Weight loss, increased energy and immune function, and relief from the symptoms of debilitating diseases such ulcerative colitis and irritable bowel syndrome, are some of the benefits attributed to following a no-flour, no-sugar diet. All call for a certain amount of discipline, commitment and knowledge to adhere to faithfully.
The No Flour, No Sugar Diet
Dr. Gott's No Flour, No Sugar Diet is a weight-loss program and bestselling book written by newspaper columnist and medical practitioner Peter H. Gott. His book outlines the program he has advised his patients to follow to quickly lose weight. Followers of this diet reduce their calories and improve their metabolism by avoiding the empty, low-nutrient calories found in cakes, cookies, breads, muffins and any foods with added sugars. Dr. Gott encourages his readers to replace these foods with natural whole grains, fruits, vegetables, meat and dairy products. His book includes recipes and menu plans.
The Specific Carbohydrate Diet
The Specific Carbohydrate Diet is detailed in Breaking the Vicious Cycle, by Elaine Gottschall. This no-flour, no-sugar diet is for those who suffer from Crohn's disease, ulcerative colitis, celiac disease and other digestive difficulties. This diet requires strict adherence and constant vigilance in order to avoid even tiny amounts of grains and flours and all types of sugar, except those found in honey and fruits. Many followers have experienced relief of their symptoms through following the Specific Carbohydrate Diet.
Low Carbohydrate Diets
Low-carbohydrate diets have been popular for decades as a way to lose weight and control blood sugar by avoiding foods that cause a large insulin release. Most low-carbohydrate diet plans call for followers to avoid grains, flours, and sugars, as these foods are all high in carbohydrates and can cause an insulin rush. Some popular diet plans include Dr. Atkin's, the South Beach Diet and Protein Power.
Paleolithic Diet
Individuals looking for a healthier, more natural diet are sometimes attracted to the Paleolithic Diet, as outlined in Neanderthin, by Roy Audette, and The Paleo Diet, by Loren Cordain. Followers of paleolithic diets eat the way paleolithic hunter/gather cultures supposedly ate, believing that this is the optimal diet to maintain good health. Since grains, flours, and added sugars were virtually unknown to ancient humans, they are forbidden. This diet is naturally low in carbohydrates and some have experienced weight loss and improved their health.
Benefits
Some people have seen an improvement in digestion, energy levels, blood sugar control, autoimmune disease symptoms and mood, as well as weight loss, by avoiding flour and sugar. More nutritious foods, such as fruits and vegetables, can increase the overall quality of the diet. Many people are allergic or intolerant to grains, often without realizing it until they remove these foods from their diets and experience improvements in health.
What to Eat
Baked goods can be replaced with fruit or muffins, bread or biscuits made with ground nut flour or coconut flour. Most meals can consist of a salad, meat and cooked vegetables. Choose nuts, fruit, or cheese for a snack. The most difficult part will be eating while away from home. Try to keep acceptable foods on hand in your car, purse or backpack. If you go out to a restaurant, order plain meat without breading, and vegetables on the side.
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