Here’s our 17 Day Diet FAQ, please contact us if you think we’ve missed anything.
Q: How do I know what to eat?
A: Buy the 17 day diet book which contains meal plans and all recipes. The meal plan is divided into the cycles making it easy to follow.
Q: Should I also exercise?
A: Yes. The plan recommends 17 minutes of cardio exercise every day and there is also a 17 day diet DVD available.
Q: Will it be easy?
A: Yes, and no. The feedback says that it's easier than other weight loss diets, however there are restrictions (think no pain, no gain [or should that be loss?]). As the diet goes on, additional foods are reintroduced so there are benefits that come with completion of a phase. Phase 1 is the one that most people find the hardest, but it’s also where the most weight is lost and it comes at the beginning when your motivation and determination is very high.
Q: Am I allowed to drink tea and coffee?
A: Green tea has metabolic boosting properties and is recommended as part of the plan and drunk with every meal. Coffee is also permitted at no more than three to four cups per day.
Q: Can I substitute foods?
A: You may substitute foods in the menu plan with others that are permitted within that cycle, but never substitute foods for those that are not on the diet.
Q: Can vegetarians follow the 17 Day Diet?
A: Absolutely. Lacto-vegetarians should limit protein to dairy products, eggs, beans and legumes according to the cycle you are on. Those who don’t eat red meat but eat chicken and/or fish can follow as normal and substitute red meat for chicken or fish. Vegans need to use meat substitutes and take a probiotic supplement instead of yoghurt.
Q: Can diabetics follow the 17 Day Diet?
A: The diet is not recommended for those with type 1 Diabetes or any other serious medical conditions. You should consult your doctor before undertaking any special diet or weight loss program.
Q: Can I follow the diet while pregnant?
A: No. The diet is not for pregnant or lactating mothers.
Q. How much weight can I expect to lose?
A. Some dieters may lose as much as 15 pounds in the first 17 days. Most people claim a loss of at least 10 pounds in cycle 1.
Q. How many calories will I consuming each day?
A. 1,200 calories on average per day during the first phase, 1,500 in the second. The other phases have higher daily calorie inakes.
Q. Do I have to buy the meals from Bistro MD (eg get my meals delivered)?
A. No, having your meals delivered is optional and purely for convenience, the book covers everything you need to know about prepaing the meals yourself.
Q. I enjoy eating out with friends, what do you recommend?
A. If you are on the first three cycles then follow the permitted food list given and stay away from temptations including the dessert trolley or buffet table. Also remember the alcohol restrictions. If you are on cycle four then everything should still be in moderation for example have one slice of pizza instead of two and try and avoid weighty desserts. Remember you can go-ahead and enjoy vegetables but avoid the carbs, proteins are also fine but watch out for sugary sauces.
Q. I am looking forward to the holidays, how can I prepare in advance?
A. Dr. Moreno recommends that you start the plan before the holiday so that you are better prepared. You should remember not to over indulge and always avoid calorie laden festive desserts.
Q. Can I drink alcohol?
A. Alcohol is not allowed during the early stages and only in moderation thereafter.
Q. When should I weigh myself and how often?
A. Once a week is fine and remember to weigh yourself without clothes. On cycle four it’s important to weigh yourself every weekend to ensure you are not overindulging.