The Pros and Cons of The 17 Day Diet
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Created by Dr Mike Moreno the 17 Day Diet made its debut on the Dr Phil and later featured on The Doctors.
The 17 Day Diet is a weight loss program was created to help people avoid putting on weight whilst on holiday.
How the 17 Day Diet Works
Every 17 days you change what you eat in order to put your body's metabolic rate into confusion. This type of eating plan is referred to as 'cycling' or 'rotation'
The diet runs over four cycles.
- Cycle 1: Accelerate. Encourages rapid weight loss, cleansing and fat burning. Discourages fat storage.
- Cycle 2: Activate. Resets the metabolism.
- Cycle 3: Achieve. Develop good eating habits, re-teach yourself how to eat carbs.
- Cycle 4: Arrive. A combination of the first three Cycles. On weekends enjoy your favorite foods.
The 17 Day Diet also encourages exercise and features a 17-minute exercise daily routine.
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The PROs of the 17 Day Diet
- Cycling what you eat, how much you eat and when you eat has been proven to help accelerate weight loss and lose extra pounds in days.
- It is easy to understand and features an organized eating plan
- It teaches the body to crave and nourish itself through healthy eating
- Can be used at any time if you only have a few pounds to lose.
- Promotes eating healthy and clean food choices.
The CONs of the 17 Day Diet
- It ihas been difficult to access or purchase the book.
- It may only be suitable for short-term weight loss.
- It is possible that Cycled eating could result in an irregular eating pattern.
- It doesn't teach adequate mindset changes towards food
- It promotes a weekend break in Cycle 4. This could result in ruining all the hard work you have put into the diet to this point.
- 17 minutes a day exercise is not sufficient to really boost the metabolism.
Conclusion
The 17 Day Diet is a weight loss plan designed to help you take off weight fast and effectively. The plan was created to avoid the holiday weight gain and can be called on at any time throughout the year if you need to lose a few pounds or slim down for a special occasion. The four cycle eating plan is intended to burn fat, reteach you how to eat and the key component is to reset your metabolism so that it works efficiently.
However, the downside of losing weight too quickly is that unless you intend to follow the 17 Day Diet permanently you will probably regain the weight you lost. It really is not a long-lasting weight loss program but if you just want to knock off 5 to 10lbs quickly it's worth giving it a try.
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Thanks Lee. However,many people have been waiting as long as 2 months from purchase to receive their book. So it appears the service is not very good.
Disagree with most of the cons. Ordered the book from the 17 day diet website and had it within 2 days. Lost 5 pounds in a week. Have never ate such healthy food in my life. Eating like this is WAY more regular than the crap I lived on before. If eating fruits, vegetables and protein doesn't teach the body to crave nourishment, nothing will!
Thanks for your comment. You are quite fortunate that you got the book so quickly. They have obviously sorted out delivery problems as some people have complained of waiting up to 2 months to receive the book after purchase.
Congratulations on your weight loss. I am not disputing that eating fruits, vegetables and protein is a good way to retrain your eating habits but as Dr Hartley says "It's important to remember that restricting any one food group is never healthy, as your body needs all of those nutrients, albeit the right kind, in proper moderation and balance." Therefore to restrict or eliminate carbs in the first 2 Cycles does not really teach good eating habits.
Nevertheless I have placed that Con in the Pro section where is it more appropriate. Thanks for highlighting the point.
If we needed carbohydrates, (1)I would be dead since for a year I ate no carbohydrates in an attempt to control severe diabetes, and (2) there would be no Eskimos since they have only had carbohydrates available in recent history.
In addition, what do you think man ate before we became farmers? Not bread or pasta!
Many, many studies have been done that show that carbohydrates are not only not necessary, but that there are health benefits to cutting out all but the carbs available in fruits and vegetables.
Hi Cindy
Thank for your comment.
& Congratulations on getting your diabetes under control without eating carbs. I truly understand where you are coming from because I am also a diabetic. But instead of cutting out carbs to bring my diabetes under control I just stopped eating refined and simple carbs which played havoc with my blood glucose, and replaced them with low GI carbs which do not spike my blood sugar levels.
Any endocrinologist will tell you that carbs are to be eaten to give you fuel and energy, it is just a case of choosing the right type of carbs to consume.
Before bread and pasta became staples, man would eat protein in the form of meat and get their carbs from nuts, berries, seeds and roots vegetables, which is probably the best type of diet to follow!
I ordered the book from the web site during the holidays and still had it in 4 days. Also been on the program for a week and love it. The first couple days the scale showed a weight gain of 2 pounds. I was devistated but stuck to it...now on day 7 I have lost 4 pounds..Works for me....good luck to those who choose to try this.
Hi Pam
I'm glad to hear that you received your book in quick time, and that you didn't let the little weight gain stop you continuing with the plan. Good luck with the rest of your weight loss progress.
Editorsupremo
I ordered the book over the holidays and received it in about a week. My husband and I have been on the diet for 1 week and have lost 5 - 7 lbs. We are happy with the diet and the recipes included in the book.
Hi Linda
Congratulations on the weight loss you and your husband have experienced.
Editorsupremo
Thank you for your input on this book/diet. My daughter and I have been considering doing this so I was doing some research on it. I need to lose about 10-15 lbs, and she needs about 20 lbs. I really appreciate reading your pro's and con's and also the feedback from others who have tried it. I am really interesed in hearing from someone who has been on it longer, since many of the experts are saying it's okay for short term. Has it been out long enough to get any 3-4 month reviews?
I am on day 10 and love it. So far I have lost 6.5 lbs and have been exercising anywhere from 20 to 30 minutes 5 days a week. Off on weekends. Looking forward to cycle 2, 3 and 4. Try it, you'll love it too.
Hi Rebecca
Thanks for your comment.
As you and your daughter only have a few pounds each to lose you could give the diet a try to lose the weight and then maintain the weight loss by following a diet like weight watchers or slimming world.
It is unlikely that someone can give a 3/4 month review, but as the 17 Day Diet is similar to the rotation diets of the past, it can be said that it is not the type of diet that can be maintained long term for most people.
Good luck
DeAnna
Editorsupremo
Hi Bernice
Congratulations on your weight loss so far. I'm glad to read that you are exercising 20 to 30 mins a day. The recommended time for exercise to have any effect on your metabolism is 30 minutes, so keep up the good work.
Well done.
DeAnna
Editorsupremo
Hi, i've been on the diet for two days now. Amazing how much I crave carbs! I can't believe all the fluid that is dumping off of my body. I'm thirsty all the time. If I wasn't on a diet I would swear I have the symptoms of diabeties! Makes me wonder if I have been so over loaded with carbs that maybe I have stored fluid for years now. Since I am a vegetarian I have modified a bit. I eat morningstar garden veggie patties and grillers. I looked for the highest protein and lowest carbs in each product.I did eat a slice of healthnut bread today and some pistachios so I'm hoping I can try and stay on track. This diet reminds me of the South Beach or Atkins diet. The difference I see is the fruit and probiotics. I've been very tired and thirsty but I'm also a flight attendant so that goes with the job! Good luck everyone!
The book came fastm no complaints about that. The cd is boot camp with a grinning inane woman you want to beat up by the end of 3 cycles and the weight loss is fast and encouraging....at first. After 7 days, l could have eaten cardboard and obsessed about french bread dipped in garlic butter. I feel like a herbivore drowing in green tea and water. I think that if you drink 8 glasses of water a day and 3 cups of green tea a day, plus the lovely hot water lemon cocktail at 7.00am ( in my case) you're bound to lose weight without having to swallow steamed veggies by the bucket and drink kamut (blech). Ok, back to weight watchers. Points are my friend. Au revoir chopped hay and dandilion leaves.
Hi Marie
Thank you for your comment.
That's the problem with diets that take away a food group, it makes you cranky and you end up having hallucinations about carbs!!
Good luck with weight watchers.
DeAnna
Editorsupremo
I have less than 10 pounds to lose. I have always eaten nutritious foods, but menopause has me stuck on a plateau. I'm just starting the 17 day diet in a desperate attempt to get the heck off of this plateau. I'm wondering how it's going to work since I had to double up on my calcium supplement and am searching right now for the next bushel of veggies because I'm 9 grams short of the minimum daily requirement of fiber. What the *&%$!
Hi Kelly
Thanks for your comment.
THe 17 Day Diet is good for those who only have a few pounds to lose, so it's worth giving it a try. However, going through the menopause can have drawbacks as hormones are all over the place. I would suggest increasing the exercise to 30 mins a day minimum, and following the eating plan exactly. As carbs are eliminated in the first cycle you may actually lose all the weight you want in that cycle. Let me know how you get on.
DeAnna
Editorsupremo
I am excited to get started on this diet. I ordered this book in December and am still waiting for it to arrive! I am sure it will be great once it gets here, but it is already the end of January. I am glad to see I am not the only one with this problem.
Hi Jen
You are not alone. Many people have said they had to wait a while to receive the book, but there are others that received it within a week. I hope when you do receive it you will be successful and lose weight.
DeAnna
Editorsupremo
I love the 17 day diet. I lost 6 lbs in 5 days. I have personally had people tell me about issues getting the book. One person paid for the book and DVD and didn't get it. Then went and ordered the book, and didn't get that either. $70 and nothing!
I didn't have a problem but a lot of others have.
One thing I did to help people who can't get it is create a contest so you can WIN the book. No need to buy anything.
www.the17daydiet.net/contest
My husband and I have been following the 17-day diet; we're on day 10 and have lost weight. But we're sick to death of chicken, we're craving carbs; and when I'm working out of town it's nearly impossible to follow. We are going back to Weight Watchers -- much more realist and adaptable to any lifestyle.
I have been trying to decide if I need the book or not. I already eat pretty healthy. I've been eating a lot of fruits and vegs lately, and find it is a real chore getting the 7 servings a day I am suppose to get. I want a permanent weight lose of 10 to 15 pounds. Do I really need this book?
Hi Mike
It does seem to be that some people are getting the book when ordered whilst others either have to wait for a long time or not get the book at all.
It's good of you to offer the contest so that people can get the book.
On, congratulations on your weight loss.
Hi Kate
You are not alone when it comes to craving carbs on this diet, it's one of the negatives, and one of the reasons I do not advocate this diet. The lack of carbs is not healthy. You can eat carbs and still lose weight but you must choose the right carbs.
Good luck with weight watchers
DeAnna
Editorsupremo
Hi Rita
as you only have 10 to 15lbs to lose you could follow the 17 day diet as it is suitable if you only have a few pounds to lose and want to lose it quickly.
DeAnna
Editorsupremo
I just ordered my book for myself and my husband I will let you know how we do, we both want to take off 30 lbs. Good luck to all
Hi Cheryl
I wish you and your husband the best in your attempt to lose weight. I hope the 17 Day Diet will work for you.
DeAnna
Editorsupremo
My daughter and I started the 17 day diet 3 days ago. Although it is difficult at first to get used to I have already noticed a change in my energy level and general health. I encourage anyone like myself who works shift work to give it a try as it has a special section dedicated to a menu for shift workers. First diet I've found with that option.
Hi Anne Marie
Congrats to you and your daughter on taking the step to lose weight. It's good to hear that you are persevering with the diet despite it difficulties but I suppose the change in your energy levels will keep you motivated.
It is very unusual for diets to consider shift workers. Therefore this is perfect especially as it accounts for your sector of workers.
Good luck
DeAnna
Editorsupremo
We received our book today will start tomorrow my husband is even excited, will let you know how we do I made our menu and placed it on the fridge that way I will have a list of what we really like,
That's great Cheryl. I look forward to hearing about your progress.
DeAnna
Editorsupremo
I ordered the book and cd a couple of weeks ago and received it within a few days. I am now on day 13 and have lost 12 pounds. I've been on a lot of diets in the past including weight watchers several times and I think this is the most successful diet I've been on with very healthy foods. I never felt better. The second phase of this diet allows some good carbs to be added, so I for one will be staying on this and hopefully continue to lose all the weight I need to.
Hi Barbara
Congratulations on your weight loss, it sound amazing. If the 17 Day Diet is working for you continue on it until you reach your desired weight and then maintain it through healthy eating.
DeAnna
Editorsupremo
I am on day 3 and have taken off 4 lbs my husband backed out on me but that's ok. All of the meals I have tried are wonderful the lettuce wraps and the eggplant parm for cycle 1 are to die for. My morning hot water w/lemon is very good as well as the green tea. Will check back in a few days. Good luck everyone
Hi Cheryl
That's good news. Its a shame your husband backed out as it would have been good support for each other.
Keep up the good work
DeAnna
Editorsupremo
I ordered the book 6 weeks ago and just contacted the company yesterday about when I will receive my book. The company replied saying my payment information was not entered correctly, yet my payment said it was accepted and they gave me a confirmation number for my order. I don't appreciate not bring notified that there was an error. I can't even go to the store and buy the book. Not impressed at all and I didn't even get to try the diet.
Hi Sarah
Sorry to hear about your difficulty in getting the book. Many others have complained of the same issue. Hey just think maybe the diet wasn't for you!
DeAnna
Editorsupremo
I got my book about a week ago now and have started the diet on Wednesday. This morning I could not resist and had to weigh myself and have already lost 7lbs! However, I never want to eat tuna, salmon, chicken or turkey again in my life. And it is only day 4 of the first cycle. I am questioning staying on this diet as the thought of half a piece of bread or even a couple crackers is mouth watering. For now though, I am going to keep trying :).
Hi Jen
Congratulations on your weight loss. But I can understand you not wanting to eat tuna, salmon, chicken or turkey again!! Good luck if you perservere and make to you weight loss goal!
DeAnna
Editorsupremo
Just wondering can we have 3 servings of probiotics. I'm on an antibiotic for illness
Well today is day 9 and down 7 lbs feeling great and sleeping well. Can't wait until this weather warms up so I can walk outside with my dogs. Will post agai. Soon.
Hi Cheryl
I'm sure 3 servings ot probiotics will not affect your diet too much, especially as you are on antibiotic medicine.
Good going with your weight loss. I look forward to your next instalment.
DeAnna
Editorsupremo
can you have diet soda along with your water limit
Hi Carrie
It is not recommended that you drink diet sodas on the 17 day diet. Water, lemon in hot water, green tea and coffee are the accepted beverages.
DeAnna
Editorsupremo
I got my book in 5 days. I lost15 pounds in 3 weeks. I did follow it to the letter for 10 days until my blood pressure dropped to a dangerous level. I have a physical job and work out so felt very week and felt I needed some carbs for energy. I lost the first 10 lbs. in 11 days and then added the carbs from the future cycles and only ate them for breakfast and lunch and am still loosing weight. I continue with lemon and water,greentea, probiotics, mostly chicken and fish,3 fruits per day and I continue to loose the weight. The no carbs for the first cycle made me week and dizzy. I now feel great lighter and more energy. So I will continue, but with my modifications. You have to find that medium that you can continue with in order to keep the weight off. If its too unrealistic you wont stay on it. I reccomend it for anyone jumpstarting weight loss where you need structure to get going. Just stick it out for as close to 17 days as you can. You will loose weight fast but have to work out too. The hardest days are the first 5 and then you just get in a pattern.
Hi Cindy
Thanks for your comment.
Congratulations on your weight loss even though you had to suffer a few dizzy spells to get there! But I think you summed it up perfectly 'you have to find that medium that you can continue with in order to keep the weight off.' It's all about balancing and finding that range that suits your needs.
Kind regards
DeAnna
Editorsupremo
I love the diet and have been successful on cycle 1 and looking forward to the 2nd cycle.
The only problem my friends amd I who are on it is the constipation.
Why with so much fibre??
Any solutions???
Hi Heather
Good to hear that you have got through cycle 1 and the diet is working for you.
However, it's most unusual to suffer from constipation with this plan. Are you drinking enough water? Try an aim for 1.5 to 2L a day, if you can. Also, first thing in the morning have a hot cup of water with the juice of 1/2 a lemon, it might help.
DeAnna
Editorsupremo
Walmart sells the book for 22.50. The diet promotes low ro moderate carbs (not no carbs). The first cycle permits you to eat good carbs (in the form of vegetables). And first cycle specifies only 2 servings of probiotics a day.
Hi Khanfi
Thanks for your comment
DeAnna
My grandma does it and lost 8 pounds in the first week!
I started it this week. ILove it! I can have as much grilled chicken as I like. Its tasty !
I haven't weighed yet but I can see the difference .
Hi Emma
That's great. I have heard many people on the diet say they got sick and tired of chicken, so make sure that you cook your chicken in a variety of way so that it does not become boring!
When you weigh yourself let me know how much weight you've lost.
DeAnna
Editorsupremo
My husband and I are both on the 17 day diet. We love it. We both feel so much better. I lost 6 1/2 pounds but got sick during the first cycle and had to be on Prednisone. I did gain 3 back but have lost it again as I'm dosing down on the Prednisone. I wasn't able to exercise much during the 1st cycle so I'm hoping this cycle since I will be of the medicine and able to exercise that I will lose at least 6 1/2 more pounds. Of course he lost double what I did, but he is a big man. We've never eaten so healthy in our lives. Niether of us craves carbs right now, just more veggies, etc. It's amazing.
We are now on cycle 2 which allows you to eat healthy carbs every other day. I'm looking forward to feeling and looking even better after this cycle.
I love the recipes in the book also, especially the eggplant parm.
Just to clear something up. I got bronchitis, not sick from the diet.
Lee 16 months ago
You can get the book for $21.50 and the DVD for 12.00 or both for $29 plus shipping from the website:
http://www.the17daydiet.com/shop/