Best Life Diet

The Best Life Diet is a program created by world-renowned exercise physiologist and physical trainer Bob Greene. The objective is to create gradual lifestyle changes that promote lifelong results while transforming the relationship between food and emotions. This program is designed around Greene’s three-phase approach, intended to instill healthy practices and create balance.

Phase 1, Baby Steps, is designed to prepare the body for weight loss by restructuring eating habits and increasing metabolism. During this period, six problem foods should be eliminated and physical activity should be gradually increased to begin burning calories. This phase should last a minimum of four weeks.

Phase 2, Get Moving, is intended to manage hunger and caloric intake by establishing the link between food and emotions. Physical activity should be increased and special attention should be paid to portion size. This phase should also be continued for a minimum of four weeks.

Lastly, Phase 3, Your Best Life, is the maintenance phase, which should essentially become second nature. During this time, trans fats should be completely eliminated, while sodium, saturated fat, and sugars should be reduced. Physical activity should be increased.

Depending on a person’s age and gender, 1,500-2,500 calories are recommended each day in the form of nutrient-dense foods. Greene has placed his The Best Life Diet seal of approval logo on a variety of food products he recommends.

Foods to include:

  • Fruits

  • Vegetables

  • Whole grains

  • Low-fat dairy

Foods to avoid:

  • Fried foods

  • Refined carbohydrates

  • Soda and other sugary drinks

  • Full-fat dairy

  • Trans fat

Pros:

  • Offers a holistic approach to weight loss and management

  • Encourages a balance between eating healthy and physical activity

  • Promotes bio-individuality

Cons:

  • Does not include specific meal plans, which some dieters might benefit from

  • Book includes frequent name-dropping, compromising its credibility

  • Self-branded foods are promoted, while readers might get the same benefits from generic products

Sources:

Best Life www.thebestlife.com 
The Best Life Diet www.webmd.com 
Bob Greene’s Best Life Diet www.oprah.com
Bob Greene’s Dieting Secrets www.oprah.com
Bob Greene: Eating Habits www.youtube.com