Abs Diet: Another View

 

The Abs Diet was written by David Zinczenko, editor of Men's Health magazine. The basic concept of the Abs Diet is what I call a body builder's mentality of weight loss and fitness: that is one focused primarily on cosmetic appearance of muscles and the physique. Basic principles of this mentality are weight lifting, eating 5-6 small meals spread throughout the day, consumption of lean protein and avoidance of refined carbohydrates like white flour and sugar. These principles are common among athletes, models and especially body builders.

This is a diet plan that focuses on elimination of body fat, especially around the middle. The Abs diet contains a 7 day meal plan, made up of a dozen "power foods" which include:

1. Almonds and other nuts which still have their skin.
2. Beans (legumes)
3. Spinach and other greens
4. Fat-free or low-fat dairy products such as milk, yogurt, cheese, cottage cheese
5. Bacic oatmeal
6. Eggs
7. Lean meats such as turkey, chicken, meats
8. Peanut butter
9. Olive oil
10. Whole grains
11. Whey protein powder shakes
12. Berries
    

The exercise portion of the Abs Diet focuses on strength and interval training. Interval training means alternating your intensity during a workout between hard and easier periods. Zinczenko's philosophy is that you should minimize your exercise time while maximizing your results, so to that end, he recommends strength training.

In a nutshell, focusing on eating his 12 "Power Foods" is an excellent idea, one in which most doctors and nutritionists would agree. Daily exercise is also vital to long term health, weight loss and fitness. The Abs Diet is a winner on these fronts. The only real problem I have is a pretty big one though, weight loss for cosmetic purposes is a very slippery slope, one that most people fall off eventually. Weight training and 5-6 meals a day is dull and impractical for all but the most dedicated fitness nuts. Make your life more interesting. Have fun. Go get a bike, some running shoes, a tennis racket, go for a hike.