Mike’s Story
October 30, 2007
I met Mike October 1997 on Matchmaker.com.
We were probably one of the first successful internet couples as internet dating was quite new back then.
Anyways, Mike was the first morbidly obese person that I had ever been close to. I was truly amazed at how energetic he was.
He’s an avid fisherman and would literally climb rocks to get to “The best fishing spots”. Mike was in his mid 30s at the time. He rarely got sick and felt really great.
Mike was real proud of this catch! It weighed in at 13.8 pounds! If you like bass fishing check out Mikes blog at BassnMan.com
I’m telling you his story – because even though your weight might not affect your health at this time – chances are it will create health problems for you in the future.
You often hear about obese peple dying of heart attacks – but you rarely hear of some of the other health risks associated with being overweight.
You deserve to live a happy healthy life. Decide to lose weight today.
August 2000
Mike had knee surgery. While recovering from his surgery he developed a blood clot. His leg would swell and became discolored – but the Dr. told us not to worry. For the most part Mike healed and we thought all was fine.
May 10, 2003
Mike and I were married. Though he weighed over 400 pounds at the time, he was fairly healthy. We honeymooned on Catalina Island, and Mike had no problem walking up and down the steep hills.
April 2005
Mikes leg swelled up to double it’s normal size. His leg was discolored and extremely painful. He could barely walk. It took him about half an hour just to get up from the couch. Off to the Doctor he went. We were told he had Cellulitis …
(Cellulitis is a potentially serious bacterial infection of your skin. It appears as a swollen, red area of skin that feels hot and tender, and may spread rapidly. Cellulitis may also affect the tissues underlying your skin and can spread to your lymph nodes and bloodstream. Left untreated the infection may turn into a life threatening condition.)
Mike’s Health Takes One Hit After Another …
August 2005
Mike developed ugly sores on his leg called stasis ulcers. They are extremely painful and take years to heal. There is no cure for them. People have lost limbs due to them – if they get too deep and the infection gets into the bones.
If you dare – do a Google image search on stasis ulcers – they are not a pretty sight! Mike’s ulcers took till December 2007 to heal – and that was only because of a skin graph.
November 2005
Mike began having vision problems. The ophthalmologist stated he had a pseudo tumor. This affects your vision – it is believed that the cause of it is obesity. It can cause blindness.
January 2006
Mike developed 2 more blood clots. He was admitted to Loma Linda University Hospital. The vascular surgeon told Mike that if he didn’t want to lose his leg and if he wanted to live that he needed to lose weight. Weight Loss surgery was strongly advised. The doc also told him to quit smoking and begin an exercise program.
March 2006
Mike had to see a heart specialist. This physician told Mike that he was slowly strangling his heart. The Doctor stated that Mike’s heart was beginning to show caution signs of future problems. If Mike wanted to avoid future heart problems, he must lose weight. This Doctor also recommended surgery.
Note that due to these physical problems Mike was on disability from October 2005 thru April 2006. Mike was in extreme pain. He could not walk at all. Very tough time for an outdoors man.
Weight loss surgery is truly a scary thought. My hats off to all whom have gone through this ordeal. A strict diet needs to be followed after surgery. Often times different foods can make you ill. You may not be able to eat enough to get the daily vitamins and minerals your body needs.
Mike figured that he’d rather lose weight on his own terms, and still be able to enjoy food. I began talking to men and women whom had successfully lost weight. It was at this time I began reviewing weight loss programs to find one that would work for Mike.
April 1, 2006
Mike and I both quit smoking. Mike began following the eDiets Basic Weight Loss Plan. By September 2006 he was down 40 pounds to 390. He felt good and thought he was well on his way …
But the Holidays came. Mike thought he could cheat here and there. He stopped writing in his food journal and stopped measuring his portions.
January 2007
Mike was very disappointed in himself. He now weighed 435 pounds again … He changed his mindset and became determined to lose weight once and for all. He was tired of the health issues he was having. He decided to Choose Life! He began following the eDiets Plan again.
September 2007
I’m happy to report that Mike is down to 350 pounds! This is the least that he’s weighed since I’ve known him.
He’s off his blood pressure medication and is no longer having vision problems …
His doctor says he looks like a “whole new person”.
It’s been a rough couple of years – but Mike is feeling better than he has in a long long time. He’s anxious to get down to 250 and knows that it’s only a matter of time.
Above, Mike at 350 pounds
Right, Mike at 435 pounds
January 2008
Mike weighed in at 332 Pounds for a total weight loss of 102 pounds in 2007!
February 2008 thru August 2008
Mike maintained his weight. with a fluctuation of five to seven pounds. I was/am so VERY PROUD of him – As is his Doctor.
August 2008
Mike tightened up his belt and began focusing on losing nore weight. This year he found out he needs to have a total knee replacement. He wants to weigh 250 before going in for surgery.
October 1, 2008
Mike weighs in at 310 pounds! Will be taking a new picture soon.
We’ll keep you posted
Begin Your Weight Loss Journey Today!
Mens Health Trainer Diet Review
October 30, 2007
Mens Health Trainer is the ultimate weight loss and workout program for men. The experts of the Mens Health Magazine created this program. No one understands the unique needs of men more than Mens Health.
Men when you follow this program you can sculpt your body and manage every aspect of your progress.
When you visit Mens Health Personal Trainer you will take a short test to determine your current fitness level. You are asked questions to determine a meal plan and workout plan designed just for you.
You have your choice of 4 easy to follow food plans:
- The Belly-Off Diet: Focus is on weight loss. You’ll be eating the right nutrients at the right time. Feel full and minimize cravings.
- The Abs Diet: Focus is on burning fat. You’ll eat three meals and three snacks focused on keeping your metabolism revved up and burning fat.
- The Testosterone Advantage Diet: Focus is on muscle building and fat loss. Your diet will consist of the foods you love … high quality protein, fats and carbs.
- The Endurance Athlete’s Diet: Based on the traditional food pyramid. The meals are high car, low fat, with moderate protein.
You simply keep your food and workout logs. The program automatically updates your meals and workout plan based on what you’ve ate and how much you’ve trained.
You’ll also get video tutorial to ensure you have the proper form while working out. You can easily download them on your iPod and take them with you.
Rather you want to build muscle or improve endurance, Mens Health Fitness Trainer is there to help you every step of the way. This is a complete fitness and nutritional program designed to fit your body and your goals.
History of Men’s Health Trainer
Mens Health magazine began in the United States in 1987. It’s published ten times a year. In 1995 the UK edition was launched. It’s distributed to 48 countries.
In their goal to provide health and fitness to all men Mens Health Personal Trainer was built just for you. It was created to meet you right where you’re at now and to guide you to your desired fitness level and goals.
Is it Safe and Effective?
YES.You’ll be eating nutritious meals and snacks.
Is there a Maintenance Plan?
YES. You can continue to follow the program on line. Remember Mens Health Trainer helps you to make a ifestyle change.
The Good
- Customized exercise plan
- Compensates for injuries/illness
- Printable routines to take to the gym
- Video demonstrations of workouts
- Communicate with a trainer
- Communicate with other members via online forums
- Constantly updates goals according to your needs
- Online tools and trackers
- Recipes, shopping lists and printable meal plans
- Personalized nutrition program based on your dietary preferences
- 10 Day Free Trial<
The Bad
- Nothing that we could find
Summary of Mens Health Trainer
Are you ready to shape and sculpt the solid body you’ve always wanted?
If you answered yes the Mens Health Trainer is for you. You’ll get a customized meal plan based on your muscle building and/or weight loss goals. You’ll also get a workout plan tailored just for you. Watch the videos assure proper form; you can even download them on your iPod and take them with you!
The experts at Mens Health knows your not perfect and doesn’t expect you to be. That’s why they the program is designed to automatically adjust when you’ve ate the wrong foods, skipped meals or workouts. It also adjusts to a more advanced workout and meal plan as you get stronger and healthier.
Get Fit with Online Personal Trainer brought to you by Men’s Health. 
Mediterranean Diet Review
October 30, 2007
What is the Mediterranean Diet?
Eat, drink & be thin on the Mediterranean Diet!
Your meal plan will consist of fruits, vegetables, fruits, fish, bread, pasta, potatoes, grains and some eggs. You will be using a lot of olive oil as it is the predominant oil of the Southern Mediterranean.
The diet is a rich source of essential fatty acids and antioxidants.
Drinking a glass of wine a day is the norm.
As the fat content of the Mediterranean can be as much as 40% of your diet, it’s best to utilize eDiets if following this plan for weight loss. Get Your FREE Profile now!
Is it Safe and Effective?
YES. Most dieters lose 1 to 2 pounds per week.
Is there a Maintenance Plan?
YES. As with all the best plans, you are learning a new way to eat for life.
The Good
- Variety of healthy foods
- Helps prevent heart and circulatory diseases
- No special diet foods or supplements
- Physical activity encouraged
- Moderate consumption of wine
- Refines USDAs food pyramid
The Bad
- Red meat is rarely eaten
- Must enjoy cooking
What is the History of Mediterranean Diet?
It is modeled after the diets healthy eating habits found in Mediterranean countries – Spain, Greece and Italy. People of these countries have a lower incidence of heart disease. It could be because of the lower levels of saturated fat in their diet.
You may also be interested in the Sonoma Diet as It’s similar in nature.
Medifast Diet Review
October 30, 2007
Medifast is a Clinically Proven Meal Replacement Diet. Its products are soy-based.
While following this plan you will be replacing 5 meals per day with a meal replacement product. You will also eat 1 “lean and green” meal per day which consists of lean meat and vegetables.
You’ll never get hungry while following this plan as you will be eating every two to three hours.
Medifast meal replacement products consist of shakes, nutrition bars, chili, soups, oatmeal, puddings, and hot cocoa. You’ll enjoy the variety of flavors.
Design-a-Menu – lose weight with Medifast! 
You are advised to drink a minimum of 64 ounces of water per day.
A sample lean and green meal would consist of 5 ounces of lean beef or 7 ounces of chicken and 2 cups of cooked or fresh vegetables.
Products are low calorie, low fat and contain the optimum levels of vitamins for both men and women.
Specialized meal replacement items also are also available for those with diabetes, coronary issues, menopausal issues and arthritis.
The initial four weeks is a low calorie diet consisting of about 1000 calories per day.
This is a great program for those looking to lose 50 or more pounds – and want to lose it as quickly as possible.
Is Medifast Safe and Effective
YES. It is one of the most researched weight loss programs.
Is there a Maintenance Plan
YES. When you reach your desired weight, you are put on a plan to gradually add normal foods back into your diet.
The Good
- There is a nurse on duty 24 hours a day available to take your call
- Preferred weight loss program by thousands of physicians
- Rapid weight loss
- Over 70 prepackaged foods to choose from
- Different formulations are used for men and women
- Exercise is part of the program
- No counting calories or carbs
- No measuring out portions
- Support forums
- Delivered to your door
- Clinically proven
The Bad
- Products contain more than 800 calories, therefore it is technically not a VLCD (Very Low Calorie Diet). Depending on your current weight and size, you may want eat an additional 200 to 400 calories per day.
- Could slow down your metabolism if you’re not consuming enough calories
Be sure to get your doctors approval. It’s important to follow the program all the way through the tranisition phase.
What is the History of Medifast
The Medifast brand has been around for over 20 years. At one time was only available through a physician.
To this day many physicians and weight loss clinics promote it.
In 1976 The Nutrition Institute of Maryland instituted the first protein fasting program. As the formula advanced it soon became known as Medifast. The primary research was done at Case Western Reserve and the Mt. Sinai Medical Center.
It has been clinically proven at Johns Hopkins and is one of the few diets that are medically proven to work.
During the past several years it has became a public company. Forbes placed the company at number 28 in their 200 best small companies list.
Medifast produced a book … “What Physicians Have Always Known About Weight Loss”.
Be sure to utilize the support and tools offered through the website. Medifast is one of the best programs out there today as it has a proven history of success.
Buy 4 weeks of food, get one FREE! Use code PROMO at checkout
Mayo Clinic Diet Review
October 30, 2007
The Mayo Clinic Diet lasts 3 or 7 days. You’ll find several variations of this fad diet out there. Most of them include lots of protein, a few vegetables, lots and lots of grapefruit.
This diet is also known as the grapefruit diet. There is no proof that grapefruit encourages weight loss.
It’s important to note that the Mayo Clinic does not approve of this diet.
A quote the Real Mayo Clinic …
“We can offer you clear and official advice: don’t believe any of these diets. They did not originate at Mayo Clinic and are not approved by Mayo Clinic. These diets may promote temporary quick weight loss. However, they are not nutritionally balanced or a safe method of weight loss for long term.”
If you are really serious about losing weight once and for all …
Lose weight the healthy way with eDiets!!!
Sample Menu
Breakfast: 1/2 grapefruit or 8oz unsweetened juice, 2 Eggs any style, 2 Slices of bacon, black coffee or tea, no sugar
Lunch: 1/2 grapefruit or 8oz unsweetened juice, Salad and or raw veggies (any dressing, that is not low fat or fat free), Meat (Cooked any way)
Dinner: Vegetables (any green or red, may be cooked in butter or Seasoning or a salad as above), black coffee or tea, no sugar
Is it safe and effective?
No. No. No. This is just simply another fad diet. It’s unhealthy, ineffective and a myth.
Is there a Maintenance plan?
Are you kidding????
The Good
- Eat until you feel satisfied
- Allowed to fat and fried foods
The Ugly
- Can cause fatigue and lack of concentration
- Unhealthy and may create health problems
- Low in complex carbohydrates
- Grapefruit does not promote weight loss
- Fatty foods are encouraged
- Promotes overeating
- Does not teach behavior skills
- Does Not Work
- Is not endorsed by the Mayo Clinic
History of the Mayo Clinic Diet
Though it is unknown how or when this diet formulated we do know it’s been around for over 40 years. It’s typical of a fad diet in that it uses the name of a famous place.
It originally was passed through snail mail and word of mouth, next came the fax machine and now with email it’s spreading faster than a wild fire.
This diet preys on the dieters desperation. It doesn’t work and will end up making you feel worse then you already do.
We are begging you – please don’t go on this fad diet …
Jillian Michaels Diet Review
October 30, 2007
According to Jillian Michaels -TV’s toughest fitness guru, losing weight is 33% exercise, 33% diet and 33% behavior.
You’re not offered any gimmicks or tricks. Her approach is by teaching people how to make lifestyle changes to achieve their ideal weight and fitness level.
By answering a few questions Jillian customizes a weight loss and exercise plan based on your body type and eating behaviors. Your plan could be high or low carb depending on your answers. The plan focuses on burning more calories than you take in.
Exercise and Dieting: Get a customized work out based on your body, metabolism and goals!
Is Jillian Michaels Diet Safe and Effective?
YES. You’ll be eating a healthy diet as you shed those unwanted pounds.
Is there a Maintenance Plan?
YES. Jillians approach is a lifestyle change – not a temporary diet. You are taught behavior modification skills that will help you achieve lasting results.
The Good
- 7 day FREE trial
- Focus is on ALL aspects weight management – not just your “diet”
- Customized program based on your unique body and metabolism
- Personalized exercise routine
- Teaches you to identify emotional triggers
- Behavior modification skills
- Inspiration and advice from Jillian
- Weight loss buddies
- 7 Steps to behavior modification
- No restricted foods
The Bad
- None
Who is Jillian Michaels?
Jillian is best known as the strength trainer and life coach on NBCs hit show The Biggest Loser.
Jillian has been recognized by the American College of Sports Medicine. She also holds personal training certificates from two of the leading certification programs (NESTA and AFAA). She has over 17 years of martial arts experience.
Jillian has been helping people successfully lose weight for over 15 years with her tough-love approach. She struggled with her own weight for many years and knows how difficult it can be. She is the author of “Winning by Losing: Drop the Weight, Change Your Life
Visit Jillian Michaels Online Now!
Jenny Craig Diet Review
October 30, 2007
What is the Jenny Cuisine Program?
The meal plan consists of prepackaged meals you can purchase from Jenny Craig centers. You will also be required to purchase fruits, vegetables and dairy products from your local grocery store.
You receive shelf-stable prepackaged meals. Your diet consists of 50 – 60% carbs, 20 – 30% protein and 20% fat.
Before You Spend a Dime … Compare Jenny Craig to other prepackaged plans
Save Money and eat FRESH FOOD on eDiets’ Deliciously Yours
Jenny Craig claims it’s focus is on a healthy body and mind. While on the plan it is reccomended that you visit your local center once a week for a weigh in and a consultation – which is also available per telephone.
You are taught healthy eating behaviors and dining out strategies.
Is Jenny Craig diet Safe and Effective?
YES. The plan was designed by a panel of registered dieticians and medical experts and follows the USDA guidelines.
Is there a Maintenance Plan?
YES. When you are half way to your goal weight you begin incorporating more store bought food into your plan. You are taught long term weight management lifestyle changes.
The Good
- Plan your meals to match your personal taste
- Meals are easy to prepare – no cooking
- Newsletter and tips
- 6 plans to choose from
- One on one consultations
- Fits into the busiest lifestyles
- Teaches behavior skills
- Weekly one on one consultations
- No counting calories
The Bad
- Membership fee based on your choice of plans
- Expensive! – some members have racked up thousands of dollars in expense
- Prepackaged foods may become boring
- Must purchase their food
- Still need to purchase fresh vegetables, fruits and dairy at your local grocery store
- Consultants are sales people – not trained medical professionals
- Consultants are not required to be nutritionists or dieticians
- Eating differently than other household members
The History of Jenny Craig
Jenny and her husband Sid founded the Jenny Craig Weight Loss centers in 1983. The first center was in Australia. Jenny was inspired by her own successful weight loss. Her company offers a prepackaged meal plan with one on one counseling to help people achieve their weight loss goals.
It is one of the largest weight loss companies in the world. It offers a proved program for weight loss and personal well-being. The home office is located in Carlsbad, California. The franchise has outlets in the U.S., Canada, Australia and New Zealand.
Compare Jenny Craig to other prepackaged plans
Glycemic Index GI Diet Review
October 30, 2007
The Glycemic Impact Diet is a healthy nutritionally balanced meal plan that you can follow for life. It’s based on the glycemic index.
The plan balances complex carbs with lean proteins and healthy fats.
Your daily caloric intake will be 40% from complex carbohydrates, 30% from lean protein and 30% from healthy fats.
Foods are categorized as red light, green light and yellow light depending on the glycemic index of the foods.
Red Light Foods have a high glycemic index of 70 or higher.
Yellow Light Foods have a moderate glycemic index of 56-69
Green Light foods have a low glycemic index of 0-55
Glycemic Index is not an indicator of healthy foods
Visually divide your plate into three sections
- 1/2 of it should contain fruits and vegetables
- 1/4 contains lean meat or fish
- 1/4 contains whole grains
Low Glycemic foods are naturally high in fiber, low in calories and filling. Included are fruits, vegetables, whole grains and lean meats.
Stop cravings with GI Diet at eDiets.com
Is the GI Diet Safe & Effective?
YES. The GI diet is very safe, as you will be focusing on eating a variety of fruits vegetables and while grains. It is effective for weight loss. As the diet is self directed we suggest you team up with eDiets where you will receive additional advice, support and motivation.
Is there a maintenance plan
YES. When you have achieved your goal, you can begin to incorporate more yellow and red light foods to your diet. As with any long-term success, you will need to eat this way for the rest of your life.
The Good
- Reduces cravings
- Reduces sugar “highs” and “lows”
- Controls hunger
- Boosts Energy
- No measuring portions
- No counting calories
- Family Friendly
The Bad
- Important to keep a food diary
- Lists of good / bad foods
- GI can be confusing
- Meal planning can be challenging
- Candy is a red light food even if it has a low GI.
- Glycemic Index is not an indicator of healthy foods
History of the Glycemic Index
There have numerous books relating to the GI Diet. It all started when David Jenkins and colleagues at the University of Toronto developed the Glycemic Index in 1981. It has been the subject of scientific research since then. It was originally created to help diabetics gain better control over their blood sugar levels.
The Glycemic Index is a method that determines how carbohydrates impact blood sugar level. Carbohydrates are rated on a scale based on how quickly they break down during digestion. The lower the rating – the lower the glycemic index.
A low GI Diet promotes weight loss and good health.
The glycemic index remains a work in progress. Evidence suggests eating a consistent diet of foods that have a low glycemic index treats obesity, cardiovascular disease and prevents other diseases. More research is needed as scientists debate the effectiveness and benefits the glycemic index.
Stop cravings with GI Diet at eDiets.com Get Your FREE Profile Now!
French Women Dont Get Fat Diet Review
October 30, 2007
French Women Dont Get Fat is a sensible approach to weight loss and maintenance. It embraces the non-diet mindset.
There are no restrictions on this diet.
You are taught to eat quality foods such as fresh fruits, vegetables, lean meats, proteins, breads, and low fat dairy.
You are allowed to drink wine and have treats such as chocolate.
The key is “everything is allowed in moderation”. It’s about eating the correct portion sizes. Not eating until you’re stuffed. Eat slowly. The first and second bites of food taste the best. Enjoy your food one bite at a time.
The plan encourages you to eat three meals a day, drink water and increase your activity level.
Why does this French Women Don’t Get Fat work?
Because there’s no deprivation involved. You never have to feel guilty about eating. It’s a gradual lifestyle change that teaches you to enjoy food – not obsess over it.
Once you learn to slow down and enjoy great food, you will give your stomach the twenty or so minutes it needs to signal the brain “That was delicious, but now I’m full”.
Is it Safe and Effective?
YES. You’re eating real whole foods.
Is there a Maintenance Plan?
YES. French Women Dont Get Fat teaches you LIFESTYLE changes that you can easily stick to in the long run.
The Good
- Teaches gradual lifestyle changes
- Customized to your individual tasts
- You’re never hungry
- Enjoy Bread, Cheese and Wine without guilt
- Food is purchased as at your local grocery store
- Eat real fresh fruit, meats and vegetables
- No restrictions
- No forbidden foods
- No counting carbs, calories etc
- Enjoy every meal and lose weight
The Bad
- Cooking is required (Home cooked is always the best)
- For women only
History of French Women Dont Get Fat
French Women Dont Get Fat is a best-selling book written by Mureille Guilano. Mureille is CEO and president of Veuve Clicquot Champagne Company until she retired on January 1, 2007.
As a teenager Mureille came to America as an exchange student. Due to eating cookies, brownies and large portions of food, she returned to France a year later 20 pounds heavier. She was depressed about her weight and continued to gain for about another year.
Her family physician whom she calls “Dr. Miracle” reintroduced her to the time honored secrets of the French women diet. His advice led her to lose the weight and keep it off for 30 years. It’s interesting to note that Mureille eats out about 300 times a year and drinks champagne and wine daily – as part of her job.
French women have less than 11% obesity rate compared to America’s 30% and growing – which says something about the French Women diet. Mureille states this is because “”French women think about good things to eat; American women typically worry about bad things to eat”
Enjoy every meal and lose weight. Join French Women Don’t Get Fat for a free apron!
Denise Austin Fit Forever Diet Review
October 30, 2007
Denise Austin – Fit Forever is a complete meal and workout plan.
You’ll be eating a low fat diet consisting of lots of fruits and vegetables. Foods with high fat content are discouraged.
Your daily food intake will consists of 50% carbs, 25% fat and 25% protein.
While on the plan you’ll get daily motivational emails.
You’ll receive fast fun workouts, target exercises and a daily 30 minute workout. Denise has a way about her that truly makes exercising fun.
Online Diet Program: Let America’s favorite fitness guru help you with recipes, tips, more.
Is Fit Forever Safe and Effective?
YES. It’s based on a healthy diet and exercise. Continue with this lifestyle to maintain your weight loss and develop a healthy mind-set.
Is there a Maintenance Plan?
YES. In addition to increasing your daily caloric intake you will focus on achieving a healthier state of mind. Your goals will be to conquer cravings and bouts of overeating and to understand the role food plays in your lifestyle.
The Good
- Plan receives a lot of praise
- Exercise is a vital part of the plan
- Realistic goals and advice
- Increases energy
- Promotes a healthy heart
- Promotes strong bones
- Access to a nutritionist
- Inspirational sayings by Denise
- Daily tips
- Real life approach to eating
The Bad
- Lack of variety in meal plans
- Geared towards women
Who is Denise Austin?
Denise Austin has been named America’s favorite fitness expert. Since the early 1980s she has been featured in over 40 exercise videos and DVDs. She currently hosts two fitness shows for Lifetime Television. Denise is a columnist for Prevention magazine and has authored five books. In 2002 President Bush appointed Denise to the President’s Council on Physical Fitness and Sports.
Denise Austin believes in a sensible approach to fitness and eating. She eats 3 meals a day and works out for 30 minutes a day. Denise’s Fit Forever program is based on this approach.
