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The 5 Factor Diet was first developed as a celebrity diet. They needed a diet plan that was easy to follow with exercise guidelines that could work in a busy schedule. The 5 Factor diet became popular as even regular people could lose weight and stick to the plan no matter how busy they were.

As you have probably guessed, everything revolves around the number five. The 5 Factor Diet is meant to be followed for five weeks at a time. There are five meals each day; five work-out days each week and five essential criteria for each meal that you eat.

What can I eat?

The five criteria for each meal on the 5 Factor Diet is to include:

1. Low glycemic index carbohydrates
2. Low fat protein
3. Healthy fat
4. Fiber
5. No sugar beverage

There are three meals and two snacks per day. For the busy person there are several five ingredient recipes that can be prepared in no time. Overall, this seems like quite a healthy diet and more of a way of life.

How much weight can I lose?
There are no weight loss guidelines. It all depends on how well you follow the plan. But, the assumption is that you lose weight as long as you are satisfied, given a cheat day and you add physical activity.

Does the plan stress exercise of any kind?
The diet plan does stress exercise so it is a pro for this diet. Along the factor of five lines, you are asked to complete 25 minutes of exercise five days a week. The time can be done all at once if you have the time or broken up into smaller increments. There are fitness recommendations for five minute bursts of activity in the book.

The Good

Fits in a busy lifestyle

• Food can be prepared in blenders, toaster ovens an microwaves
• Each meal includes food from each food group
• Stresses easting carbohydrates that promote steady blood sugar
• There’s a cheat day built into the program
• Hundreds of sample meal plans

The Bad

• It can be difficult to exercise five days a week

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What is eDiets Fresh Prepared Meal Delivery?

eDiets® Fresh Prepared Meal Delivery is a chef-prepared fresh food delivery service that provides a large variety of delicious, nutritionally sound menu items to your door. (Delivers to Continental United States only.) Offering a convenient and effective method to eat great food and lose weight.

Formerly called Deliciously Yours the eDiets Fresh Prepared meal delivery plan is the “best bang for your buck” according to Redbook. It was rated #1 by Epicurios.com for taste and nutrition.

According to most people, one of the most difficult barriers to eating healthy and losing weight is the time to cook. eDiets Fresh Prepared is the answer. It’s like having your own personal chef! They do all the cooking and send your healthy, fresh-prepared meals each and every week fresh that tastes just as good as a home-cooked meal.

You can heat your meals for one to two minutes in a microwave and eat the meals directly from the container for easy clean up or if you prefer, you can also transfer the meals to a regular dish and heat in a conventional oven for a more traditional presentation. Specific heating instructions are included with every meal.

eDiets Fresh Prepared (Deliciously Yours) is the only major meal delivery program that lets you customize your own menu! You have your choice from over 100 freshly prepared meals. This is REAL FOOD, not frozen, powdered or canned.
Your meal selections are designed by licensed dietitians and chef- prepared using NO ADDED PRESERVATIVES and only the highest quality ingredients. Meals are cooked-to-order, securely packaged, delivered fresh and are guaranteed to stay delicious for up to 14 days under refrigeration. You have your choice of a 5 or 7 day plan.

What you’ll Get …

• 4 meals per day, breakfast, lunch, dinner and a snack or dessert
• Live support for registered dieticians
• Live personal fitness trainer
• Healthy living tips and health tools and trackers
• Community support via forums

Is it Safe and Effective?

Yes, meals follow the USDA guidelines for variety and nutrition

Is there a Maintenance Plan

Yes You receive advice and support Every Step of the Way!

The Good

• Telephone and email consultations with a Registered dietician
• 24/7 access to a personalized fitness plan
• Menu is 100% customized by you
• No counting calories, carbs or points
• No shopping or cooking or cleaning

• Tailored to your health and weight loss goals

The Bad

• Only available in continental United States
• May be too expensive for some
• No trial offer

History of Deliciously Yours

eDiets.com was one of the first nutritionally based weight loss programs online. They began a meal delivery plan not long after, called eDiets Express. Originally a low fat weight loss plan based on the American dietetic Association recommendations. It has earned several awards over the years including, Boston Globe “Best of the Web.” It has also been featured on The Early Show. Their online advisors are doctors, nutritionists and psychologists to bring you the best possible advice.

eDiets Fresh Prepared Meal Delivery is definitely convenient. It helps with portion size control and saves you time in the kitchen and shopping. With the added benefit of a daily exercise plan, You have all the ingredients of the best possible option.

Last Reviewed

Diet to Go is a meal delivery service that offers freshly prepared delicious meals right to your door.  Yes, it is possible to eat real food and LOSE WEIGHT.

You’ll be eating a variety of foods while on  Diet to Go as they offer four weeks of different menus  - You won’t be forced to eat the same thing day in and day out!  The meals are prepackaged, packed in dry ice and shipped in a Styrofoam cooler.  All you do is heat your Diet-to-go meal up in a microwave and enjoy!

Meals are low in fat, sodium and cholesterol. Your meal plan is personalized taking into consideration any health conditions, allergies or food preferences you have.  All meal plans adhere to dietary guidelines of the American Heart Association, American Cancer Society and the American Diabetes Association.

Get $20 off your first order with Diet to Go! Use coupon code CJ2000 at checkout.

Choose between low fat, low carb or vegetarian meals. Plans are offered in 1200 or 1600 calories.  Additional options are also available.  You may discuss any of your questions and concerns to a registered dietitian through email.

Meals are shipped weekly to any location in the US, including Hawaii and Alaska.  Offers pick up locations in San Francisco, DC Metro, including Virginia and Maryland

Diet to Go is an excellent choice for anyone who desires a meal delivery service. Choose Diet to Go whether you want to lose weight, maintain your weight, get healthier, save money or simply want your own personal chef.

Is Diet to Go Safe and Effective?

YES. The average customer loses 2 to 3 pounds each week while eating this nutritionally balanced diet delivered right to their door.

Is there a Maintenance Plan?

Sort of … You can continue to get your meals delivered right to your door to maintain your weight – and supplement them with additional foods/snacks.  Also, you will know what a serving size looks like after being on their plan, so it should be easier to maintain your weight.

The Good

• Healthy balanced meals delivered right to your door
• Exercise is encouraged
• No portioning or rationing
• No counting calories or carbohydrates
• No shopping, preparing or cooking
• Cost efficient
• Flexible meal plans
• Can order just 1 or 2 meal per day if you wish
• May substitute meals from a list of tasty dishes
• Large variety of meals to suit every ones taste
• You will never pay for a meal you don’t like.
• Excellent support both on the phone and online
• No expensive supplements

The Bad

• The cost may be too high for some, but if you eat out a lot you could actually save money
• They charge a fee for food substitutions

The History of Diet to Go

Diet to Go has been helping customers lose weight since 1991. They claim the secret to successful weight loss is having someone else shop, cook and portion healthy balanced meals for you. They are your very own personal chef.

Diet to go is directed by a team of licensed dietitians It is headquartered in Virginia. It is the only national personal chef plan designed to service health clubs and fitness studios.

Last Reviewed

Bob Greene’s Total Body Makeover is the same diet Oprah followed. You can get fit and healthy with this weight loss plan.

The Total Body Makeover is an excellent program that combines exercise with healthy eating. Learn how to identify your poor habits and discover how to correct them. The focus is on learning how to control emotional eating.You’ll be eating foods that rank low on the glycemic index. Your diet will consist of 50 – 60% carbs, 25 – 30% fats and 15 – 20% protein.

You’ll have a healthy breakfast, moderate lunch, small dinner and two snacks. You’ll be eating fruits, vegetables and high fiber whole grains. You should not eat 2 to 3 hours before bedtime.

While on the Total Body Makeover you will eat only when you are hungry. And the plan helps you to identify your individual emotional eating patterns and behaviors. You will be taught to make healthy food choices.
Alcohol is limited. You’ll be drinking lots of water. There is a strong focus on exercise.

The Good

• Substantial Savings over gym memberships
• Shape up in the privacy of your home
• Learn to gradually increase exercise
• Learn to eat healthy
• No noticeable food restrictions
• It’s simple to follow
• Based on common sense
• Identifies emotional eating
• Family friendly
• Allows for dining out

The Bad

• None

Who is Bob Greene?

Bob Greene is most known for being Oprah’s personal trainer. He is the best selling author of Total Body Makeover which was released in 2005.

Bob Greene states it’s his goal to help people commit to a healthier lifestyle. He is a member of the American College of Sports Medicine and the American Council on Exercise.

Bob has specialized in fitness, metabolism and weight loss for over twenty years. He holds a masters degree in exercise physiology and is a certified personal trainer.

Bob Greene is a frequent guest on The Oprah Winfrey Show. He co-authored Make the Connection: Ten Steps to a Better Body – And a Better Life and A Journal of Daily Renewal: The Companion to Make the Connection with Oprah. He is also the author of several other best-selling books.

You can lose weight just like Oprah by following the Total Body Makeover with her personal trainer Bob Greene. So if you’re ready to delve into the emotional issues that cause you to over-eat and begin an exercise program …

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The Sonoma Diet designed to be a way to eat for life – not just a diet for weight loss.

You’ll be eating low fat protein and dairy products along with whole grains, fruits and vegetables. Process foods are not allowed.

You are encouraged to Fill up on the Ten power foods …
Almonds, Bell Peppers, Blueberries, broccoli, Grapes, Olive Oil, Spinach, Strawberries, Tomatoes, Whole Grains

It’s family friendly …. Your entire family can benefit bey eating the Sonoma way.

You are taught to properly apportion your food on your plate. Use a 7″ plate for breakfast and a 9″ plate for lunch and dinner.

When eating out just remember to eat 25% protein, 25% whole grain and 50% fruits and vegetables.

You are allowed one glass of wine per day

The Sonoma diet is divided into three Waves …

1. Wave One lasts 10 days and is the most restrictive
2. Wave Two is the weight loss phase – expect to lose one to two pounds a week
3. Wave Three is the maintenance plan

What is the history of the Sonoma Diet?

The author of the Sonoma Diet is a registered dietician, Connie Cutterson. She designed this healthy diet because of her memories of her father. He would often drink shakes and forgo normal eating to lose weight.

It was inspired by the Mediterranean diet and named for the Sonoma Valley region in California. Sonoma is well known for its wine industry. The diet is designed to help you learn to enjoy and appreciate food.

Is the Sonoma Diet Safe and Effective?

YES. it is a very balanced and moderate approach to weight loss. It’s Heart Healthy and improves your overall health. Claims to lower risk of heart disease and certain cancers

Is there a Maintenance Plan?

YES. Wave Three is the maintenance phase of the plan. You eat more fruits and vegetables. And are allowed an occasional treat. You still need to follow the basics of the meal plan.

The Good

• No weighing or measuring of foods
• No specialty foods to buy
• Focuses on balance of healthy foods
• Recipes state estimate preparation time as well as number of servings
• Designed by a registered dietician
• Nutritional Advice from a registered dietician
• A large community of online support

The Bad

• If you don’t like to cook, this diet is not for you
• Preparation of meals can be time consuming
• Will need to go grocery shopping two or more times a week
• Some people may find it too rigid
• You are never allowed white potatoes
• Difficult to find foods to substitute with
• Adapting your favorite recipes to this plan may be difficult

Sonoma Diet Summary

The Sonoma Diet is brand new and flavorful weight loss plan that brings together the art and science of flavor and nutrition. It is modeled after the Mediterranean diet. It’s separated into three Waves. With the exception of phase one it is very nutritionally sound. You are encouraged to fill up on Ten power foods. You will need time to shop, prepare and cook fresh foods.

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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.

Last Reviewed

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!

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What is the Jenny Cuisine Program?

Jenny Craig offers a nutritionally balanced meal plan based on the USDA food guide.

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.

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.

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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!

Last Reviewed

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.