going on holiday soon and we wont to get a good tan intead of showing our fat …we our going to loose weight by eating healthy and no chocolate sweets and just exersise everyday..
so far we have lost 10 lbs in a couple of days cant wait til i loose a 2 stone .. right now im 7 1/2 stone and i wont to get to 6 stone cant wait ! :)
January 7th, 2009
5:01 pm
i am 13 years old . i wieghed myself yesterday … it said 121 i was so upset because the last time i wieghedyself i was 106 ! i gained too much . my stomach isnt flat .. my legs arent skinny anymore && i hateee my love handles ughhh… i am very pretty dont get me wrong but i want to look the way i was before ! so i decided to eat a nice big breakfast before school . & not eat lunchh . then when i get home i have a little snack to hold me up until dinner . and i try to excercise by dong yoga and bike riding . i just dont seem to be loosing any wieght …. but i am just very uncomfortable about my love handles …. how do i get them to go away ? please e-mail me back at kool2btiff@yahoo.com ! anyonee !!
January 7th, 2009
6:56 pm
To the point:
1. Are canned pinto or black beans ok?
2. IF not using canned beans then how do you cook the beans quickly? I have searched online but the fastest seems to be an hour. As a major theme is eliminating time wastage I’m not into cooking beans for an hour a day.
3. IF the cooking is unavoidable then how can you reduce time wastage? Do you batch it so that you cook the beans, refrigerate them and then reheat them?
4. IF you do batch the cooking and refrigerate them then how does this effect their nutritional value?
Thanks,
Christian T
January 8th, 2009
1:43 am
@Christian,
Canned beans and vegetables are absolutely fine. Just look at the ingredients and try to avoid added sweeteners like sugar, cane juice, maltodextrin, fructose (especially high-fructose corn syrup), etc.
Good luck to you and all!
Tim
January 8th, 2009
2:15 pm
[...] So I’m on to my next challenge: physical well being. I’m trying a low GI diet for 28 days. I’ve tried diets before and generally believe the answer lies in lifestyle changes, not temporary dietary changes. I’m fairly fit and work out 3 times a week so for me, its more about feeling good about what I put into my body. My biggest challenges are to eat breakfast, and eat more vegetables. The low GI foods are really an experiment to see if diet impacts mood – I’ll let you know. If you are interested in the eating regime visit: http://www.fourhourworkweek.com/blog/2007/04/06/how-to-lose-20-lbs-of-fat-in-30-days-without-doing-a… [...]
January 9th, 2009
5:28 pm
[...] the “slow-carb” diet. i learned this from tim ferris’ blog (author of world renowned “4 hour work week“). this is not a “diet” in the [...]
January 9th, 2009
8:32 pm
Hey Everyone
Just started this diet. day one today. it was a good day. i am blogging my experience so please check out and comment http://www.20in30slowcarb.blogspot.com any adivice from anyone would be welcome.
Stats 6’2″ 255lbs male
I’ll try to post back here to as well
c-ya
January 10th, 2009
3:01 pm
This is an awesome site with great information. Sounds like paleolithic lifestyle (which I did this summer and felt awesome but didn’t see the numbers on the scale drop, just the number in my pants size went down 2 numbers) This plan is a little more strict which I think is GREAT! Like posted previously people that have to many options in the end ultimately fall off course. With restriction and convenience 6 days out of the week it helps people to loose the weight or maintain the weight they want to be at. I plan on starting up my food log again, it is a VERY GOOD IDEA! That way you can review what you ate that week, how it made you feel after you consumed the food you cooked, then you can critque whatever you need to for the following week! Good job on all who have stuck with it and good luck to all who are starting out this new lifestyle! It’s gonna be an awesome year. Oh and I recommend training crossfit. It’s an awesome way to workout http://www.crossfit.com, or http://www.crossfit-inferno.com, http://www.crossfitendurance.com (if you mix the endurance site with the main crossfit page it is only recommended to do the endurance 2-3 times a week so you will not overtrain yourself) I started crossfit this summer and absolutely am addicted to it! Give it a try, read up on what crossfit is about, and incorporated with a healthy meal plan the weight will surely vanish! Good luck to all!
Kristina
January 11th, 2009
8:18 am
Ok so I finished my first week cheated alot through it but I made it …..Started at 170.8 and on the 6th day I weighed 167.6 I know I could of done alot better but I am very happy with the weight I lost I am sure alot of it is water weight but the fat loss will come soon…My first short term goal is 160 by Feb 19th I will let you know how it goes…This is a easy diet to follow just have to make it past the first 3 days and it gets easier….Good luck to all who try it
January 12th, 2009
2:04 am
Hey! I liked the routine n im very excited to start. I shall let u know of any progress but im starting right now!
January 13th, 2009
3:05 am
I’m kind of worried by this diet. I started last Tuesday. I got my liquid egg whites and every morning I’m eating scrambled egg whites with spinach and half a can of legumes (I can’t get pinto or black beans so I get whatever isn’t calorically dense – this morning was mung beans). I work in an office so I can’t cook food so I bring in a large chicken salad and a cooked can of adzuki beans, which will cover the two daytime meals. In the evening, I’m eating a beef stirfry with another half a can of beans. My worry is that I’m not consuming enough calories because I’m getting headaches in the evenings. I am kind of restless at night and my usual eight hours of uninterrupted sleep is now punctuated by waking up in the middle of the night and usually waking about an hour before I need to get up. I’m getting aches and weaknesses where I never usually would, including the occasional stitch. I’ve lost three lbs in the last week. This all could be unrelated to the diet but is there something I’m doing wrong if I feel ill?
January 13th, 2009
9:44 am
@ Mike,
If you continue to feel ill, I would return to your other diet. There is a chance that you aren’t consuming enough calories, in which case I would add more lean proteins (meat, fish, etc.) and lentils if you can. Mung beans are too light calorically — go for a legume with more density.
Good luck!
Tim
January 13th, 2009
1:30 pm
Tim, isn’t the empty calories and alcohol in a glass or two of wine counterproductive to weight loss?
Sounds great if I can have a couple glasses of wine every evening and still lose weight.
-Tom
January 13th, 2009
3:51 pm
Why do people fail in this and every weight loss plan? It is lack of desire or lack of motivation or lack of support.
Do we even ask ourselves how long it took us to get into over overweight shape? Some took years to get where they are now, but when it comes to losing it, we want it fast. Ain’t that something?
No matter what the plan we follow, if we don’t give and apply our by being patient and rewarding ourselves for our little success we can do it.
January 13th, 2009
7:08 pm
hey,
why would you want to eat dinner after 9:00 P.M.?
i cant do that!its so bad for you, and i go to bed at about 11:00
and i dont drink.
January 14th, 2009
6:24 am
Hi, like everyone else, i’m curious if this diet of yours will work for me. I was a dancer for 10 years and had to stop when i graduated from college. Work did not permit me to attend my dance trainings. now i gained weight and wanted to lose some since i’ll be a maid of honor this august. Carbs is my #1 problem since rice is a regular thing in asia. Your diet is just perfect and i hope i can discipline myself.
January 14th, 2009
3:05 pm
Tim, just to follow up. I’ve upped my portions of what you’ve suggested and feel much better today. Over the years I have become used to small portion sizes of very dense carbs, like having a small portion of pasta, but I can eat three times that amount on this diet and still have far less calories.
January 15th, 2009
3:14 am
Wow, excellent article. Being a personal trainer I feel I can’t stress enough the importance of the right foods when attempting any weight transformation. This is a perfect diet for weight loss. I have argued for years exercise is not the most important factor when dealing with weight loss and this article demonstrates it brilliantly. Removing white carbs and eating low GI ones is one of the most important factors when it comes to weight management. Well done Tim.
January 15th, 2009
10:02 am
sounds like a great program! Can i replace black beans with kidney beans?Its just easier since they are already a staple in my house.
January 15th, 2009
7:51 pm
@tracy,
Yes, kidney beans or any type of beans will do. Just avoid added fat (frying, etc.) and sugars (fructose corn syrup, maltodextrin, etc.).
Good luck!
Tim
January 15th, 2009
4:38 pm
This is a kick ass dietary regimen. It definitely works if you don’t get bored with it. I guess it’s like anything else in life. Repetition, Repetition, Repetition.
Thanks Tim-
Richard Brian Penn
January 16th, 2009
2:18 pm
That’s great advice! I also have been trying to lose about 30 lbs and I’ve done most of these things. Well, I try anyways! Sometimes I screw up though, and go back to my old ways lol. I tried model herbs and that helped me lose 10 lbs, and I didn’t even really do anything else! I hope to maintain the weight loss by doing some of these tips as well on a more regular basis!
January 17th, 2009
1:07 pm
Tim,
I am trying the diet and workout, and just ordered your book.
2 Quick Questions:
1. Why no milk?
2. How about cottage cheese, which has a ton of protein. (I am not sure since you said cheese was ok, but milk was bad) I don’t really get this part. Isn’t cheese just milk?
January 17th, 2009
8:56 pm
Hi Tim and everone one else….I am excited to start this diet on Monday. I currently weigh 195 pounds and i am looking to lose at least 30 pounds. so if everthing goes well it will take me 55 days…..I am going on a cruise Jan 29th so it will be sooooooooo hard to watch what i eat on the cruise but the day i can eat anything you better believe im up at like 5am to start my binge eating. lol. Now quick question for tim or whoever wants to answer. What can I eat for breakfast? And what do you mean by no xercise? No running but weight lifting? Cuz i weight lift for golf. Thanks Tim and everyone else..I will update again Feb 6th when i return from my cruise.
January 18th, 2009
8:54 am
Wow, well read most of the comments, and Deltrons one telling that he has tried this and it is giving him an effect to his weight. I am actually 15 years old and I have had enough being the weight I am, and I have tried to lose weight before but I usually give up. But now I think I am ready because I have set my mind to it, and want to do it myself. I came across this diet, and I am really going to give it a go.
I know it says you can lose weight without the excercise and stuff, but I just wanted to know that if I did do about an hours worth of excercise a day as well as following this diet will it make me lose a bit more weight rather than 20lbs?
I go to school and stuff and I usually never have time for breakfast either. Will it effect the diet plans if I don’t eat a breakfast? I know that for lunchtime I could make myself a chicken salad and then when I get home I can make one of the meals you have mentioned and then exercise and then eat another small meal and obviously just stick to water.
What would you suggest to eat at break during school? Because if I don’t eat in the morning and just eat at break which is about 10.20, then what would make a good thing to eat then? And then you also suggest that eating fruit is not a good thing either during this diet, because of what it is.
I’m sorry if I have asked a lot of questions, its just that I am really into losing weight and I really want to do it the right way. Especially now that I am really into doing this already. All the help will be much appreciated. I need to lose alot of weight. So, I hope I can do this, and not get bored of it and want to give up. (:
This is the first website I clicked on from google. And it seems like a great way to start!
I am going to start right away! (: Looks like I need to get shopping!
Thank you sooo sooo sooo much Tim Feriss, I hope that this will work for me, if it does I will be so thankful to you!
x
January 18th, 2009
11:19 am
[...] for more frequent, informal updates, you can follow me on Twitter. Thanks for visiting!One of the other posts I read on Tim Ferriss’ blog while waiting on my friend’s flight was about losing some [...]
January 18th, 2009
6:28 pm
Hello all –
i am extremely hypothyroid (hashimoto’s) and am going to start this regime of tim’s tomorrow. my plan is to do what has been recommended on this blog, in terms of the meals, and the supplement cocktail tim mentions in the beginning, waaaay up there…… is anyone else just starting?
i must add a huge thank you to you, tim – i have also ordered your book. i really hope this works for me – looking forward to finding out…..
January 18th, 2009
7:02 pm
Hi, i started this diet a month and about 2 weeks ago and i have lost 25 pounds. It’s amazing. I feel better that i eat healthier and i have eaten more legumes in the past month that i have eaten in a lifetime. It took a lot of will power to stay on this diet at first but now it’s a habit. The cheat day is amazing and i love being able to eat whatever i want for a day even though i really dont have 2 many cravings anymore. I have tried to get other people i know to follow it, but they can’t. I’m the only survivor. lol. but im extremely happy to actually be losing weight and doing it healthy. Now i need to step up on my exercise to tone up a little and thats about it. I wish anyone luck who is just starting:).
January 19th, 2009
9:13 am
Ok i am halfway through day one, and what has been so extremely helpful is the very succinct plan as laid out by tim f. in the beginning, taking the time to read the ENTIRE blog, making notes as i went along, and then making a cheat sheet on an over-sized index card to carry around with me.
a big thank you to FunChick37, especially. your posts are easy to follow, inspiring and i found them to be very helpful indeed, particularly because of your great attitude and recipes. i hope you reach your goal soon, but i also hope you post more often!
cheers!
January 19th, 2009
12:04 pm
Hahahaha! , “Damn You Scandinavian Genetics” Thanks for the laugh.. Im Finnish;) I def knowz what you talkin ’bout;)
January 19th, 2009
6:15 pm
I really like this idea. My only question is, why no milk? Can I drink skim milk instead of no milk? I only have 2 small glasses a day! Oh… and how long should I stay on it? Until I reach my goal weight or do I go on it for a month and off for a while, back and forth?
January 19th, 2009
9:16 pm
I am trying to lose some weight but I have a slow metabolism..what can I do to speed that up without any dangerous diet pills?
Also I can’t have a meal without heinz ketchup..its near impossible for me. How bad is that stuff for me?
January 19th, 2009
11:27 pm
@Kayla,
Heinz isn’t good for you. Try plain tomato sauces, salsas, or mustards with no sweeteners added. If you can’t have a meal without Heinz, you are no doubt consuming a lot of essentially empty calories that do nothing but add inches to your waistline. Test out some alternatives and you’ll be surprised how tasty they are and how quickly you lose weight.
Corollary to the “don’t drink calories” rule: don’t consume a lot of condiments with added sweeteners.
Good luck!
Tim
January 20th, 2009
7:37 am
i forgot to ask last time. i love sardines.. some in tomato sauce and some in olive oil. is it ok to include it in my diet?
January 20th, 2009
2:14 pm
@Lui,
Sardines are fine, both in tomato sauce (no added sugar/sweeteners) or olive oil. Just realize that olive oil is about 120 calories per tablespoon, so tomato sauce might be better for pure fat-loss.
Tim
January 20th, 2009
12:18 pm
Is there a current blog for this? I noticed some post are a couple years old now, just started this today – thought others may have also started recently and would be willing to add some hints, etc.
I am following most of this diet, no white stuff at all! I am adding 2 things that are not on this diet – dairy ( LF yogurt, LF milk ) and fresh fruit!
Thanks Much!
leona
January 20th, 2009
2:24 pm
arrrgghhhh – i was doing so well until i went to watch the inauguration at a friend’s house and had champagne and chocolate in the middle of what would have been a perfect food day….. it seemed the thing to do at the time. drat.
anyway, leona, you cannot have fruit because it basically is the same thing (to your body) as sugar, so you are defeating yourself right out of the gate. same with the lactose in the milk. read through all the posts, take notes, and then you will have a much clearer understanding of the reasons behind the palate of choices as laid out by tim at the top of the blog.
i too am at the beginning of this, and i find that (besides the obama-induced break from my discipline) if i am prepared, it is quite easy to follow. the one thing i have incorporated is the cran water (very very diluted pure organic cranberry concentrate) from the ann louise gettleman programme (annlouise.com) which i find to be very liver-cleansing. this, in concert with tim’s eating and supplement strategy, makes me feel just fabulous. i am loving it.
best of luck
laura
January 20th, 2009
2:53 pm
canned tuna is ok right ?
January 20th, 2009
7:10 pm
Tim-
I had a question regarding working out and your diet. I’m a 19 year old college student, and I started on this over the summer (June, to be exact), where I weighed in at a rather plump 225 lbs. Now, I weigh 170 lbs, but I most definitely lost a lot of my muscle (but also most of my fat!). However, I just look skinny now, not toned up.
Ideally, I would like to have a ‘cut’ physique, but I can’t manage to lose those extra few pounds that would make my abs well defined and what not. Do you have any ideas for things I could alter to result in greater fat loss? Or should I simply just work out more?
Thanks!
Rob
January 20th, 2009
8:07 pm
Diet sodas and drinks with artificial sweetenersd are NOT ideal for hydration or as a “treat” because the body does not register the sweeteners as calories therefore it does not burn them. If you need a treat try Jell-O haha.
January 21st, 2009
12:33 am
Tim,
I am looking to start this diet ASAP. I Graduated highschool in June ’08, and gained about 25 pounds since then. I played football all through highschool, so i was all about lifting weights and gaining muscle, but never really focused on losing fat (as dumb as that may sound). being a lineman, my coach encouraged me to “get big”. I have decided to join the miltary, and need to lose that 25 pounds in order to pass the physical. right now im about 275, and need to get down to atleast 250. Now, i LOVE lifting weights, and working out (but havent worked out regimently in about 4 months). with this diet, is it OK to lift weights lightly (with still conditioning at least 20 min. a day 4x a week)? id like to lose the fat, but keep the muscle i have. but i fear that lifting (even lightly) will just make me add on the pounds. anything you can suggest will be greatly appreciated.
-Chuck
January 21st, 2009
11:47 am
[...] follow a new exercise plan that includes eating a high protein, low carb diet. (I started this in December, but I want to give it ample time to become part of my [...]
January 21st, 2009
5:37 pm
Laura!
Thanks much for the input! I have read a lot of the posts here and realize the way I’m doing it is not 100% like it says! I have read a lot but not all 1480 of them!!
I’m female, 5′ 2″, current weight on Tuesday was 127 #, also just turned 65! I want to lose 10 #’s but will be thrilled with 8 #’s!
I will still not have any white four or sugar! But I will have the others I mentioned! I know it is a no, no !
Thanks for wishing me luck, I also wish you the very best too.
Leona
ps – Laura is my given name, but mom called me Leona from day one and so has everyone else!
January 22nd, 2009
12:26 pm
@Chuck: Check out Tim’s blog:
“From Geek to Freak: How I gained 34lbs of muscle in 4 weeks. I think it will help answer your questions about being able to lift weights while yours till on the slow carb diet.
http://www.fourhourworkweek.com/blog/2007/04/29/from-geek-to-freak-how-i-gained-34-lbs-of-muscle-in-4-weeks/
Good luck!
January 22nd, 2009
12:44 pm
Many thanks Tim for this great post!
For those of you who look for other food that is low in carbs, here a link
http://www.nutritiondata.com/tools/caloric-ratio-search
Fabio
January 22nd, 2009
3:02 pm
Thanks Val ;) that article did help a lot.
one more question, Tim.
on the beans you use, do you put any kind of seasoning on them fo flavor?
January 23rd, 2009
10:51 am
i have one question. can i have unroasted peanuts (no salt) as they are technically legumes not nuts?? also, tim, what’s your advice re sugar free jello? ok? not ok? i am really trying to be strict here.
and thanks for including the link to dean karnazes – quite a story. my favourite sentence is ‘somewhere along the line, we seem to have confused comfort with happiness.’
hey funchick, how’s it going all these months later?
and how’s it going leona? so far i am down 5 lbs since monday. i cannot believe it.
cheers, all – laura
January 23rd, 2009
8:31 pm
I’m planning on starting this diet ASAP because I need to lose some weight before prom. Starting weight is 148lbs, and I’m 16-years old.. Plus, I’m 5′ 2″, of a small frame, and want to be around 115-120lbs for my prom on May 1. I don’t want to be too skinny because I like to have a little weight on me, but not as much as I do now. So, I won’t start tomorrow because tomorrow is a Saturday, but I’ll go grocery shopping tomorrow and get the needed supplies to stick to this diet.
There’s one thing that concerns me, though. In the past, I had a constant struggle with my blood sugar where it would drop suddenly (down to 50-60 from about 120) if I didn’t eat regular, hearty meals. The good thing about this diet is that I’ll get to eat more often, but I’m worried that it might mess up my blood sugar again because I now have it pretty-much stabilized. I don’t like asking my doctor about these kinds of things because every time I go for weight advice they find some sort of cold or flu in me and stack me up with meds, and I hate taking medications.
Plus, I play tennis, and I tend go heavy on the carbs before a big match to help with energy and the such, and I always eat a banana or two during match time and drink a good 2-3 Gatorades (unless I have water, but I can only drink water if it’s cold or has one of those sucking caps on it. :D) as well. So, what should I do about this?
Thanks for any and all help. I’m supporting everyone’s weight-loss journeys in my heart!
Love,
Sarah.
January 23rd, 2009
10:11 pm
I am in the Air Force and currently in Iraq, there are not a lot of options here as far as beans and such….I was wondering if bakes beans would be a good substitute and also I don’t eat any chicken or most other meats. Are boiled eggs a good substitute for this on a daily basis?
January 26th, 2009
4:50 pm
@Skye,
Baked beans and boiled eggs are perfectly fine substitutes. Good luck!
Tim
January 24th, 2009
12:28 pm
Hello all,
For those who are losing strength, muscle mass, and performance on this diet — don’t blame the diet! It is not “crap”.
You need to do some tweaking.
First of all, if you want to maintain your physical performance and muscle mass on any calorie-restricted diet, you absolutely MUST REDUCE YOUR TRAINING VOLUME!
If you do 5 sets of 5 on deads and you want to do this diet, you need to drop down to 3 x 3 with the same weight, and only one set each of your accessory lifts.
If you run 50 miles a week you need to drastically cut down your mileage for the duration of the diet.
If you’re an athlete training multiple physical qualities for an average of 12-15 hours per work you need to cut down to 8-10 hours per week.
Nobody, not anybody can maintain anywhere near their usual training volume while on a fat-loss diet. It just doesn’t happen.
Second, ensure you are getting proper pre-and-post-workout nutrition. Taking in a whey protein and simple carbohydrate solution (1:1 ratio of protein to carbs) immediately before and after your training session will do wonders for maintaining your performance in the gym. Try to get at least 30g of each protein and carbs.
Third, add supplemental protein and a small amount of healthy fats. Losing muscle mass is a tell-tale sign that your body requires more protein than your diet is currently providing. Your body needs protein in order to burn fat. If it can’t get that protein from your diet, it will strip it from your muscles.
Healthy fats such as olive oil, flaxseed oil, salmon oil, and mixed nuts (not peanuts) provide added calories that you need to perform your training, and help shift your body towards a fats-based metabolism.
Good luck,
Christopher, BPE, PTS
January 24th, 2009
12:55 pm
I also forgot to add:
OBSERVE RULE NUMBER FOUR!
Try to re-carb as much as humanly possible during this “dieters gone wild” 24-hour period with unprocessed, non-white, whole-food sources of carbohydrates such as yams, sweet potatoes, carrots, and other fruits and vegetables, including some amount of “junk” food with every meal to help keep your sanity.
As soon as the “day off” is over, it’s back to strict adherence to the diet, mmm-kay?
Christopher, BPE, PTS, Internet Smartypants
January 25th, 2009
8:53 am
i had my ‘cheat day’ yesterday, and didn’t go totally crazy, though i had a few pieces of sushi, mango in a salad (that had tempura bits in it as well) and some meringue, cream and raspberries at a dinner party last night…. also crackers/artichoke dip for hors’ d’oeuvres…. and the scale this morning says i am up FIVE POUNDS – oh my god how can this be???? i am where i started a week ago – yikes! i am trying to stay calm and think, well, tomorrow is monday i will start all over again. i really stuck to the plan all week, including the supplements.
what’s up with that? anyone have a clue???
January 25th, 2009
9:56 am
Hi Laura,
I’ve been on the diet now since Tues, really fully Weds and I’m down 5lbs, even with, um, my aunt flo :-). I tried a cheat day early early on, like Fri and picked up 2lbs. So I eased up, drank more H2O and did my 30 minute treadmill for Sat & Sun and now I’m back down to a 5 lb loss. I’d suggest until we get this down as a habit, like in a couple of weeks, to avoid a cheat day. We’re just not ready!
January 25th, 2009
10:55 pm
Just a quick note – it’s funny you mention that spiking caloric intake helps. I always noticed that after a night of heavy drinking, drunk food, etc, I seemed to be a little thinner. Weird right? Thought it was just a fluke, but it’s cool to see it here, so maybe I’ll keep doing it! Haha! Thanks for your tips, pretty excited to start.
January 26th, 2009
5:00 am
Seems very healthy Will study more up on it. Exercise is always a part of any diet plan.
January 26th, 2009
5:03 am
Oh the beans are loaded with protein so I see how this can work plus make you feel full
January 26th, 2009
5:05 pm
thank you susan – i think you are quite right – not ready for the cheat day….
i almost just said oh forget it a couple of times today but i did not. i did have ONE piece of tortellini when i was making dinner for the kids… and then i remembered tim’s comment: this diet is not meant to be fun, it’s meant to be effective. this has to be my mantra.
how is it going for you?
tim, how many eggs is too many in a day?
January 27th, 2009
1:48 pm
Hi All!
Stepped on the scale this morning, lost 1 & 1/5 #’s. I was gone from home for 4 days and those 4 days were not on this eating plan at all. I am sort of following this diet but am tweaking it by adding fruit and low-fat dairy. I know those are a big no, no; what I am doing more or less is just giving up the white stuff and for me a “sweet” person, it is not easy! I eat all kinds of “beans” and they do fill me up!
I notice so many of us here are not getting our questions answered! I still am looking for a blog that is more current, anyone find one? I go to Spark on the net and put in all the food I eat in a day and am pleased to say I’m doing exactly like it says I should be with my calories, fiber, protein, fat and carbs! It is just a wonderful site, anyone else use it?
Laura, that is sad about the weight! Maybe no cheat days for a month, think? My fruit and low-fat dairy is the only cheat I have, no “cheat days”.
Leona
January 27th, 2009
7:39 pm
I have a recipe for Red Beans and rice, (which I know no rice, and its easy to forgo since its made seperate), and Kelbassa (sp?) and beans. The red beans and rice I use turkey sausage, and the other, Kabassa, are those meats allowed, or should I pick something leaner like Chicken? It makes a massive amount so its a wonderful recipe for eating every day. Also, Tomatoes, more importantly tomato sauce. . allowed ??(I’m guessing since Salsa is its fine.)
January 27th, 2009
8:12 pm
I am actually starting the diet tomorrow. 5’7 165lbs, female. Let’s see what happens. :)