SO EASY, SO EFFECTIVE
More than 75% of women over 45 don’t see success on the keto diet because imbalanced hormone levels keep pounds glued to their frame. Fortunately, enjoying “smart” carbs reverses hormone havoc to make weight loss effortless—and, according to diet and nutrition expert Ann Louise Gittleman, Ph.D., it only takes two weeks to see amazing results! “Because the plan is based on a combination of tried-and-true weight-loss principles and new metabolism-boosting strategies, you can experience substantial changes in a short period of time,” she promises. “And you won’t feel deprived or hungry, making it easy to stick to.”
Throughout the plan, which is outlined in detail in QuickStart: Your Guide to a Radical Metabolism (see box at right), each day you’ll enjoy three filling meals and one snack that deliver the metabolism-boosting healthy fats common on a keto diet, along with the revolutionary “smart” carbohydrates that balance hormone levels to make the diet even more effective. “Most of these carbs come from fruit and vegetables, which are a rich source of antioxidants and phytochemicals that neutralize excess hormones,” says Gittleman. “Additionally, they provide a healthy daily dose of fiber that binds to excess hormones and escorts them out of the body.”
It couldn’t be easier: Follow the plan outlined in the sample day at right for 14 days to rebalance hormones and kick-start slimming. For even more impressive results, try incorporating some of these slimming suggestions:
Keep your glass full.
“Drinking plenty of fluids helps the body flush excess hormones,” explains Gittleman, who suggests drinking at least 10 (8 oz.) glasses of water daily. Tired of “plain” water? Gittleman recommends herbal tea or cran-water (1 oz. of unsweetened cranberry juice combined with 7 oz. of water)—they’re both rich in plant compounds that support hormonal balance.
Add chia seeds. These little gems play a starring role in this two-week plan because they help the body flush excess estrogen to promote weight loss. “These neutral-tasting tiny seeds can be incorporated into any meal,” assures Gittleman. “They are also packed with fiber and healthy fats that work synergistically to help you feel full longer.” Tip: If you feel constipated or low energy at any time during the two-week plan, just add 2 Tbs. of chia seeds into a smoothie or sprinkle them over a meal or snack— their rich stores of soluble fiber help get things moving to restore your vitality.
Swap your sweetener. Artificial sweeteners may have zero calories, but research shows that they disrupt hormone balance by killing off good bacteria in the gut. The exception: stevia, which has been shown to help balance hormone levels and dial back hunger. You can add stevia to any of the recipes outlined in the sample day.
Pick healthy indulgences. On days when your sweet tooth is nagging, try Gittleman’s easy pudding in place of a snack or meal. It’s loaded with healthy fats and smart carbs to speed slimming. To make one serving: In a blender, combine 1⁄2 of an avocado, 11⁄2 Tbs. of almond butter, 1 cup of protein powder, 4 Tbs. of cacao powder, 1⁄4 cup of unsweetened coconut milk, 1⁄2 tsp. of vanilla extract, a pinch of cinnamon, a pinch of sea salt and stevia to taste. Chill 30 minutes. Sprinkle with 1 Tbs. of chia seeds before serving. Note: Because this treat is high in calories, Gittleman recommends enjoying it no more than twice a week.
Try a mini fast. “Recent studies are overwhelmingly in favor of eating all of your calories for the day within eight hours. Intermittent fasting has been shown to help train the body to burn fat for fuel, which is what we’re aiming for on a keto diet,” explains Gittleman. “To get the benefit and really challenge yourself, pick two days in a row and restrict your eating window on both days.” For example, you might fast until noon, eat all your meals between noon and 8 pm and then repeat the following day.