Diet two days and eat normally the rest of the week. That idea has been tempting people worldwide for some time – especially since the publication of the book “The 2-Day Diet” (Three Rivers Press, $15), which is now out in paperback for American markets.
The book is written by Dr. Michelle Harvie and Professor Tony Howell, who work at the British Genesis Breast Cancer Prevention Center, part of the University Hospital of South Manchester NHS Foundation Trust. Yes, this eating plan was first developed to see whether it would help prevent breast cancer, but weight loss was one of its “side effects.” And that influence is throughout the book – it explains how intermittent fasting can offer greater health benefits than a traditional diet, not just in cancer prevention but in insulin function.
Which brings us to the brand-new book, “2 Day Diabetes Diet” (Reader’s Digest, $24.99). It won’t be in stores until the end of 2013 but you can preorder it now on Amazon or buy it at Readersdigest.com. Reader's Digest partnered with registered dietitian and diabetes expert Erin Palinski-Wade to create the plan that allows people with diabetes to have their carbs and still keep blood sugar under control. The book breaks down the 5:2 eating plan into a 2-day 600-calorie low-carb Power Burn program, and a 5-day 1,500-calorie Mediterranean-style Nourishment plan. The book also features more than 60 meal options, including restaurant and frozen foods, more than 50 recipes, a walking and strength-training exercise program and stress-reducing exercises.
And if you’re looking for even more recipes, especially ones for those low-calorie days, check out “The FastDiet Cookbook” (Atria Books, $19.99), written by British journalis Mimi Spencer and Dr. Sarah Schenker, a registered dietitian. The book features 150 creative recipes that maximize those minimal calories with a Mediterranean flavor. Even if you’re not following a 2-Day or 5:2 intermittent fasting diet, the book is a great collection of low-calorie, high-satiety recipes. Some of the more interesting-sounding recipes include Red Lentil Tikka Masala With Rye Barley Roti; Spiced Pear Porridge; Mushrooms With Mozzarella, Pecorino and Spinach; and Beet and Apple Soup With Horseradish. There are loads of full-page color photos, calorie counts on each recipe and a brief overview of the eating plan.
