The Dukan Diet Plan was created by Dr. Pierre Dukan, and maintained popularity throughout Europe. Recent months have catapulted the concept into the global eye with celebrities and nutritionists alike singing its praises. And unlike most diets, the Dukan Diet allows for normal portions which solves many of the problems that cause other dietary plans to fail. Playing on the psychology of weight control, the French Dr. Dukan took his expertise in nutrition and weight management and creating the incredible new plan which has caught the attention of Hollywood stars and English royalty alike.
The Dukan Diet menu consists of a four-phase design that’s centered on content instead of portions. This process actually re-teaches the body to maintain the ideal weight without starving or shock-diets. By moving through the four phases, one can work toward a sustaining weight that’s natural for their body size. At the end of the process, so long as the dieter maintains certain aspects of the diet, the “ideal weight” will be maintained permanently.
How can such a diet plan exist? The process is simple and the forthcoming outline explains the details:
Stage 1 – Attack Stage
The first phase of the Dukan Diet Plan is meant to shock the body, though not for an extended period of time. The dieter eats a diet consisting of pure protein. Eggs, fish, poultry, and certain meats will make up the consumed foods for a 5-10 day period. In this stage, it’s not uncommon for an individual to lose up to 8 lbs.
Stage 2 – Cruise Stage
This is where the dieter really settles into the dietary plan. By alternating days involving pure protein and introducing days that are protein and vegetables, you can enjoy eating large portions. You will not lose weight as rapidly as the Attack Stage, but you will gradually continue to slim down toward your target “ideal weight”.
Stage 3 – Consolidation Stage
The Consolidation Stage begins when you have reached your ideal weight. This is where the dieter solidifies their weight to ensure that it doesn’t come rushing back (as seen with most other diets). The weight-loss is over but no weight will be regained by following the steps involved. Pastas and cheese are no problem in this phase, and the dieter can enjoy 2 “whatever you want” congratulatory meals per week. This allows you to enjoy anything that you want as a reward. Determining the duration of this stage involves taking each pound lost during the first two phases and multiplying by five. Pounds lost x 5 days = total Stage 3 days.
Stage 4 – Stability Stage
You’ve now reached the goal and you can settle into your new weight. There are a few rules that you must follow, however. One day a week you must eat nothing but protein (like in the Attack Phase) and secondly, you must eat oat bran every day. Finally, drink 1.5 liters of water daily, and you’ll maintain the weight that you worked so hard to lose. Toss in some walking and you’re home free.
