Diet tips from down-under

Bodytrim - Australia’s top weight loss programme - has recently been launched in the UK. Bodytrim promises to give its users a complete lifestyle change by teaching them about the relationship between food and their bodies.

On the Bodytrim programme, hunger is kept at bay by eating at least 6 times a day.

Bodytrim is derived from basic hunter gatherer eating habits from thousands of years ago and is designed to educate people about the three W’s of weight loss - What to eat, When to eat and Why.

It’s a simple and easy to understand system outlining how to achieve fast and permanent weight loss, while also enjoying normal everyday foods. It is not a fad diet or magic pill, but a tailored solution focused on achieving long-term sustainable weight loss goals.

The programme was designed by Australian Personal Trainer of the Year, Geoff Jowett, who has over fifteen years experience in the health and fitness industry and Dr Vicky Hillier, a GP with over thirteen years experience in the management of obesity and related conditions. They also brought in the expertise of Zoe Bingley-Pullin, a leading nutritionist and chef.

The bodytrim system includes three phases:

Phase 1 – Carb Detox
For the first three days, only protein should be eaten as it opens the door for fat burning, forcing the body to start using the stored body fat for fuel and also brings sugar spikes and blood sugar levels under control, eliminating craving. With no sugar highs, there are no insulin hits setting the stage for the releasing hormone glucagon to play a role, allowing the process of using fat for fuel to begin. Additionally, without the sugar highs and lows people experience elevated and consistent moods and have more energy.

Phase 2 – Weight Loss
The weight loss phase focuses on six meals a day of unlimited salad and vegetables, adequate protein while cutting out high carbohydrate and sugar laden foods. One day a week a protein only day is recommended, as is one free day, allowing people to enjoy whatever they like. 10,000 steps a day of basic exercise is also encouraged.

Phase 2 is goal specific and depends entirely on each individual’s weight loss desires and needs; however for permanent long term weight management people should stay in this phase for at least four weeks to provide them with the knowledge and skill set to be lean for life.

Phase 3 – Weight Maintenance
Once weight loss goals have been achieved, eating to maintain weight is markedly different to eating for weight loss with portion sizes increasing as well as the introduction of some starchy carbohydrates.

Bodytrim users also benefit from access to an online forum. Here they can access more recipes, read regularly updated articles and chat with other users of Bodytrim. What’s more, they also get unlimited access to a nutritionist via email or telephone. The nutritionist has helped many users to overcome hurdles and to become more knowledgeable about the food they are eating.

The Bodytrim package costs £69.95 and is available online by visiting bodytrim.eu.