Curves: Permanent Results Without Permanent Dieting by Gary Heavin and Carol Colman (Century, £6.99)

4/10

REVIEW By WLR Dietitian

Juliette Kellow BSc RD

What’s the theory?

The Curves Plan claims that by following a high protein, low-carb diet and doing more exercise, you’ll build muscle, which in turn will boost your metabolism and keep it high. This means you’ll lose weight more easily and then keep it off.

What does the diet involve?

It’s yet another variation on the Atkins diet with a low-fat twist. There are two plans to choose from – a Carbohydrate-Sensitive or Calorie-Sensitive plan. The Carb-Sensitive Plan limits carbs to 20g daily for two weeks, then 40-60g a day after this. The Calorie-Sensitive Plan limits carbs to 60g daily and allows 1,200 calories, increasing to 1,600 calories after two weeks. You complete a quiz to discover the best plan to suit you, then follow phase 1 for two weeks, before switching to phase 2, which you follow until you reach your goal. There’s also an exercise programme to complement the diet, and vitamin and mineral supplements are recommended. Once you’ve reached your goal, you should weigh yourself on a daily basis and as soon as you gain 4-5lb, go back to phase 1 for 48 hours to shift them again.

What can I eat?

For both plans, most carbs are off limits, although they are more restricted on the Carb-Sensitive Plan. In contrast, you can eat low-fat, high-protein foods.

What else does the book include? As well as a two-week plan for phase 1 and a five-week plan for phase 2 (for both), there’s a detailed section on exercise and basic information on nutrition. You’ll also find information on health problems and solutions plus shopping lists and recipes.

How much weight will I lose?

You’ll shift 6-10lb in the first two weeks, followed by 1-2lb a week after this.

Juliette’s verdict on the Curves Diet

Regardless of the plan you follow, this is effectively a low-carb diet and so like most others limits bread, pasta, wholegrains, fruit and some veg, although it does take a sensible approach to fat. Meanwhile, both plans are low in calories, which explains why they result in weight loss. Ultimately, following a calorie-controlled diet using Weight Loss Resources will give the same effect and will be better for you.