Cindia We advise that the information contained in this book does not negate personal responsibility on the part of the reader for their own health and safety. It is recommended that individually tailored advice be sought from your health care or medical professional. The publishers and their respective employees, agents, and authors are not liable for injuries or damages occasioned to any person as a result of reading or following the information contained in this book. TABLE of contents Introduction 7 Chapter: YOU 9 Getting Started 33 Your Training Guide 41 Healthy Eating Essentials 55 Your 28-Day Meal Plan 71 Beyond 28 Days: Your Final Lessons 259 Your Cooking Cheat Sheet 273 7 WHAT’S STANDING IN YOUR WAY? Before you start your 28-day challenge, let’s tap into the main reason why all the previous methods and diets have failed you. That reason is FEAR. The fear of change and restraint, getting out of your comfort zone, and making social interactions awkward. The idea that this new diet will change your lifestyle, ruin date nights, meals with your family, holidays, birthdays, and finally turn you into that annoying person no one wants to sit next to – the one that orders a salad when everyone else is having pizza. There’s only one way to lose weight, and you already know what it is. We won’t sugarcoat it for you. You either workout and eat healthy — or stay where you are. If you’re expecting us to tell you about some “miraculous” new diet that celebrities, influencers, and thousands of regular people are using to lose weight, then you might be disappointed. Our 28-day plan is not suitable for everyone. Why? Because it’s only suitable for YOU. YOU are the only person who can succeed at it (and hopefully share your success story with others). Our dietitians and fitness professionals have tailored the plan to YOUR needs, your body, habits, work schedule, goals, and even the type of salad you like. We’re sure you’ve wasted enough time, money, and energy on diets that are only guidelines for the general public. To eliminate the only excuse you could have, which is “what works for others may not work for me”, we designed a book that is just as unique as you are. It’s what you make of it that truly counts. There’s even a chance that deep down, you’re unable to visualize an enjoyable life that includes working out and following a diet. You’re afraid that life will never be quite as enjoyable as it was. Although it is an illusion, it is a powerful illusion. We’re not saying that if you want to be fit, happy, and healthy, things won’t have to change. However, don’t let those “predictable” fears get in the way of your success. After all, there is nothing to give up, only incredible positive gains to achieve. And, if you need more convincing, ask anyone who’s lost weight if they ever regret doing it. 28 DAYS We believe that it takes only 28 days to change your mindset; 28 days to realize that you’ve never felt better; 28 days to prove to yourself that it’s not “in your genes,” that YOU can achieve something that every person on the planet craves to achieve: to be free. To tell yourself that for 28 days, you did everything to become the absolute best version of YOU. There is absolutely nothing to be fearful of. You are giving yourself the gift of health, energy, peace of mind, confidence, courage, self-respect, happiness, and freedom from the body that isn’t satisfying your needs. THE SIGN YOU’VE BEEN WAITING FOR Okay, so you’ve already paid for this book and took the time to answer a ton of personal questions. You’ve decided that you don’t want to stay unhealthy for the rest of your life, so committing to this decision 100% only seems smart. Isn’t it amazing that soon you’ll find out who you can be after 28 days? Think how quickly each week of our life comes and goes. Imagine how nice it will be to read the last page of this book, knowing that you’re free from the trap of procrastination and selfloathing. Introduction arewhothecanonlysucceed person YOU Introduction Visualize yourself, set specific goals, and find the core reason why you bought this book in the first place. Write it down. If you were looking for that final kick, a wake-up call, or a sign – THIS IS IT. The only person who can stand in your way is you. And we bet you don’t need us to tell you that. So trust yourself. Your mental strength will play a big part in you becoming physically strong. All you need to do right now is keep yourself in that positive frame of mind. If you follow our plan, you won’t need to wait too long to find out how it feels to reach your goal. 28days After all, 28 days will pass by – whether you choose to follow this plan or not. Don’t you want to make those days count? ONLY 28 DAYS. NO MORE, NO LESS! 8 HOW WE CREATED YOUR PLAN Don’t worry, you didn’t have to go through all those questions for nothing. All your answers helped our dietitians create a plan that’s safe and tailored to your individual nutrition needs. At every stage of life, we need many different nutrients to maintain good health and avoid diet deficiency diseases. The amount of each nutrient needed by the body is called the nutritional requirement. Nutritional requirements have to be counted according to your anthropometric characteristics. That’s why following a diet you’ve found on the internet will never work. That’s why following a diet your friend told you about will only make you miserable. In European health care, practice is restricted to dietitians who have undergone recognized education and training in dietetics. All the methods and formulas we use are confirmed by the Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics, the World Health Organization, and proved by scientists. 9 Chapter: You Chapter: YOU Our goal is to give you a diet that includes all the food your body needs and to make it as attractive, delicious, and easy as possible. We’re all rooting for you here, so make sure you do your part and stick to it! 10 Before Our Program This chapter is the equivalent of your “before” photo (which we highly recommend you take!). We crunched some numbers to calculate your BMI, body fat percentage, waist-to-hip ratio, and body type. Keep in mind that these numbers can, and will, change. We use them to define your body type, possible weaknesses, and achievable results. YOUR BMI BMI 51.8 Refer back to this page after 28 days and pop the champagne to celebrate the difference! HERE’S HOW BMI RANGES: Your body mass index (BMI) is a value derived from your weight and height in an attempt to quantify the amount of muscle, fat, and bone in your body. If you know your BMI, you’re able to identify yourself as underweight, normal weight, overweight, or obese. < 18.5: Underweight 18.5–24.9: Normal Weight 25.0-29.9: Overweight 30.0–34.9: Class I Obesity Before Our Program Identifying your BMI and taking the right steps to change it will greatly decrease your chances of developing serious health issues, such as diabetes, stroke, bone and joint problems, sleep apnea, liver problems, and even some types of cancer. 35.0–39.9: Class II Obesity > 40.0: Class III Obesity BODY FAT % 68.92 BODY PEAR 11 HERE’S THE FORMULA WE USED TO CALCULATE YOUR BODY FAT PERCENTAGE: 1.39 x BMI + 0.16 x age – 10.34 x gender (0 if female and 1 if male) – 9 = body fat percentage. YOUR BODY FAT PERCENTAGE Another important number that helped us evaluate your current health is your body fat percentage. In short, it divides your total weight into two categories: fat mass and everything else. Obviously, you need fat. It protects your organs, joints, and keeps you warm. However, it’s not healthy to have too much of it. BODY FAT PERCENTAGE DESCRIPTION WOMEN MEN Essential fat Athletes Fitness Average Obese 10–13% 14–20% 21–24% 25–31% 32% + 3–5% 6–13% 14–17% 18–24% 25% + 12 YOUR BODY SHAPE – PEAR HOW TO DRESS According to your measurements, you have a pearchaped body. This means that after losing some weight you will have a nicely defined waist, an elegant neck, and proportionately slim arms and shoulders. Garments you wear can impact your emotional behavior. And the way you feel matters a lot, especially while aiming for a better lifestyle. Here are some tips on what clothing will suit your shape the best and make you feel good in your own body. 28 days: perfect body’s DNA Embrace yourbodybeautiful shape Think of celebrities like Beyoncé, Kim Kardashian, or Mariah Carey – they all share this body type with you. Obviously, it’s not easy to imagine what your body could look like when there’s too much unwanted fat on your hips, thighs, and buttocks. However, if you commit to following this plan with patience, your measurements will start to shrink and you will start visualizing yourself differently. As for now, try to be realistic and embrace your beautiful body shape. If you have a wide pelvis, you’ll have wider hips even after slimming down. You can’t change your skeletal structure, but you can make your hips, thighs, and buttocks trim, toned, and healthy. Remember, as you burn calories and fat, you will decrease your total body fat. Don’t get discouraged if that fat starts dropping off your arms, waist, and face before it starts to drop off your hips and thighs. It’s only natural. That fat is your body’s safeguard – it won’t give it up so easily. The good news is that fat deposited on your hips is less likely to travel around the body, which reduces the risk of heart disease, diabetes, and stroke. However, that doesn’t mean you shouldn’t be careful. Embrace Your Beautiful Body Shape A “pear-shaped” body is definitely something to be proud of. Guidelines For someone like you, who has a pear-shaped body, it’s essential to balance the silhouette by drawing the eye to your upper half. That’s why you should choose pieces that add volume to your upper body and garments with eye-catching prints and details on them. To wear: ✓ Tops with boat necklines, round or heart. Don’t hesitate to try tops with patterns, embroidery, lace in light or bold colors. ✓ Plain trousers and shorts without frills, pockets, decorations, or details. ✓ Off-the-shoulder, tied, or cross-front dresses, with bows or decorations on top and a straight cut on the bottom half. ✓ Straight cut skirts. ✓ Swimwear with a hip-enhancing effect, A-line, or high-leg cut. To avoid: × Anything that emphasizes your lower body, like leggings, skinny jeans, tights, or baggy clothes. × Accessories anywhere near the hips like a hip belt. Whatever your body goals are, your success solely depends on you. Besides healthy eating and working out - mindfulness, meditation, and regular sleep are important components in order to achieve the ultimate well-being. This book covers it all. Carrying too much weight on your hips can lead to an increased risk of osteoarthritis, and fat is more likely to appear as cellulite. 213 14 Dealing With Irritable bowel syndrome, otherwise known as IBS, is a condition no one desires; although, with 24–45 million Americans affected by it, you’re certainly not alone. We know the condition is painful, uncomfortable, and sometimes even unspoken about, but we can assure you that with the right knowledge and a set of tips from us, you can kick IBS to the curb. TREATMENT AND PREVENTION It is sometimes quite difficult to pinpoint the exact reason why our bodies have certain reactions to specific foods, environments, or situations, but there are certain triggers common to all suffering from IBS. Usually, with a few minor changes to your diet and activities, IBS can improve over time. Here are some useful tips to help you get better: AVOID CAFFEINE. This doesn’t mean just skipping your afternoon latte. Bear in mind, that most teas and sodas also contain significant amounts of caffeine, so don’t go overboard on those. Skip the soda completely, limit your coffees to one a day, and brew herbal tea instead to calm your nervous system and digestive tract. GET ENOUGH SLEEP. There’s no surprise that we are less productive, slower, and lack energy after a bad night’s sleep, so how can we expect our body to function normally if it lacks energy? Ensure that your body has enough energy by getting a good rest. This will reduce the stress on your bowels and make you feel significantly better. 15 Dealing With Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS) Irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) DON’T TRUST GLUTEN. Many people with IBS are also gluten intolerant, so be careful with any foods that contain rye, wheat, or barley. Try taking gluten out of your diet or limiting it to a minimum by choosing gluten-free alternatives that are now widely available on the market. Monitor the changes in your well-being. If your IBS starts fading, you can kiss gluten goodbye. HYDRATION IS KEY. Water heals, quite literally. Make sure you drink at least 5–8 glasses of water a day as it will soothe stomach distress, keep you hydrated, and help flush out your system. When you drink water is just as important - you shouldn’t just have it with your meals. Instead, make sure to drink a glass of water before and after your meals. AMP UP THE FIBER. But do it slowly. By increasing the amount of fiber you consume (up to half a teaspoon per day), you can help eliminate the abnormal bowel habits and painful symptoms associated with IBS. Choose fiber-rich fruits and vegetables, such as artichokes, broccoli, beets, carrots, bananas, apples, mangos, your favorite berries, and, of course, the ultimate source of fiber, beans and legumes. IBS is not something you can get rid of completely by swallowing a magic pill, but once you know your triggers and learn to avoid them, you may even forget this problem was ever in your life. Keep a food journal, track your progress, take food supplements, and be mindful – it will help both your body and mind. MOVE MORE. Increased physical activity does wonders for your digestive and nervous systems and overall physical and psychological state. Start moving your body, listen to it, tend to its needs and we promise you’ll start feeling better in no time. AVOID STRESS. For some of us, it’s practically impossible to avoid stress. However, how you deal with it can make a huge difference. When faced with a stressful situation, count to ten and focus on your breathing. Ask yourself – is there anything I can do to change this situation? If the answer is “no,” then what’s the point in stressing about it? Stress has a huge impact on your health. 16 Tips on Handling Bloating Bloating can be uncomfortable. Nearly every person will experience it at some point in their lives, and when they do, they will quickly realize just how fragile our digestive system really is. Here’s a brief outline for you, which will hopefully open your eyes to this uncomfortable condition. WHAT IS BLOATING? Put simply, bloating is excess air in your gut, although you may also hear the expression “gas” a lot. Having too much air or gas in your gut is often uncomfortable and can feel quite painful at times. Add excessive flatulence, burping, and stomach grumbling that always seem to occur while standing in line at the bank at just the point where the room noise suddenly drops, and you have yourself quite a situation. Age has no bearing on bloating, which makes the issue one anybody could experience. To those that have suffered through it, it’s generally described as feeling full or tight, with the abdomen feeling uncomfortably swollen. Apart from feeling full, your stomach may also appear swollen, and the skin may be even hard beneath to touch. Yes, bloating leads to some embarrassing issues, but once you understand the mechanics behind it, you’ll find it a lot easier to avoid. Bloating is a byproduct of diet, as well as an imbalance of the bacteria that live inside your gut. Some gastrointestinal (GI) disorders and organic diseases may also lie at the root of the problem, but those need a more professional approach from medical experts. 17 HOW DO I GET BLOATING? Whilst mild forms of bloating are quite common, more severe cases may need medical attention. Always make sure you seek medical advice if your situation is worse than described here or continues for more than a few days. Never take anything you read on the internet as being professional medical advice and always obtain a doctor’s opinion. Tips on Handling Bloating You’re really moving through this book and making amazing progress. Give yourself a pat on the back and understand that all this hard work is because of the very first step you took. As many people will tell you, the first step is often the hardest to take. Now that you are well on your way, let’s look at another topic that you may have already had experience with. There are two primary causes of bloating. The first one you kind of bring on yourself by doing some of the most natural things. Common ways are eating and drinking too fast, chewing gum, or even smoking. Some people have also reported that wearing loose dentures also has a way of bringing in more unwanted air. The easiest way to get rid of the excess air is to belch or burp it out. This isn’t always the case, so be prepared for some of it to travel through your intestinal tract and make its way out of your body via the back door. But the reasons above may not be the only way bloating is brought on. Many medical conditions exist that leave their sufferers in pain. Everything from Irritable Bowel Syndrome to stress can bring on bloating. Heartburn, weight gain, intestinal infections, and eating disorders all lead to this condition. The best advice is to always seek medical advice for yourself. Once bloating is present, it can further complicate things by developing into further issues that you don’t really want to deal with. These further issues include an imbalance of gut bacteria, an impaired gas transit, abnormal abdominal reflexes, and constipation. Furthermore, they can also lead to more serious conditions, such as GI tract perforation, pancreatic deficiency, and celiac disease. 18 HOW CAN I REDUCE THE CHANCES OF BLOATING? You have already made great progress on this journey, and to avoid bloating, it may just take a few simple lifestyle changes to help you avoid this uncomfortable condition. Some of the following options are not considered dire and may not even be in your normal routine now. Consider giving up or cutting down on chewing gum. Swallowing air while chewing gum often leads to excess bloating and might be one of the simplest ways to reduce the chances of having to deal with it. Tips on Handling Bloating Another common change is to limit your intake of carbonated drinks. Fizzy drinks are fizzy because of the amount of carbon dioxide they contain. When you swallow the drink, large amounts of gas enter your stomach, which is why many people belch immediately after they drink these beverages. Try to cut down on them, or, if possible, cut them out entirely. Apart from saving yourself a decent case of gas, you’ll also avoid vast amounts of sugar at the same time. Don’t forget about the classic “gas foods”, like beans, cabbage, lentils, and other vegetables. These contain a special type of sugar that only breaks down in the gut, releasing gas in the process. Also, switching to lactose-free foods will help reduce bloating. Probiotics work well in restoring your gut bacteria balance by introducing billions of good bacteria. In the end, it all comes down to some common-sense things. Eating your food slowly helps reduce air intake, as does avoiding drinking through a straw. Losing weight and adopting these lifestyle changes is a great way to not only continue your own journey but also cut down the chances of bloating. If you happen to experience bloating first hand, a relaxing abdominal massage has been proven to help, not only with abdominal pain and bloating but also with well-being, anxiety, and depression. That means a simple massage will serve to help with several issues, not just one. With your journey now well underway, avoiding bloating may just be the little extra help you need to further make the lifestyle changes your body needs. 19 20 When Things Get More Intense One of the biggest roadblocks most people face on not just their journey is STRESS. That tiny six-letter word seems to become a lot larger the more you focus on it. The key here is to understand your stressors and recognize exactly when they make an appearance. Stress can sneak up on you without ever announcing its arrival. It can leave you with many symptoms as if somehow manifesting itself into your current life. The goal for you is to understand how to identify it, understand how much it affects you, and seek plausible methods to reduce or eliminate it. Until you experience it for the first time, most people don’t even realize they feel stressed until someone else points it out to them. But perhaps you can do that yourself. In a nutshell, stress is an emotional or mental strain that’s brought on by adverse circumstances. Some of the more common triggers for stress: financial burden, career pressure, relationship issues, self-doubt, and the one that most people struggle While understanding what stress is might be a great way to start, it’s more important to know how different stressors affect you. Once you know how stress works, you’ll find it much easier to deal with. DO THESE SYMPTOMS SOUND FAMILIAR? While there are a few more symptoms than listed here, it’s worth knowing the following as they tend to be the most obvious: ACNE. As much as it may surprise you, research has shown that nervous people tend to touch their faces a lot more, thereby spreading bacteria, which help develop acne. While other factors do cause acne as well, it’s worth noting that studies have shown stress as being a common cause. FREQUENT SICKNESS. The links between stress and illness are quite complex. Still, scientists have conducted numerous tests that link the increased risk of being ill with stressful periods. DECREASED ENERGY/INSOMNIA. Researchers are the first to admit that more studies are needed; however, they have discovered definite links between sleeplessness, a lack of energy, and elevated stress levels. LIBIDO. Stress is a well-known cause for changing a person’s sex drive, more so depending on the stress levels being experienced. 21 with— self-image. Of course, there are hundreds of more causes of stress, and it’s up to you to identify which of these affect you. It’s quite common to be suffering from stress due to multiple issues, feeling as if it’s attacking you from various angles. When Things Get More Intense You are confidently working your way through this book and hitting all your goals. It feels great, doesn’t it? When things start to fall into place, it feels as if the entire world has your back. Continue on your journey and focus on the future because that’s where your success lies. UNDERSTAND THE STRESSORS DIGESTIVE ISSUES. Feel like you have an upset stomach? Has your toilet routine changed, you’re suffering from constipation or diarrhea? Stress may well be the cause, linked to the condition through many experiments. APPETITE CHANGES. Loss of hunger or uncontrolled eating has also been linked to stress, leading to even more issues, such as obesity and anorexia. RAPID HEART. Stressed people are known for having an elevated heart rate, especially when the brain refuses to slow down. Stressed people also tend to drink more coffee, leading to a faster heart rate. SWEATING. Another side-effect, causing other side-effects, such as body odor. One of the more chronic issues with stress is gaining weight. It’s one of the essential factors to consider because it’s most likely to affect you through your journey and one you might need to understand a little more in-depth. 22 and you can start today. IT DOESN’T TAKE A LOT OF WORK TO REDUCE STRESS, The sad reality is that many people tend to overeat when stressed. This overeating often leads to rapid weight gain, which then becomes a bigger problem. But overeating may not be the only cause of weight gain. Stressed people will often lose the will to do anything. A lack of energy, resulting in more time spent on the couch, will also add to the weight gain. As you spend more time on the couch overeating and gaining weight, depression soon follows with just the beginning of other ailments, including high blood pressure, heart disease, insomnia, anxiety, and of course, obesity. Once obesity sets in, more problems follow: diabetes, stroke, reproductive issues, increasing joint pain, and reduced lung capacity. And don’t forget about the increased likelihood of certain cancers. When Things Get More Intense 23 THE LINK BETWEEN STRESS AND WEIGHT GAIN Plus, if that’s not enough to convince you of the seriousness of stress, the added pressure of mental health from increased anxiety and depression is also not far behind. That’s a long list of issues from what some people see as just a little problem. Do not underestimate the power of stress or the long road of negative health implications that follow it. Think you already suffer stress and find yourself unsure of how to combat it? Try the following ways to reduce stress today. ELIMINATE THE STRESS OF HAVING STRESS Get a good half hour of exercise, preferably outdoors amongst nature. Listening to some relaxing music during a walk through a park is the perfect option. Good nutrition is essential, so make sure you eat plenty of healthy foods and cut down on the caffeine, sugar, and, of course, alcohol. Don’t be afraid to ask for help from family and friends, read a book, or spend time with a pet. One of the best ways to reduce stress, cut down anxiety, and regain some mental strength, is through simple breathing exercises. It doesn’t have to be complicated or done in a unique way. Simply relax, find a quiet place, and sit comfortably. Start with a simple breath in through the nose, then slowly exhale through the mouth and whisper the words “relax relax relax” throughout each exhalation. This is a standard method and one you can use at home, at the store, or even while driving, if needed, but don’t close your eyes behind the wheel. You’ve come so far already, and conquering this debilitating condition is a massive step forward. 24 Mindfulness and Stress Relief We may have mentioned confidence as the outcome of weight loss, but here we will turn this idea around and focus on confidence as our primary goal. The techniques we’ll discuss should help you embrace your natural body needs. Every meal is an opportunity to nourish yourself. Every workout is an opportunity to appreciate your body and feel its movements. Enjoying this process, being mindful about it, and listening to yourself is a straight path to success. NO MATTER HOW OFTEN YOU DENY THAT, YOU DESERVE TO PUT YOURSELF FIRST. You may have tried various diets, exercising, and cutting calories in the past, but nothing worked. How does that make you feel? Have you forgiven yourself for all the times you’ve fallen off the wagon? Are you grateful for the fact that, all things considered, you are still strong enough to try again? Forgive your body if it’s incapable of fully completing some of the exercises right now. You will build up to it. Forgive yourself if you’re still struggling with saying “no” to food that’s not good for your body. It takes time to form these habits and become stronger both physically and mentally. Forgiveness plays a huge role in this – never forget that! Forgive, make healthy decisions one day at a time, and watch your life transform! LESSON 2: LEARNING HOW TO COMMUNICATE WITH YOURSELF If your friend told you, “Look at yourself, you’re disgusting!” would you remain friends with that person? No way! So, why do we feel like it’s okay to talk to ourselves like that? Just like when you’re facing a bully, you need to stand up for yourself and talk back. SAY, “LOOK AT YOURSELF. YOU’RE SO STRONG FOR DOING WHAT’S BEST FOR YOUR BODY.” Yeah, you may have been weak before, but who cares! The important thing is that every right decision leads you to a better future. And if you stumble along the way, pick yourself up. You can do this! LESSON 3: COMPARING YOURSELF TO OTHERS Social media is a painful subject for just about anyone who’s trying to lose weight. However, comparing someone else’s journey to yours is just self-destructive. We created this weight loss book specifically for you – this fact alone suggests that someone else’s weight loss method would not be as effective as a personalized diet. We strongly stand by this argument. Remember the last person you compared yourself to. Do you know exactly what that person did to achieve 25 that fit body? Do you know how many times that person failed or compared themselves to someone else? We’re all imperfect human beings. There’s no use in comparing your first month to someone else’s first year. And if that doesn’t help, think about the time and energy you use to scroll through social media. You could spend that time on exercise, meditation, and learning instead. If having a picture of your favorite supermodel on the fridge helps you fight the temptations, then that’s totally up to you. However, never forget that you are not trying to achieve the results you see in that picture. You are trying to unleash a better version of YOU. That’s all that matters! Mindfulness and Stress Relief In this chapter, we’ll forget about tangible results, about looking good in a bikini on vacation, showing off in front of an ex, and fitting into those skinny jeans. Instead, we will focus on your core values and a peaceful mindset. LESSON 1: FORGIVING YOURSELF LESSON 4: CHOOSING THE RIGHT EXERCISES AT THE RIGHT TIME There’s nothing like busting through stress and getting those frustrations out with a high-intensity training session. But the truth is that sometimes a tough and grueling workout isn’t the best thing when you feel stressed out. Exercises like yoga, walking, tai chi, or even swimming have a more calming effect, and they don’t increase your body’s production of cortisol and adrenaline as much as intense exercises do. If you enjoy them, alternate the days you perform a more moderate-intensity exercise with those high-intensity power workouts. LESSON 5: PRACTICING MINDFULNESS FOR STRESS RELIEF How often do you catch yourself feeling anxious or even paralyzed with worry? Are you having trouble making decisions? Is your mind racing? Are you seeking numbing activities to “get away from it all”? Finding peace in the midst of chaos requires powerful mental health skills. We live with stress every day, without even realizing it’s this that leaves us feeling exhausted, irritable, and unwell. And not only does it affect our overall health but our weight, too. The main stress hormone, cortisol, influences our ability to make healthy food choices, messes with our blood sugar, stimulates cravings, and promotes calories to be stored as fat rather than be used as energy. 26 So, in order to reduce stress, let’s come back into the PRESENT MOMENT. Feeling grounded is the foundation of self-control, self-expression, and feeling alive. Practice these grounding techniques at least twice a week to bust through stress and bring about a better sense of calm to your being. 1 TRACING YOUR BREATHING Find a peaceful moment in your daily routine to practice mindful breathing. It could be at any time, such as in the evening before bedtime or even during your lunch break at work. 3 2 THE BENEFITS OF MEDITATION Deeper relaxation Reduced stress and anxiety EXPERIENCING YOUR FOOD The fact that you bought this book tells us that you’re trying to improve your relationship with food. You’re ready to make smarter choices and nourish your body with meals that benefit your health. However, don’t forget that every relationship starts with intimacy. In order to fully appreciate it, you first need to connect with it. So, the next time you’re preparing a meal, try to approach each ingredient with love. No matter how silly it feels, hold it in your hands, slice it with extra care, and appreciate it. Even if you’re eating alone, set up your table nicely, light some candles, and prepare to explore the world of flavors (whatever you do, just don’t turn on your TV!). When eating your meal, take small bites and think about the way it tastes and smells, and then notice the subtle flavors that linger on your tongue. Practice mindful eating at least once a week, and soon you’ll notice how even a quick bite turns into a ritual! 27 The most effective way to do grounded walking meditation is to walk barefoot on the grass or at the beach. Feeling the earthy texture under your feet, tracing the rhythm of your footsteps, and concentrating on even the slightest sensation is a straight path to feeling more grounded. According to research, having close contact with Mother Earth also works as a simple, natural, and very effective remedy against chronic stress, inflammation, poor sleep, pain, and even cardiovascular disease. Mindfulness and Stress Relief Just close your eyes and focus on the pure sensations of breathing. Inhale and notice what the air feels like moving through your nose or mouth, and then exhale and feel the new sensations. Notice how the air moves from your chest and through your throat, nose, and mouth. Allow your body to fully relax and feel your own presence. Aim to practice mindful breathing for 10 minutes every other day. GROUNDED WALKING MEDITATION 4 Try to practice these grounding techniques at least twice a week, and soon you’ll be able to create space from distressing feelings in nearly any situation. Lower blood cholesterol levels Lower heart rate MINDFULNESS MEDITATION Improved blood circulation Sometimes our thoughts seem inescapable, overwhelming, or even exhausting. And that’s where the beauty of meditation comes in. Lower blood pressure Less perspiration And more… To practice mindfulness meditation, all you need to do is sit down, close your eyes, and observe your wandering thoughts as they drift through your mind. There’s no need to engage or judge them. Instead, simply try to be fully aware of them. Through mindfulness meditation, you will see that thoughts and feelings have a tendency to move in particular patterns. You will overcome the habit of judging each thought as good or bad, learn to accept them without overanalyzing, and discover the beauty of inner balance. Even if these benefits are worth mentioning, keep in mind that the purpose of meditation has nothing to do with achieving them. It’s the exact opposite. The goal of meditation is to reduce that anxious feeling of need. It’s about being present and discovering inner harmony. 28 Everything About Sleep Fun fact, not everybody needs the same amount of sleep per night. Every human is unique, and what each person’s sleep recommendations are will ultimately come down to genes and lifestyle. Your exact sleep number is based on your age, health, daily activities, and what food and drink you chose to consume. One of the most obvious answers to the question above is that there’s no such thing as an average person, and that includes you. See? You always knew you were special. And now, with a little bit of guidance and good research, we can show you just how much sleep you need. AGE Where you are in life is one of the most significant factors in determining how much sleep you should aim for. Consider the following table: Age Range Recommended Hours of Sleep 0–3 Months 14–17 4–11 Months 12–15 TODDLER 1–2 Years 11–14 PRESCHOOL 3–5 Years 10–13 6–13 Years 9–11 TEEN 14–17 Years 8–10 Y O U N G A D U LT 18–25 Years 7–9 A D U LT 24–64 Years 7–9 65+ Years 7–8 NEWBORN I N FA N T Admit it. You know that you should be getting 7–8 hours of sleep a night, and you know it’s right for you. As for now, you’re doing a great job in keeping up with your sleeping pattern. Nevertheless, if you’ll ever experience slips in your night routine - remember this chapter. It will help you get back on the right track. Now, let’s try to understand why it’s crucial to maintain a steady balance. When it comes to sleep, it’s not just about the quantity; it’s also about the quality of time spent slumbering. To get a perfect night’s slumber, you need deep, restful sleep. Without it, it doesn’t matter how many hours you spend counting sheep – you won’t wake rested, and you won’t be getting the most out of your bedtime. SCHOOL-AGE O L D E R A D U LT In today’s world, most people tend to skimp on their sleep thanks to their more demanding lifestyles. So how can you get the best rest possible without wasting your whole life between the sheets? OTHER FACTORS Continue reading to know why you need both of these things. We get it. There are plenty of other priorities in life. Learning to balance other life factors as best as possible could result in better sleep in the long run. Other sleep factors to consider when understanding how much sleep you need include: Work schedule Everything About Sleep How was your beauty sleep last night? HOW MUCH SLEEP THE AVERAGE PERSON NEEDS Personal health and medical history Profession Amount of daily physical activity 29 Amount of focus-heavy activities 30 DOES SLEEP QUALITY REALLY MATTER? HOW TO IMPROVE YOUR SLEEP Yes. To give yourself the very best start to each and every day, quality sleep really matters. Research has shown that when quality sleep is lacking, all other bodily functions are negatively affected. To give you the best possible chance of having a relaxing and restful night of sleep, here are several suggestions on creating the perfect sleep environment. For an idea of just how important some good Zs are… Researchers have attributed the lack of quality sleep as directly linked to poor mental and physical health, safety concerns, and decreased quality of life. This is especially true for young children and teens, as it has been shown that sleep also promotes growth and brain development. Certain instances that may be attributed to poor sleep include instant consequences, like a fatigue-induced car crash, and long-term consequences, such as mental health issues. While some effects may not seem severe, consider how your life could be affected overall. Combine irritability, a lesser ability to learn, poor work performance, and fumbling simple interactions with the people around you – not good. While some people don’t see a lack of sleep as detrimental, researchers have found direct links between sleep quality and depression, risk-taking, and suicide. And while the mental health and well-being are alarming, the physical consequences could be considered even worse. A few of the physical conditions linked to a lack of quality sleep include: High blood pressure Regardless of where you are, where you go, or what you do, try and remain consistent with what time you go to bed. The more your body gets used to going to bed at the same time, the more it will subconsciously prepare itself and wind down for a good rest. Create Your Ideal Sleeping Environment Start with a supportive mattress and make sure it’s suited to you. Too hard or too soft, and your mattress could work against you. Test your mattress out in-store and only choose something you’re comfortable lying in for one-third of your life. This is where you will spend a lot of time. Complete the set up with comfy pillows and blankets that compliment your mattress. Heart disease Obesity Diabetes Stroke In short, sleep matters, and the quality of snoozing that you allow yourself matters too. This is why it’s essential for you to reevaluate your sleeping patterns, as well as the environment you plan to slumber in. 31 Perform an Evening Ritual to Get You Into the Mood There could be several helpful things, including taking a warm bath or shower before bed, reading a book, or listening to calming music. Choose something that you know relaxes you and, thus, promote quality sleep. Make Those Needed and Long-Overdue Lifestyle Changes Everything About Sleep THE SIDE EFFECTS OF A BAD NIGHT’S SLEEP Start by Sticking to a Regular Sleep Schedule Sometimes, certain activities or habits may influence your chances for a great sleep without ever being directly involved with your before-bed ritual. Consider things like caffeine intake during the day or the time of your last energy drink. Think about the use of laptops, video games, or cell phones during the final hour or two before your sleep time. Take the Steps Tonight for a Better Tomorrow It may not seem like much, but losing as little as a single hour of quality sleep could have a detrimental effect on a lot more than just your mood the following day. Start tonight even and choose to do one thing you know will help promote a better sleep cycle. There’s never been a better time than right now! Have a good night! 32 Getting 33 Getting Started started 34 Want to lose weight and lose it fast? Who wouldn’t? It’s only natural that you’d prefer to have your dream body NOW. However, evidence shows that those who lose weight gradually and steadily (up to 2lb/0.9kg per week) are more successful at keeping the weight off in the long term. Everyone’s body and metabolism is unique, but if you follow the plan that we have created FOR YOU, without any excuses, you can expect to lose somewhere between 1lb/0.5kg and 3lb/1.4kg per week. ON TOP OF THAT, YOU’LL GET TO ENJOY THESE MARVELOUS HEALTH BENEFITS: IMPROVED HEALTH REFUSED TO EAT PIZZA Blood pressure Cholesterol levels Mobility Blood sugar levels TIME AT THE PUB Risk of heart disease Risk of certain cancers Joint pain Risk of stroke Back pain 35 NEXT DAY NEXT DAY IMPROVED LIFESTYLE A more active social life A boost in confidence Improved energy Lower stress levels DECREASED Risk of diabetes ATE PIZZA After Our Program After all, healthy weight loss isn’t just about a “diet” or a “program.” It’s an ongoing lifestyle that requires practice, patience, and changes in daily eating and exercise habits. This book will help you form these new habits. Think about it. Even if you start with a modest weight loss, such as 5–10% of your total body weight, you will still feel better than you did before starting the 28-day plan. You’ll feel improvements in blood pressure, blood cholesterol, blood sugars, and so much more. Dealing With Social Pressure SATISFACTION After Our Program After all, healthy weight loss isn’t just about a “diet” or a “program.” It’s an ongoing lifestyle that requires practice, patience, and changes in daily eating and exercise habits. As you can see, there are plenty of reasons to start living a healthy lifestyle. Even if your final goal seems overwhelming at the moment, try to see it as a journey rather than a final destination. After all, the biggest challenge you’ll have to face is social pressure. In the next chapter, we will discuss these dangers in more depth and offer tips that will help you succeed. So you’ve decided to start your diet – congratulations! However, you are still not fully sure and are having second thoughts because, oh, wait, there’s a friend’s birthday party next weekend. Or a movie night the following week. Who watches movies without a ton of crunchy caramel popcorn and a liter of coke? LOSERS! We hope that you get the irony. Don’t skip important and entertaining events just because you are on a diet. Even if your friends and family love to tempt you with rich, high-calorie goodies (and we are not going to lie, it will be difficult to resist at the very beginning), you don’t have to cave in when you’re under pressure. To illustrate how these slips can affect your mood, we prepared a satisfaction chart. Take a look at it and try to imagine this situation: Imagine that you’re out with friends and all of you go to a local restaurant. You pick a healthy meal from the menu and watch your friends eat nachos and pizza without counting the calories. At that exact moment, you really want to take a bite. Now, let’s say you take that bite, or even order the whole pizza. Your satisfaction level reaches its peak. You wanted that cheesy pizza so bad, and now you’re digging in. However, after 15 minutes, the table is empty, the stomachs are full, and you feel guilty. Is the satisfaction really worth the self-loathing you’ll feel the next day? The blue line indicates a better scenario: You feel uncomfortable the moment you resist and the evening continues, no matter if you took the bite or not. The only difference is, now you feel confident, strong, and proud of yourself. This feeling is worth a thousand pizzas. After all, it’s not about food. People choose to spend time with you because of your personality, and not because you eat the same foods as they do. You don’t necessarily have to turn into that annoying person who doesn’t go out, who screams out loud, “I’m on a diet!” before every meal. Or even worse, someone who judges others for their eating choices. Keep it as casual as it is. Eat your food, let others eat their food, and enjoy the company! And if you still don’t feel confident enough, here are a few quick tips that will make these situations even easier to handle. 36 Tips & Tricks Bonus Tip GIVE IT TIME The hardest part of handling social pressure is getting yourself (and everyone else) over the “hump.” The hump is when your food choices seem strange and new. It’s totally normal to feel this way. Everyone feels a bit weird when adapting to a new habit. You might question whether it is really worth the struggle. The only answer is YES, it is. The challenges we discussed above might make you feel like it would be easier to avoid social interactions for the next 28 days, but it shouldn’t be like that. In fact, you could use them to your advantage and seek support instead. Go back to the satisfaction chart and ask yourself, is it really worth it? When you’ll learn how to look at this “social pressure” monster in a simpler way, it won’t seem so scary anymore. Plus, now you know how to tame it! HAVE A ONE-LINE EXPLANATION READY TO GO Just give yourself a little time to adjust and prove how strong you are. Always remember to visualize the results you want to achieve and the goals you’ve written down earlier. That should be enough to keep you motivated. You don’t owe anyone excuses. You don’t need to explain why you are on a diet and how you are trying to change your lifestyle. Don’t make it look like a big deal. This will help you to avoid unnecessary questions, comments, and opinions. To help you out, we have listed the most popular tactics people use to successfully reach their goals. Be wise and pick the one that best fits your lifestyle and personality. EAT BEFORE GOING OUT Don’t leave your home on an empty stomach. Eat a healthy meal before you go and pack some snacks if you’re planning on staying late. This simple, effective trick will help you to avoid overeating at restaurants or buying unnecessary food items when you’re at the grocery store. ORDER YOUR MEAL BEFORE EVERYONE ELSE I’ll sign a contract with myself. “I’ve just been trying to eat better.” I can totally do this alone. “I’m stuffed, delicious!” I’ll make a bet with my friend. but this looks Ever noticed that when you’re out with friends and the waiter asks, “What would you like to order?” half the people order the same thing? Other people can influence our decisions more than we know. If you’re eating with a group that is likely to order something that doesn’t fit into your diet plan, make sure you order first. This way, it will be too late to change your mind! “I wanna retake control of my habits, not letting my habits to control me” ALWAYS THINK ABOUT YOUR GOAL “My doctor told me I need to lose weight, or I’ll have diabetes within 2 or 3 years.” Always remember the reasons why you started this diet in the first place and picture the results you want to achieve after your 28-day challenge is over. If you keep craving junk food, drink a glass of water and think how having one bad meal would affect your progress. 37 It’s YOUR journey, not theirs. And when it comes to refusing those tempting junk food offers, you can always use these one-line explanation phrases: Tips & Tricks Some people are lonely travelers and some of us feel more confident having like-minded people by our side. All types are fine! You can beat this challenge alone or find communities of health-conscious people or choose a close person to lean on if it suddenly gets tough. Holding yourself accountable can greatly increase your chances of successful weight loss. “My doctor said I have a lot of nutritional deficiencies because I wasn’t eating enough healthy food.” I’ll include my spouse roommate in healthy eating. or I’ll find some peers to do the program with or join an online forum/community. [Insert your own tactic] Made your decision? Okay, we think you’re ready to go! “I’ve been struggling with food for a long time and I feel like I’m finally finding a way of eating that works for me.” 38 Tracking Your Weight Loss Progress The numbers you see highly depend on what you eat, how much water you drink, whether you have gone to the bathroom recently, and other factors. Also, since you live with your body every day, you may not even notice some of the amazing changes it’s going through. Therefore, if you measure yourself, you should always follow the given guidelines to do it accurately. CHEST: Measure directly under your breasts or pecs, as high up as you can. WAIST: Measure at the narrowest point, typically around the navel. HIPS: Measure around the widest part of your hips/ hip bones. ARMS: Measure above your elbows and aim for the largest part of your arm. THIGHS: Measure around the largest part of your leg, while standing up. 39 (You can always measure additional problematic areas if needed.) To notice actual results and stay motivated throughout your journey, you should check your measurements and weight every seventh day. If possible, aim to do it in the morning, after the bathroom, and before your first glass of water and meal. If it’s giving you a sense of accomplishment, write down your measurements every week to see how they’re changing. However, never forget that these numbers can’t measure the way you feel. Aim for glowing skin, improved health, and that amazing energy boost you feel after a good workout. Those are the primary benefits you should focus on. After all, it’s not a race! It’s about nurturing a healthy relationship with your body and giving it the best conditions to carry you through life successfully. When it comes to weight loss progress tracking, it shouldn’t be only about the numbers on the scales. The two words losing weight from itself mean slimming down. You want to lose weight around the hips, thighs, belly, and arms. But the odd thing about slimming down is that it doesn’t always mean losing actual weight off the scale. During the first few weeks of losing weight, a rapid drop in weight is standard. In part, this is because when you cut calories, the body gets needed energy initially by releasing its stores of glycogen, a type of carbohydrate found in the muscles and liver. Glycogen is partly made of water, so when glycogen is burned for energy, it releases water, resulting in weight loss that’s mostly water. Tracking Your Weight Loss Progress If you check your weight loss progress every day, there won’t be much progress to be proud of. In fact, do yourself a favor and don’t focus on the scales too much. Losing Weight vs. Slimming Down That’s why we highly recommend you not just use the scales for your progress tracking but start measuring your body for a better understanding. Remember that your body loses weight based on your gender, age, genetics, and other factors beyond your control. Just because you aren’t losing weight in your hips doesn’t mean you’re not losing weight somewhere. It may just be from a place you don’t care about much. When you lose the retained and burned water from glycogen, at some point, you might see that your body measurements decrease without actually seeing a change in your weight. It happens when you lose body fat while gaining muscle. Your weight may stay the same, even as you lose inches, a sign that you’re moving in the right direction. The number on the scale includes muscles, fat, bones, organs, food, and water. 40 Your 41 Your Training Guide training guide 42 How to Start exercise and diet regimen matters more than the quantity. Doesn’t it sound exciting? There are even more benefits of staying active, which you’ll find out yourself throughout this book. At the same time, all of them are best experienced when practiced. Better let’s cover all the basics you need to know about exercising – from the right mindset down to the practical knowledge – so you could start training with more confidence. To begin with, we’re not asking you to buy expensive gear or spend hundreds of dollars on gym memberships. Your body weight is the only tool you need. Working against your body weight will stimulate all your muscles, improve your cardiovascular health, burn more fat, and help shape the body lines you want. We recommend doing different workouts that mainly focus on your full body, legs, and upper body, plus your core. Each workout should last no longer than 45 minutes (that’s including a warm-up and cool-down). Don’t forget to include some low-intensity steady-state (LISS) cardio sessions as well. LISS training consists of any low-endurance workouts, such as walking, swimming, or cycling – all at a relaxed level. These sessions will help you recover after a highintensity exercise and reduce the risk of injuries. One LISS session should last somewhere between 30–60 min. You might break a light sweat, but nothing more. 43 We can’t stress this enough: you must warm up your body before a workout. It increases the temperature and flexibility of your muscles, helps you be more efficient during workouts, and reduces muscle stiffness. Warm-up exercises should be done dynamically, incorporating all of your body’s muscle groups. Cooling down after a workout is just as important. After physical activity, your heart is still beating faster than normal, your body temperature is higher, and your blood vessels are dilated. This means that if you stop your exercises too quickly, you may start feeling sick or even pass out. A cool-down after physical activity allows a gradual decrease at the end of a workout. When you’re cooling down, you should stretch while your limbs, muscles, and joints are still warm. It will help to reduce the buildup of lactic acid, which could lead to muscle cramps and stiffness. The stretch should be strong, but not painful. Exhale as you stretch, inhale while holding the stretch, and don’t bounce. Your cool-down stretching should last for around 5 minutes. QUALITY OVER QUANTITY There’s a reason why every exercise comes with a set of instructions. If you want to achieve the best possible results, you must remember that proper form, posture, and exercise technique are key. Only proper form can place your body in its strongest position – allowing you to breathe more efficiently – and ensure that you will safely gain the full benefits of your strength training program. With that said, exercising can be a big challenge at first. However, when your goal is to lose weight and maintain optimal health and fitness, the quality of your Don’t push yourself too much and take small steps at a time. It’s totally fine if you can’t do all the squat reps – decrease the number where you find yourself most comfortable and still be motivated to continue with the rest of the exercise program. It might be impossible for the first week or two, but we assure you that you’ll see the progress in the third week! REST DAYS There’s no need to be extreme. In the beginning, you might feel like you could exercise every day, climb Mount Everest, and run a marathon. But giving your body time to recover is one of the most important parts of successful exercise and weight loss. Rest days allow our bodies to replenish energy stores and repair muscle tissue. Ignoring your body’s needs could lead to the dangerous state of overtraining, decreased performance, elevated blood pressure, decreased immunity, disturbed sleep, and more. We’re not saying you should lay in bed and watch TV all day. Clearly, going for a walk or cleaning up the house is fine, but try to avoid doing anything that requires strength on rest days. The rule is to never try to do two workouts a day. That would be too much and possibly ruin your relationship with exercise altogether. Also, if you are ill and unable to exercise, just try to stick to the nutrition plan and get back on track when you feel better. MUSCLE SORENESS Muscle soreness or Delayed Onset of Muscle Soreness (DOMS) usually peaks 48–72 hours after a workout. That’s when your body is working on repairing muscle fibers that were torn during exercise. The level of pain you experience highly depends on how much damage has been done, how hydrated you are, and other factors like genetics. However, keep in mind that experiencing an extreme level of soreness isn’t something you should make a habit of. Your Training Guide Staying active is like fuel to your body – it can enhance faster oxygen and nutrient absorption into your muscles and make your cardiovascular system work more efficiently. In that sense, as you exercise, you will boost the performance of your cardiovascular system and increase the energy levels that can be used to do activities you enjoy. THE IMPORTANCE OF A WARM-UP AND A COOL-DOWN Doing a specific exercise with improper form can, and often does, lead to injury. An injury would get in the way of your training program and possibly have a permanent negative effect on your body, and this would mean taking a huge step back from your fitness regime. So instead of focusing on quantity, do less repetition of the same exercise but commit to practicing proper posture. After all, practice makes perfect, right? time to recover Exercising can keep your muscles strong and improve joint flexibility, thus allowing you to move more easily. It promotes the release of endorphins – the happiness hormones that can improve your mood and help ensure stable mental health. The most important thing to keep in mind is that your breathing has to be fairly steady, and you need to stretch after each LISS session. You will find some great stretching exercises in the next section. GIVE YOUR BODY Regular physical activity is an essential part of your wellness journey, no matter if you are reaching for a fitter body, healthy weight goals, or simply happier life. hate relationship with exercise anyway. That’s totally understandable and there’s no need to be too hard on yourself. If you skip your workout day due to unexpected circumstances, you can always catch up. Simply move your workout session to your designated rest day and continue following your workout schedule as normal. It’s understandable that when you’re feeling sore, working out is the last thing on your mind. However, not getting off your couch all day would be the worst thing you could do. In fact, you should turn to strength training, no matter how daunting the idea of exercise might seem. Increasing blood flow and nutrients to your muscles speeds up the healing process, which in turn reduces DOMS. Muscle soreness usually disappears within 72 hours. However, if you are still experiencing soreness, you can also try massages, low-intensity activity, nerve mobilization, hot baths, or a sauna. DOMS is not the same thing as an injury, but if it lasts for more than 7 days, you should probably pay a visit to your doctor. After the so-called honeymoon period, you’ll probably develop a love-hate relationship with exercise anyway. That’s totally understandable and there’s no need to be too hard on yourself. After the so-called honeymoon period, you’ll probably develop a love- 44 Inhale, Exhale We know that breathing seems like a small detail to focus on compared to tallying 100 or even just 10 push-ups, but you’ll be surprised by how much proper breathing techniques can improve your performance, stamina, and even recovery rate. It may seem like a simple task at first, but developing long-lasting and healthy breathing habits actually takes a little knowledge and practice. After all, proper breathing while exercising can benefit you in ways you wouldn’t expect. For example, correct your posture. The muscles you use to support your posture are essentially the same muscles that help you breathe. Learning how to breathe properly prevents dizziness, cramping, aids in muscle recovery, and improves your overall performance. So, bear in mind that poor breathing habits can be detrimental to your fitness performance as well as your general enjoyment of exercising. We understand that you’re willing to put in the maximum effort to reach your fitness goals, and we’re here to make sure that your effort takes you all the way. Learning to breathe properly during exercise will ensure your efforts won’t be wasted – not a single breath! Nose vs. mouth breathing during exercise When it comes to exercising and fitness, breathing from the top of your chest uses your neck and shoulder muscles inefficiently. Chest breathing can increase tension in these areas and even weaken your diaphragm. Since the breaths from your chest are shorter and shallower, they don’t allow your lungs to reallocate the oxygen it needs to your muscles, therefore compromising your blood flow. You may be surprised to know that there’s no blackletter law between which kind of breathing is better for exercise. Generally, you’ll find that breathing through your mouth faces less resistance than breathing through your nose. So, if you’re having trouble breathing through your nose during your fitness routine, it’s perfectly ok to breathe through your mouth. Breathing from your belly or abdomen, however, allows you to store a larger amount of oxygen during exercise. This allows more oxygen to reach your muscles and increases your overall energy and stamina. And, as we all know, some days you need all the energy you can get. Breathing while exercising For proper diaphragmatic breathing, follow these instructions: 1. Seat yourself in a comfortable position or lay down flat on your back. 2. Relax your shoulders. 3. Place one hand on your chest and the other one on your belly. 4. 5. Breathe in through your nose for about 2 seconds. Allow the air to move from your nostrils to your abdomen, expanding your stomach. During this breathing exercise, make sure you keep your chest relatively still. Purse your lips (like you’re drinking through a straw), press your hand lightly down on your stomach, and exhale calmly for 2 seconds. For the most effective results, you can repeat this procedure several times. 45 As a rule of thumb, more intense exercises require greater oxygen intake and carbon dioxide expulsion. Therefore, while you’re able to breathe just fine through your nose during lighter exercises, you may find it more comfortable to breathe through your mouth for your heavier exercise regimens. Inhale, Exhale Whether you’re striving to finish that last rep or improve your jogging results, when it comes to exercising, you generally focus on accomplishing your main objective. And while we know how important it is to meet your fitness goals, how you go about achieving those physical feats is also crucial. Oftentimes, the simplest things – like breathing – are overlooked. Chest breathing vs. belly breathing We all know that walking and running are the staples of a good workout routine. A good way to find a rhythm while doing either is by following a 3:2 ratio between inhaling and exhaling your breaths. To make it simpler, you should basically inhale for three steps and exhale during the other two. However, if you’re sprinting, you’ll naturally fall into a 2:1 breathing ratio, and that’s perfectly ok! It’s also a good practice to properly manage your breathing during more physical exercises. An easy way to do it is to inhale just before the eccentric (muscle lengthening) part of the exercise and exhale during the concentric (muscle tightening) part. THE RIGHT FOOD AND DRINKS BEFORE AND AFTER YOUR WORKOUT Eating and drinking properly can do wonders for your exercising performance. Your body needs to be nourished before, during, and after exercise in order to maintain the right blood glucose concentration while you put your body in motion. 46 HYDRATION What do you drink? Sometimes, you may find yourself rushing through a meal and jumping right into exercise. We know your time is important, but it’s necessary to give your body at least 2 hours to digest food before a workout. You can reduce the waiting time to an hour only if you eat a light meal. Food and water go hand in hand when it comes to exercise. Water is your friend, and it’s important to get adequate time in with your friend before, during, and after your workout. Water is vital for maintaining your body’s blood volume, regulating your body temperature, and for muscle contraction. Water is a great thirst quencher; however, if you’re doing a high-intensity workout for longer than an hour, we recommend trying a sports drink. Some sports drinks contain calories, potassium, and other nutrients that can provide you with the energy and electrolytes you need to perform for even longer. Before a workout When you work out, you’re bound to sweat. We all sweat. It’s your body’s way of maintaining its core temperature. However, sweating actually results in a loss of bodily fluids, which can cause dehydration. This can lead to muscle cramps, fatigue, dizziness, and other serious symptoms. So, you can’t expect to perform at your highest level if you don’t drink enough water. If you do choose to hydrate with a sports drink, make sure you choose it wisely. There are often brands that contain high calories and levels of sodium, and some even have caffeine in them. Bear in mind that too much caffeine in your diet may have a diuretic effect on your body, so be careful if you don’t want to pay frequent visits to the bathroom. If you’re eating your main meal, aim to consume a 425– 465 calorie plate of healthy fats, carbs, and proteins at least 2 hours before you exercise. Dishes such as whole wheat pasta with cheese, oatmeal with fruit and nuts, Greek yogurt with fruit, or even a veggie omelet toast can be great pre-workout meals to get you fueled. If you’re having a snack, choose something easily digestible and containing around 170–185 calories. It’s ok to wait just half an hour before you exercise after a snack. Basically, the smaller your meal, the less you have to wait before you get your blood pumping. After a workout There’s no precise rule for you to follow when it comes to hydration. That’s because everyone is different. Factors you can consider are: your sweat rate, humidity, the temperature of your environment, and the length of your workout. What you eat after your workout is just as important as what you put in your body before you exercise. It’s important to understand how your body functions in order to help it out. The following guidelines are suggested for drinking water before, during, and after exercise: When you exercise, your muscles deplete their glycogen stores for fuel. In turn, some proteins in your muscles are broken down and damaged. That’s why it’s important for you to eat a proper meal after a workout. Drink 17—20 ounces of water 2—3 hours before you exercise. Feeding your body a healthy dose of carbs and proteins stimulates protein synthesis within your muscles. A good meal can often not only improve your body’s recovery rate but also help with performance next time you work out. If you’re not able to eat something within 45 minutes after you exercise, it’s important to eat something within a 2-hour window. 47 How much water? If you like, you can even try your hand at making your own sports drink at home. Try mixing 200ml of squash with 800ml of water and mix it with a pinch of salt. This way, you’ll avoid sugar and additives in your drink as well as save money. DEHYDRATION If you lose more fluid than you drink, you’ll experience dehydration. Your body can’t function properly without enough water. Dehydration’s effects can range from mild to severe. Some of its symptoms include the following: Drink 8 ounces of water 20—30 minutes before you start exercising or doing your warm-up. Dizziness or a lightheaded sensation Vomiting or nausea Muscle cramps Drink 7—10 ounces of water every 10—20 minutes while you’re working out. Drink 8 ounces of water no more than 30 minutes after you’re done exercising. Inhale, Exhale After a meal, wait Dry mouth Lack of sweating Dehydration can have severe effects on your sports performance and overall health. Make sure to drink at least two and a half bottles of water throughout the day. If you drink enough water and do it evenly throughout the day, you’ll keep yourself hydrated, get the most out of your workouts, and feel good too! A hard and fast heartbeat 48 Your Favorite LISS Workout: It’s time to find an uplifting playlist, put on your headphones and go for a walk! It may not seem like those steps are leading your closer to your health goals, but trust us, they are. Walking is one of the simplest yet possibly the most effective forms of exercise. It’s free to practice (shoes and activewear aside), puts you at minimum risk of injury, and provides numerous health benefits. When you walk, you carry your own weight. That’s why it’s called a weight-bearing exercise. Some benefits of such exercise include: Reduced body fat Increased muscle strength and endurance Improved balance Stronger bones Reduced symptoms of conditions like hypertension (high blood pressure), high cholesterol, joint and muscular pain or stiffness, and even diabetes Reduced risk of stroke and heart disease Increased cardiovascular and pulmonary (heart and lung) fitness 49 When it comes to preparation, all you need is a good pair of sturdy walking shoes. Make sure that they have proper arch support, a firm heel, and thick flexible soles to cushion your feet and absorb shock. As for clothing, you should always prioritize comfort and warmth. If you’re planning on taking these walks more often, keep in mind that your outdoor gear should be appropriate for various types of weather. And most importantly – stay safe. If you’re taking a walk when it’s dark, wear bright colors or reflective tape for visibility and choose a safe walking route near your home. Practicing walking as a LISS exercise requires good posture and purposeful movements. Ideally, here’s how you should look when you’re walking: Your head is up – you’re looking at the road ahead of you, not at the ground Your neck, shoulders, and back are relaxed, not stiffly upright You are swinging your arms freely, keeping them slightly bend (a little pumping with your arms is okay) You’re keeping your stomach muscles slightly tightened and your back is straight (not arched forward or backward!) You are walking smoothly, rolling your foot from heel to toe What’s great about walking is that you can effortlessly change pace, intensity and the distance you’re covering. If you’d like it to be more than just a lower limb exercise, you can start using Nordic Poles (hiking sticks) and walk on different surfaces for added resistance. Carrying something heavy would help you burn more calories and add challenge to your workout. If the weather conditions aren’t appealing, feel free to walk on a treadmill – the end goal is to move around as often as possible. Naturally, walking fast burns more calories than walking slowly, but that doesn’t mean you should push yourself! The rule is – you should still be able to talk while you’re walking. This simple rule of thumb will ensure that you’re walking safely within your target heart rate. Your Favorite LISS Workout: Walking walking PRACTICING WALKING AS A LISS EXERCISE Just like with any other exercise, you’ll get better after each walk. Our bodies tend to get used to physical activity – soon, you’ll feel the need to increase the intensity of your walks. When that happens, you could start: Walking for longer periods of time Increasing the distance of fast-paced walking Increasing the overall speed of walking Walking with hand weights Walking up hills 50 WARM-UP AND COOL-DOWN Your Favorite LISS Workout: Walking When it comes to warm-up, it’s pretty obvious – just start walking slowly to give your muscles time to warm up and gradually increase your pace. Once your walk is done, gently stretch your leg muscles (hold for about 20 seconds and focus on your calves, front and back thighs). Most importantly, don’t force yourself and listen to your body – if you feel any pain, ease off the stretch and don’t bounce or jolt. Ignoring these basic rules may cause microscopic tears and lead to muscle stiffness and tenderness. STAY MOTIVATED AND ENJOY YOUR WALKS! You may be tracking steps on your smartphone already, but now you’ll have a chance to get slightly competitive about it! If you think it would boost your motivation, get a fitness tracker or download a walking app. This way, you’ll be able to set weekly goals and record these numbers in a walking journal. Whichever way you’ll approach this, just make sure that you’re having fun with it. Listen to your favorite music, invite your loved ones to join you, and explore different paths. Soon enough, you’ll notice how this great exercise is improving your weight loss results and the overall quality of your life. Walking creates an amazing opportunity to enjoy the nature surrounding you, visit beautiful parks and nearby beaches. After all, the exercise you enjoy is the one you’ll stick to in the long run! 51 52 right now “I just don’t feel like it today…” Even if you’re not in the mood to exercise, you’re still physically capable of doing it. So, just do it! Catch yourself making excuses and rise above them. The moment you do something beneficial for yourself (even if you feel like you really don’t want to) is the moment you are strengthening your willpower. That’s exactly how good habits are developed – grinding through until it becomes easy. Instead of saying, “I just don’t feel like it today,” say, “I’m doing this because I want to feel good about myself tomorrow.” Train your willpower and become stronger than your excuses. “I’m too tired…” Okay, we must admit, this is a legit excuse if you’ve been running a charity marathon with your colleagues or been on an intensive mountain hike that day. Three Workout Excuses You Should Ditch Right Now Three Workout Excuses You Should Ditch However, if you’ve been sitting at your work desk for 8 hours straight, this excuse is simply not acceptable. Now, we’re not saying that office jobs are easy – they are tiring both mentally and emotionally, and we know that you often feel even more tired after a workout – but as counterintuitive as it sounds, we can promise that you will feel relaxed and happy. And that’s not an empty statement! After exercise, your body releases endorphins – natural chemicals that make you feel relaxed and full of energy. “I don’t have enough time…” This is a lousy excuse, and let us explain why. Let’s say your exercise takes 45 minutes. In fact, let’s make it an hour if we count the time it takes to get dressed for a workout and take a shower afterward. One hour equals 4% of your day. If you’re working out at home, that means you don’t even need extra time to drive to the gym. All you need is to wake up an hour earlier or scroll less on social media after dinner. We understand that schedules can be hectic. But note that simplicity in life is really important. If your work or social regime is too complex, it limits your ability to adapt to your nutrition and training schedule as necessary. Trust us and trust yourself – YOU CAN DO IT! If you are really determined to achieve your goals, you have to prioritize. 53 54 28 days: perfect body’s DNA Healthy Eating Essentials 55 Healthy eating essentials 56 Welcome to the Tastiest Part of the Book! THE MOST COMMON COOKING MISTAKES: 1. Overcrowding Your Pan It’s easy to make this mistake, especially if you’re cooking a large meal. One-pan meals might be efficient, but cooking too much food in a small vessel can prevent those foods from cooking the way you want them to. When the whole surface of the pan is covered, the heat gets trapped, which leads to steam. As a result, steam prevents browning and browning is essential for keeping your food juicy and flavorful. 2. Not Using Enough Water When Boiling Pasta Still haven’t found an efficient way to cook pasta? Contrary to popular belief, adding olive oil doesn’t help. Instead, make sure that you use 57 enough water when you’re boiling pasta. This way, it won’t stick together! Use plenty of water – probably more than you think you need. In fact, for every pound of pasta you cook, you should use about 5 quarts of water. 3. Using Extra Virgin Olive Oil to Cook Everything You might think that extra virgin olive oil is the healthiest option, but using it over super-high heat can do more damage than good. Compared to some oils, extra virgin olive oil has a relatively low smoke point (the temperature at which it starts to burn). The same rule applies to flaxseed and coconut oil. These oils contain nutritional compounds that can 4. Measuring Dry Ingredients in a Liquid Measuring Cup When it comes to baking, measuring the ingredients correctly is key. Never use your liquid measuring cup for dry ingredients. Instead, use a simple spoon-and-level method where you simply scrape off the overflow, leaving behind a level surface and an accurate measurement. Easy! 5. Placing Cold Meat in a Hot Pan, Grill, or Oven Take your meat out of the refrigerator about 30 minutes before cooking. Letting cold meat come up to room temperature before tossing it on heat will make it cook more evenly so you won’t have to worry about burning the outside while the inside isn’t quite there yet. The same rule applies to chicken. 6. Adding Garlic Too Early Most recipes instruct you to add garlic last. That’s a great rule, especially if you’re cooking minced garlic over a high heat. If garlic is the first thing you add to the pan, unfortunately it will also be the first thing to burn. So do yourself a favor and never make this mistake. 7. Using Too Much Seasoning and Dressings We all love to add that extra dash of seasoning or dressing to our salads and sandwiches. However, dressings carry a huge amount of sodium, which can lead to water retention. So if you’re trying to eat healthy, think twice before loading your meal with soy sauce or mayonnaise. 8. Frying Your Food It’s hard to say “no” to fried food. However, frying can turn even the healthiest foods into greasy, trans fat-laden treats that may lead to diabetes and heart conditions. All those fresh vegetables and lean meats are worth nothing once you toss them in a hot pot of oil. Luckily, there’s still an easy solution that allows you to enjoy fried food without the risk of gaining weight: an air fryer! All you need is a teaspoon of oil and you can fry any food in the healthiest way possible. 9. Using Bad Cookware Cookware is usually the last thing we think about when preparing food. But did you know that the famous nonstick cookware can actually damage your health? It usually contains Teflon, which contains a chemical known as perfluorooctanoic acid that could cause serious health problems. It’s best to go back to basics and choose cookware that is made of cast iron, glass, ceramic, or stainless steel. turn soggy will drain all the important nutrients out of them, so it’s best to stir-fry lightly or blanch them in hot water if you’re making soup. 12. Peeling Your Vegetables Did you know that some vegetables aren’t meant to be peeled? Sometimes, what you peel off has more nutrients than the veggie itself! For example, the skin of potatoes, pumpkins, carrots, cucumbers, and apples contains a lot of vitamins and minerals. Moreover, peels contain a lot of fiber, which works wonders for your digestive system. You wouldn’t want to throw that in the trash! Healthy Eating Essentials If you have doubts that healthy food can be delicious, we’ll change your mind before this 28-day challenge is over. If you consider yourself an average cook who often struggles in the kitchen, get ready for your new title: an educated cook! If you feel lost when looking for a healthy meal on a restaurant’s menu... okay, okay, enough of the “ifs.” Read this section thoroughly and see your knowledge gaps disappear. It’s as simple as that. be destroyed when heated above their smoke points, so it’s best to use them to add flavor or for drizzling over prepared food. Use sunflower oil for sautéing, frying, and roasting instead. 13. Not Washing Vegetables Thoroughly Before your favorite fruits and veggies reach your table, they are sprayed with dangerous pesticides. Even if you can’t see that layer, it doesn’t mean you shouldn’t be cautious. Make it a rule to wash your veggies and fruits thoroughly in a tub of warm water and add a pinch of soda to remove almost all traces of pesticides. 10. Adding Uncooked Salt Over Your Food 14. Using Butter to Add Flavor Some of us have a habit of sprinkling salt over our food in order to alter the taste of a bland dish. Consuming uncooked salt has been linked to heart disease and kidney problems, so if you are one of those people, it’s time to break this unhealthy habit. 11. Overcooking Vegetables We hate to break this to you, but if you want to keep your waistline slim and your heart healthy, you’ll have to say no to butter. It might make your dishes taste 10 times better, but it can also impede the productivity of your circulatory system and add a few unwanted pounds in the long run. When you’re cooking vegetables, make sure that they’re still firm and lightly crisp. Boiling them until they 58 Food Preparation guarantees a successful tomorrow When you’re hungry, the last thing on your mind is preparing healthy meals. You want to eat something NOW – to kill your cravings and finally relax. Then, the next thing you know, you’re ordering pizza and grabbing a chocolate bar to munch on while you wait. That’s totally understandable – your body needs energy. However, if you’re planning on fitting into those skinny jeans, food preparation is the only thing that will help you avoid situations like these. When healthy foods are ready and available, you will be much more likely to eat those foods instead of ordering out or stopping at the store for a “quick snack.” preparation guide CHOOSE THE RIGHT INGREDIENTS You can prep any food that holds up well in storage. If it tastes good after a few days in the refrigerator, it’s good to go. Cooked meat, soups, roasted vegetables, sauces, nuts, and stiff raw vegetables all make good bases for meal-prep recipes. Try to avoid adding soft vegetables, cut fruit, or crunchy food like crackers, as these ingredients will only get softer if you store them in your refrigerator. USE STORAGE CONTAINERS Don’t worry, we’re not asking you to spend your hardearned money on fancy storage containers. Getting a set of two matching lunch boxes will do just fine. A few small containers for dressings and dips would be a nice addition, but that’s absolutely up to you. Keep in mind that reusable plastics and plastic bags are never recommended for packing meal-prep foods. Aside from carcinogenic BPA, even non-BPA plastics can contain estrogenic chemicals that transfer into your food and mess with your hormones. Glassware would be the safest solution of all, as long as you plan on enjoying your meal cold and can handle it carefully. However, if you plan on taking prepped food to work, you might want to get thermal, stainless steel containers that would keep your meals hot. KEEP IT SIMPLE Don’t ruin your first encounter with meal prep by choosing the most difficult recipe on the menu. It will only make you feel overwhelmed! As a beginner, you should stick to simple meals and just focus on forming a new habit. Use recipes you can depend on. Now is not the time to try something crazy! Once you get a hold of it, you’ll feel encouraged to try something new. 59 Meal prep takes time. Check your schedule, mark your calendar, and do everything you need to leave enough spare time for meal prep. You already know why it’s important to have your meals ready, but there’s no meal prep without prep time! Your Meal Preparation Guide Your Meal To help you out, we have prepared a few tips that will make your meal planning easy, safe, and quick. SCHEDULE IT! If you’re new at this, remember to think about how you’ll reheat your prepped food. Will you only have access to a microwave at mealtime, or can you use a stovetop or oven? Consider recipes that you can either enjoy cold or gently reheat, so you don’t risk having damaging fats and proteins in your food. FOOD SAFETY When you cook and store your meals, they may ferment just long enough to cause a negative reaction. This means that it could release histamines as a byproduct of the fermentation process. If you are particularly sensitive to these compounds, your leftovers could cause brain fog and fatigue. However, since everyone’s histamine tolerance is different, it shouldn’t stop you from enjoying the benefits of meal prep. Simply try to avoid highhistamine foods when you cook and consider meal prepping for a shorter time frame. Most meals can last for up to 5 days in the fridge, and you can always prep single ingredients instead of full meals. If you want to meal prep for the whole week, you should schedule twice a week to do so. The safety of your meal prep depends a lot on your refrigerator, how you packed your meal, and the quality of your ingredients. To avoid cross-contamination, it’s best to use divided containers and separate wet food from dry food. 60 PLAN YOUR MEALS You’re planning on strictly following our diet plan, right? So, to avoid over-shopping or buying unhealthy items at the grocery store, always create a shopping list that will give you a clear direction. When you have an idea of the foods you’ll be cooking and the meals you intend to eat this week, creating a list should be easy. NUTS AND NUT BUTTERS: A small handful of nuts is a great choice for a healthy snack. CANNED BEANS: A great source of protein and carbohydrates, canned beans go well with salads and soups. Your Grocery shopping guide Grocery shopping on an empty stomach is never a good idea. You’ll be craving instantaneous satisfaction and will likely make purchases you’ll regret later on. If you want to lose weight, you shouldn’t be anywhere near processed packaged foods that can be opened and eaten right away. READ THE LABELS Always read the labels on the food you are purchasing. The rule is, if you can’t pronounce the names of the ingredients or the list is too long, you shouldn’t buy the product. This trick will save you time and money and will improve your health. There are lots of sneaky preservatives and refined sugars hidden in our everyday foods, so unless we flip over those shiny packages and read the labels, we’ll never know if we’re eating what’s good for us. DRIED MANGOES: Dried mangoes have limited calories and make for a super tasty snack. GUACAMOLE OR HUMMUS: Veggies with a dip are always delicious, healthy snacks. POPCORN KERNELS: Popcorn is a great, healthy alternative if you are trying to kick the habit of eating potato chips during movie nights. FRESH VEGGIES AND FRUITS: This one goes without saying, but ALWAYS remember to buy enough fresh veggies and fruits. ALWAYS LOOK AT YOUR CART We discuss the importance of food colors in the chapter “Food Colors.” Make sure you read it thoroughly and apply the rules to grocery shopping. When you’re buying food, take a look at your cart. Do you have enough colorful veggies and fruits? At a minimum, there should be at least 5 different colors. MUST-HAVE PRODUCTS Before getting ready for your first trip to the grocery store, take a piece of paper and make a list of these must-have products. You should restock your cabinets with healthy dry products every few weeks and always have fresh veggies and fruits on hand. 61 GRANOLA (LOW IN SUGAR): What can be better than a delicious bowl of granola in the morning? Your Grocery Shopping Guide 28 days: perfect body’s DNA EAT BEFORE YOU GO GRAINS AND LEGUMES: Grains and legumes are great sources of fiber, nutrients, vitamins, and minerals. SEEDS (flax, chia, pumpkin, hemp, sesame, sunflower, etc.): These are all great sources of fiber. They also contain healthy monounsaturated fats, polyunsaturated fats, and many important vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants. 62 Eating Out Tips Have a light, nutritious snack an hour before your meal to avoid eating too much at the restaurant. If possible, choose a restaurant that offers a wide selection of foods. Make sure they have plenty of fresh, low-fat options you can choose from. Order items that include wholegrain foods in order to get fiber into your diet. Order dressings and sauces on the side and not on the food. You can’t avoid eating out, but you can avoid ordering the wrong meal! If you follow these simple rules and make smart, careful decisions, you should be able to stick to your diet no matter where you go. 1 If you feel hungry, eat a healthy snack. 2 Choose healthier condiments. Say no to mayonnaise and go for mustard. Use pepper or lemon juice to replace salt. Finish your main dish before ordering something else. By the time you’re done, it will be easier to say no to dessert. And, if you do order dessert, be generous and split it with a friend or take half of it home. Finish only half of your plate and ask for a carryout bag. You’ll avoid overeating and end up with two meals for the price of one! If you feel hungry, eat a snack that is high in protein and fiber. It will keep you feeling full for longer. 3 Plan your meals in advance or prep them the night before (see the chapter, “Your Meal Preparation Guide”). If you skip a meal, your blood sugar decreases, which causes interruption in your ability to think straight. Your brain needs glucose to run efficiently and if it’s not getting enough of it, your body naturally refuses to do its best. You start to feel irritable, fatigued, and confused. Then, the production of cortisol increases, which leaves you feeling even more stressed and hungry. The worst part is that skipping meals interrupts your regular eating patterns and slows down your metabolism. This process can easily cause weight gain and complicate your weight loss journey. That’s the last thing you want, right? Skipping a Meal How to order quality food anywhere Skipping a Meal TO AVOID THESE SITUATIONS, STICK TO THESE FIVE SIMPLE RULES: 4 If you’re having a super busy day, set an alarm to ring at lunchtime. 5 Make plans with your friends and family or ask someone out on a lunch date. Order water or sparkling water with a twist of lemon; it’s healthy, filling, and has no calories. However, if you’ve already skipped a meal (for example, lunch), don’t stress about it too much. Just eat your lunch instead of an evening snack and don’t try to compensate for it with more food. Get back on track and do your best tomorrow. Obviously, it’s best not to skip any meals that are in your program. 63 64 colors 65 In order to take full advantage of those nutrients, you must eat a broad variety of colorful fruits and veggies. Aim to include at least three different colors in each meal: ideally some green foods plus two other colors. This rule goes hand in hand with the recommendation to add two different veggies (or fruits) to your meal. Food Colors Food The color of your food says a lot about its nutritional value. It’s a known fact that plants derive their colors from the phytochemicals they contain, which are used as nutrients to stay healthy. Following these guidelines will ensure you get a balanced diet and provide your body with all the vitamins and nutrients it needs. In this chapter, we will discuss the benefits of each color so that you can plan your meals accordingly. 66 PURPLE AND BLUE ORANGE AND YELLOW Red foods are loaded with the phytonutrient lycopene, which gives them their vibrant, natural pigment. Research shows that lycopene helps to prevent cancer, heart disease, cataracts, and asthma, and it eliminates free radicals that damage genes. Anthocyanins are the key nutrient in all darker-toned foods. Not only do they create a rich, beautiful color, but they are also the key reason why foods like blueberries are so full of antioxidants. The carotenoids in orange or yellow fruits and veggies help your body protect cells, organs, and tissue and repair muscles. Such protection has been known to prevent the development of diseases, such as stomach cancer and cardiovascular disease, lower blood pressure, promote collagen formation, boost your immune system as well as aid in liver cleansing, digestion, and eye health. The healthiest red foods are: tomatoes, red peppers, red cabbage, red onions, red apples, strawberries, raspberries, cherries, beets, watermelons, pomegranates, and pink grapefruit. Red berries are loaded with vitamins C and A, so you should definitely include them in your diet. Blue and purple foods are also rich in lutein, vitamin C, and zeaxanthin, all of which help to support healthy digestion, boost your immune system, improve your memory, reduce the risk of cardiovascular disease, promote healthy aging, fight cancer, and support both brain and bone health. The healthiest orange and yellow foods are: oranges, orange peppers, mangoes, cantaloupes, butternut squash, carrots, sweet potatoes, papaya, and pumpkins. The healthiest purple foods are: purple cabbage, eggplants, grapes, purple potatoes, plums, raisins, blackberries, blueberries, and prunes. 67 Food Colors RED Most importantly, carotenoids can’t be synthesized by humans. So if you want to enjoy glowing skin, healthy hair, and strong bones and teeth, you must eat these delicious fruits and veggies! 68 GREEN BROWN AND WHITE Most green veggies store an incredible amount of antioxidants and vitamins. White fruits and vegetables like bananas and potatoes are a valuable source of potassium, which reduces blood pressure, maintains heart and kidney health, and aids with stress and anxiety levels. If you’re already a fan of dark, leafy greens, you’re in luck. These vegetables contain a large amount of water and are significantly low in calories. Once in a while, you should also eat some coconut and add garlic to your meals. Allicin is a phytochemical found in garlic, which is known for its antibacterial properties, and coconut is a healthy source of fat, protein, and minerals. It helps to decrease levels of cholesterol and reduce the likelihood of heart disease. Food Colors Just like yellow and orange foods, green foods contain a range of phytochemicals which help fight cancerous cells. What’s more, in addition to important nutrients like iron and zinc, they’re also packed with a variety of vitamins – A, C, E, and K. All these vitamins are essential to our immune system and metabolism. The healthiest white and brown foods are: The healthiest green foods are: spinach, broccoli, asparagus, collard greens, bok choy, kale, arugula, kiwis, Brussels sprouts, artichokes, honeydew melons, limes, and celery. 69 garlic, onions, cauliflower, mushrooms, bananas, jicama, pears, and daikon radish. 70 Superfoods Many people have heard (or read) about superfoods, but most still don’t know a whole lot about them. What makes a superfood “super”? Do its unique phytochemicals, higher nutrient density, and researchsupported health benefits do anything for weight loss? Broccoli also contains a very special and unique antioxidant called sulforaphane. Research on the compound has shown anti-obesity effects, meaning that eating this superfood may help natural weight loss in the long run. Watercress To answer the second question: absolutely. Superfoods (and especially diets with lots of them) can make all the difference in reaching a healthy weight and should even be considered foundational to diet goals. Superfoods are an elegant and easy solution to complicated dieting. Superfoods But this is only part of what makes them so “super.” For one, eating tons of superfoods (whether you’re dieting or not) helps cut out a lot of guesswork. In some ways, eating superfoods in reasonable amounts (and often) is just as comparable to eating HUGE amounts of typical healthy foods. Broccoli may be a more common superfood to come by, but there’s also a lot to love about watercress, an aquatic green with a unique nutrient profile. One reason it’s considered a superfood is that it has lots of iodine, a mineral we all need. Iodine is especially important for healthy thyroid function, which in turn controls weight and metabolism. Research shows it may help prevent obesity, too. Other Superfood Greens: Kale Wheatgrass Though they won’t work like “magic bullets” for weight loss, superfoods (like the following categories) are great ingredients in any recipe for a healthy diet. There are far more superfoods besides these, so feel free to find and explore more of your own. Spinach Spirulina SUPERFOOD GREENS SUPERFOOD NUTS & SEEDS When it comes to superfoods, greens almost always come to mind first. In many ways, too, they tend to top the list. Dark, leafy greens contain tons of nutrients, vitamins, minerals, phenols, antioxidants, and fiber. Next comes nuts and seeds, the true powerhouses of the plant food world. These can’t be overlooked easily; though small, they come packed with the healthy plant proteins, amino acids, healthy fats, and unique minerals we all need. Broccoli Chia Seeds Broccoli is one of the healthiest greens on the planet. A common find at grocery stores, it surprises some to learn that the vegetable is positively teeming with antioxidants, which support a healthier weight and metabolism. 71 Chia seeds are high in omega-3 fatty acids, the healthiest type of fat. People with weight goals are wise to get plenty of these fats into their diet. Luckily, chia contains tons of them. 72 Place these seeds in water and they develop a jelly-like covering. This jelly contains all those good fats while also making for an excellent superfood beverage or snack. Other Superfood Nuts & Seeds: Flaxseeds SUPERFOOD POWDERS Need an easy and uncomplicated superfood boost? Pre-made powders may be the answer, which are dehydrated extracts and preparations of your favorite superfoods. Powders make it easy to get those superfoods into any diet. Just put them on your meals as seasoning or sneak them into smoothies! Sacha inchi peanuts Blueberry Powder Brazil nuts Blueberries are probably the most popular superfood. All dark berries (like raspberries, blackberries, and pomegranates) are high in nutrients and antioxidants. Pumpkin seeds Though going gluten-free is a growing trend that excludes most grains, that’s not to say that there are no superfood grains. Their healthy complex carbohydrates, lack of gluten, plentiful vitamins, and tons of fiber make them an essential food. Quinoa Some call quinoa the “grain of the century.” Andean cultures have eaten it for much longer than the rest of the world and for very good reasons, including optimal health and wellness. Quinoa has qualities that make it more like a superfood than any other grain. It’s rich in healthy plant proteins, antioxidants, and even amino acids that help support a healthy metabolism. Let’s not forget that it also contains fiber, which is an important nutrient to maintain a healthy weight. But blueberries may have them all beat. It’s the compounds called anthocyanins in blueberries that make them dark blue, but these compounds are also what may help weight loss. Some studies even show that extracts of blueberries can reduce obesity. Mushroom Powder Didn’t think mushrooms could be superfoods? Think again. It’s popular to eat dehydrated and powdered mushrooms as a superfood recently, usually by using them as a spice or seasoning in meals. Mushroom powders contain one or many different types of mushrooms. The most popular kinds of superfood mushrooms are shiitake, lion’s mane, reishi, and cordyceps. Each have beneficial effects on metabolism and weight because they are high in antioxidants and other healthy compounds. Your 28-Day Your 28-Day Meal Plan SUPERFOOD GRAINS meal plan Other Popular Superfood Powders: Turmeric (or curcumin) powder Other Superfood Grains: Acai powder Amaranth Goji berry powder Buckwheat Beet powder Farro Freekeh 73 74 WHAT’S IT ALL ABOUT? Let’s get something straight: we don’t want you to suffer. You finally have the courage to change your deep-rooted eating habits, and we’re here to help you out. There’s no need to make this more complicated than it has to be. Forget about tiring recipes, fancy ingredients, and long shopping lists. You’ll have lots of freedom here. your snacks into one meal. You won’t have to stick to complicated preparation directions or strict recipes. Instead, you will have the freedom of choosing your desired ingredients and the preparation method. We’ll even give you different ingredient options that can be changed according to your preferences. One day you might want to eat pasta and switch to veggies the next day. Well, that’s totally fine. Your plan is completely based on your calorie needs and nutrition, so whichever option you choose, you will always stay on the right track. By the way, we highly recommend consuming all your meals during the first 12 hours of the day and leaving the rest of the 12 for rest and sleep. YOUR PERSONALIZED DIET CONTAINS OF THE FOLLOWING CALORIES: YOUR DAILY WATER CONSUMPTION SHOULD BE: DAILY CALORIE INTAKE (KCAL) Carbohydrates (%) x8 75 45%±5% Protein (%) 30±5% Fat (%) 25±5% Feel free to replace ingredients with substitution options. You will see arrows that indicate your options. + If the arrow looks like this, , that means you can change one ingredient to another one. This plus, + , indicates the ingredients you need to use to prepare the whole meal. BROCCOLI, CHOPPED 1 cup RICE NOODLES, DRY 2 oz/55g The weights of the ingredients listed in the book are for raw or uncooked food. What makes this method unique? Well, lucky for you, we’ve already calculated all your nutrition data according to your daily nutrition and calorie intake. All of these meals were created by professional nutritionists, so you have absolutely nothing to worry about. Just choose what you like and create a meal that tastes good, keeps you healthy, and contains your daily calorie and nutritional intake. The best part is that all ingredients are budget-friendly and you can find them in every store. + BROWN RICE, DRY 2.5 oz/71g CAULIFLOWER, CHOPPED 1 cup DAILY CALORIE INTAKE SPLIT PER MEALS MEAL 8 ounces 240 ml 1700-1850 Your daily meal plan includes various meal type options, ingredients, and preparation suggestions. This allows you to create hundreds of delicious recipes. CALORIES Breakfast 425 kcal - 465 kcal Snack 1 170 kcal - 185 kcal Lunch 510 kcal - 555 kcal Snack 2 170 kcal - 185 kcal Dinner 425 kcal - 465 kcal While following your meal plan, you are allowed to drink two cups of black, unsweetened coffee during the day. If desired, you can also add a splash of skimmed or plant-based milk and always drink an additional glass of water after your beverage. Green or black tea should be limited to four cups per day. Check the exact weights IN THE CONVERSION CHART AT THE BACK OF OUR BOOK. That’s it! You’re all set to make your own, delicious meals like a pro. Good luck! 76 Your 28-Day Meal Plan Your 28-day meal plan contains 5 meals for each day: breakfast, a morning snack, lunch, an evening snack, and dinner. Depending on the length of the day, you can decrease the number of meals to 4 by simply combining FOR EXAMPLE: CHICKEN BREAST TURKEY BREAST + + + + LETTUCE SUN-DRIED TOMATO ICEBERG LETTUCE + + BANANA KIDNEY BEANS CUCUMBER TOMATO = + = = SUNFLOWER SEED BUTTER BANANA GUACAMOLE TORTILLA WRAP SALAD SUNFLOWER SEED BUTTER + DINNER SALADS WHOLE GRAIN TORTILLA LUNCH TORTILLA WRAPS WHOLE GRAIN BREAD + EVENING SNACK BLUEBERRIES BREAKFAST SWEET SANDWICH MORNING SNACK Here’s an example of how you could combine separate ingredients and turn them into a full meal. Keep in mind that this is just an example! Your meal plan will consist of ingredient variations that can be easily combined to make a delicious meal. + Your 28-Day Meal Plan 28 days: perfect body’s DNA Your Typical Day SWEET POTATO FRIES 77 78 Oh, and One More Thing… 6. THEY LOWER BLOOD PRESSURE Eating flax seeds daily for more than three months can lower blood pressure by 2 mmHg. 7. THEY’RE A GREAT SOURCE OF PLANT-BASED PROTEIN Flax seed protein helps to improve immune function, lowers cholesterol, prevents tumors, and has anti-fungal properties. 8. THEY HELP TO CONTROL BLOOD SUGAR Adding flax seeds to your daily diet for at least one month can reduce blood sugar levels by 8-20%. These small, brown, tan, or goldencolored seeds have been praised for centuries and are now called the “super food of today.” THE BENEFITS OF FLAX SEEDS 9. THEY MAKE YOUR SKIN AND HAIR HEALTHY 1. THEY’RE LOADED WITH NUTRIENTS A typical serving size (1-2 tsp) provides a good amount of protein, fiber, Omega-3 fatty acids, vitamins, and minerals. 2. THEY’RE A RICH SOURCE OF ALPHA-LINOLENIC ACID (ALA) 10. THEY SUPPORT DIGESTIVE HEALTH The fiber found in flax seeds provides food for friendly bacteria in your colon that can help cleanse waste from your system and maintain normal bowel movements. ALA is one of the two most important fatty acids that your body can’t produce. It prevents cholesterol from being deposited in the blood vessels of your heart, reduces inflammation in your arteries, and even reduces tumor growth. 3. THEY MAY REDUCE THE RISK OF CANCER So do yourself a favor – prepare a cup of flax seeds every morning and drink it before breakfast. Flax seeds will make your hair shinier, stronger, and more resistant to damage. The ALA fatty acids will also benefit your skin by reducing dryness, flakiness, and improving symptoms of acne, rosacea, and eczema. Your 28-Day Meal Plan If someone offered you a seed that speeds up the weight loss process, protects your body from various diseases, massively improves your health and makes your hair and skin glow, there’s no chance you wouldn’t take it. So do yourself a favor – prepare a cup of flax seeds every morning and drink it before breakfast. Lignans are plant compounds that have antioxidant and estrogen properties, both of which can help lower the risk of cancer and improve health. Interestingly, flax seeds contain up to 800 times more lignans than other plant foods. 4. THEY’RE RICH IN DIETARY FIBER Fiber helps to regulate blood sugar, lowers cholesterol, prevents constipation, and results in more regular bowel movements. 5. THEY LOWER CHOLESTEROL LEVELS FOLLOW THESE FOUR EASY STEPS TO PREPARE YOUR OWN FLAX SEED WATER: Step 1: Crush or use a coffee mill to ground 2 tbsp of flax seeds. Step 2: Place the flax seeds in warm water and stir well. Step 3: Leave for 10 minutes to soak. Step 4: Drink it 30 minutes before breakfast every morning. Enjoy! Consuming flax seeds daily for three months can lower the “bad” LDL cholesterol by almost 20% and increase the “good” HDL cholesterol by 12%. 79 80 Your 81 Your Meal Plan meal plan 82 Blend the ingredients Spread the dip over the 1 bread and sprinkle with BREAKFAST day 5 min Morning Sandwich chopped herbs. Season with salt and ground black 30 min 1 hour after waking up SNACK 1 Berry Smoothie (add some water, if too thick). Feel free to 2-4 hours after breakfast use frozen berries. pepper, if desired. Enjoy! + together until smooth Enjoy! + + HUMMUS PARSLEY, FRESH STRAWBERRIES GREEK YOGURT, 4% FAT 4 slices 4.5 tbsp 3 tbsp, chopped 9 medium 1 cup Choose one from the column WHOLE GRAIN BREAD Coat vegetables in oil + + SNACK 2 and your favorite Vegetable Fries oven at 190°C/380°F spices. Bake in the for about 20 minutes. MULTIGRAIN BREAD GUACAMOLE SCALLIONS, FRESH 3 slices 4.5 tbsp 3 tbsp, chopped + 83 + 2-4 hours after lunch + SOURDOUGH BREAD CREAM CHEESE, 34% FAT CILANTRO, FRESH 3 slices 3.5 tbsp 3 tbsp, chopped GREEN BEANS OLIVE OIL 2 cups 2 tsp 84 LUNCH 1 day 20 min Spaghetti / Noodles with Fish 2-4 hours after snack 1 1. Boil spaghetti or noodles according to the package directions. 2. Add the chopped vegetable into + + + + WHOLE GRAIN SPAGHETTI, DRY CATFISH FILLET, RAW CAULIFLOWER CREAM CHEESE, 15% FAT OLIVE OIL 2/3 cups 4.5oz/130g 2 cups, chopped 2.5 tbsp 1 tsp the pan with oil. Fry for 5-10 minutes, then add fish fillet and fry for 5-7 minutes until crisp. Season with some herbs of your choice. Choose one from the column 3. Flip the fillet, lower the heat, and cook for 2 minutes more, then drizzle with some lemon juice (optional). + 4. Add the cheese onto the + + + spaghetti/noodles and stir. Then add the fish fillet, cooked vegetable, and stir everything. Serve and enjoy! Suggested seasoning: lemon juice (1 tbsp), green onion (1 tbsp, chopped), WHOLE GRAIN LINGUINE PASTA, TUNA FILLET, RAW BROCCOLI CREAM CHEESE, 34% FAT CANOLA OIL DRY 3.5oz/100g 2 cups, chopped 1.5 tbsp 1 tsp 2/3 cups salt (a pinch), ground black pepper (a pinch). + 85 + + + SOBA NOODLES, DRY TILAPIA FILLET, RAW BRUSSELS SPROUTS RICOTTA CHEESE VEGETABLE OIL 2/3 cups 3.5oz/100g 1 cup, chopped 3 tbsp 1 tsp 86 DINNER 1 day 20 min Tortilla Wrap with Cheese 2-4 hours after snack 2, but not later than 3 hours before sleep 1. Spread cream cheese on a warm tortilla/s, leaving a 1”/2.5cm border. Top with leafy greens, chopped + + + + CORN TORTILLA ARUGULA LEAVES CREAM CHEESE, 15% FAT CHERRY TOMATO PARMESAN CHEESE 4 medium handfuls 3.5 tbsp 12 medium 4 tbsp, grated vegetables, some basil leaves (optional), and cheese. 2. Roll the wrap tightly, tucking ends. Slice in half and serve. Enjoy! Choose one from the column Suggested seasoning: few basil leaves. + + + + WHOLE GRAIN TORTILLA SPINACH CREAM CHEESE, 34% FAT TOMATO MOZZARELLA CHEESE, WHOLE- 3 medium handfuls 2 tbsp 2 medium MILK 4 tbsp, grated + + + + TORTILLA, LOW-CARB SPRING MIX SALAD CREAM CHEESE, 27% FAT, RED BELL PEPPER FETA CHEESE 3 medium handfuls LACTOSE-FREE 1 large 3.5 tbsp, crumbled 2.5 tbsp 87 88 Blend yogurt with Remove inedible parts of the 2 day BREAKFAST 5 min Berry Smoothie fruits. Blend all the ingredients, add half cup of water and your smoothie is 30 min 1 hour after waking up berries until smooth SNACK 1 Smoothie Bowl Top with granola. 2-4 hours after breakfast Enjoy! ready! + and place into a bowl. + + STRAWBERRIES APPLE 3 tbsp 1.5 cups, sliced 2 large GRANOLA, WITHOUT ADDED STRAWBERRIES GREEK YOGURT, 4% FAT SUGAR 1/3 cups 1/2 cups Choose one from the column PUMPKIN SEEDS + 1.5 tbsp Coat veggies in oil, + + SNACK 2 and bake in the oven Vegetable Snack min. Sprinkle with at 200°C/400°F for 20 cheese. CHIA SEEDS RASPBERRIES KIWI FRUIT 2 tbsp 1.5 cups 5 small + 89 + + HEMP SEEDS BLUEBERRIES MANGO 2.5 tbsp 3/4 cups 1 medium 2-4 hours after lunch + PARMESAN CHEESE, GRATED CAULIFLOWER OLIVE OIL 3 tbsp 7.5oz/210g 1 tsp 90 LUNCH 2 day 20 min Grain Bowl 2-4 hours after snack 1 1. Cook the grain according to the package instructions. 2. Preheat the oven to 425°F/220°C. + + + + CHICKEN BREAST, RAW CAULIFLOWER ZUCCHINI BASMATI RICE, DRY OLIVE OIL 5oz/140g 4.5oz/130g 1 small 4.5 tbsp 2 tsp 3. Season the poultry with salt and ground black pepper. Add oil and place the poultry and chopped or sliced vegetables in a baking dish. Choose one from the column 4. Bake until poultry is cooked, about 15-20 minutes. 5. Add cooked grain, poultry, and + vegetables on a serving plate. Add + + + your favorite spices and enjoy! Suggested seasoning: salt (a pinch), ground black pepper (a pinch). TURKEY BREAST, RAW BROCCOLI BELL PEPPER WILD RICE, DRY SESAME OIL 5.5oz/150g 3.5oz/100g 1 small 4.5 tbsp 2 tsp + 91 + + + CHICKEN WINGS, RAW CARROT GREEN BEANS LONG-GRAIN RICE, DRY CANOLA OIL 6 wings 2 small 1/3 cups 4.5 tbsp 2 tsp 92 DINNER 2 day 10 min Grilled Tacos / Tortillas 2-4 hours after snack 2, but not later than 3 hours before sleep 1. Cook chosen leafy greens and chopped vegetables in a pan with cooking oil for few minutes, until + + + + ARUGULA LEAVES CABBAGE GUACAMOLE TACO SHELLS, BAKED TUNA FILLET, RAW 1 cup 1 cup, chopped 2 tbsp 2 medium 5.5oz/150g nicely browned and set aside (if the amount of leafy greens and vegetables is too big, make salads from them and serve aside). Choose one from the column 2. Bake the tuna on the grill or in the heated skillet, on each side for a few minutes (if needed). Season with a + pinch of salt, ground black pepper, + + + and your favorite herbs. 3. Warm the taco shells or tortilla for 30 seconds on each side in a dry skillet or on the grill, until hot. 4. Spread warm taco shells/tortilla with SPINACH RED CABBAGE PESTO SAUCE CORN TORTILLA TUNA CHUNKS, CANNED IN BRINE 1 cup 1 cup, chopped 1 tbsp 2 medium 5.5oz/150g the chosen sauce/spread and top with the tuna, cooked leafy greens, and vegetables. Fold it, if needed. 5. Garnish with a lime wedge (optional) and serve warm. Enjoy! Suggested seasoning: lime (1 wedge), + salt (a pinch), ground black pepper (a + + + pinch). 93 KALE SAVOY CABBAGE HUMMUS WHOLE GRAIN TORTILLA TUNA, CANNED, WITHOUT OIL handfuls, chopped 1.5 cups, chopped 2 tbsp 2 medium 5.5oz/150g 94 Slice cucumber and Cook grain according to the 3 day package directions with milk BREAKFAST 10 min Porridge with Fruit (add more milk or boiling water, if needed). Top with 30 min 1 hour after waking up use it as a base. Top SNACK 1 Cucumber Snack cheese and ham. 2-4 hours after breakfast Serve and enjoy! fruit. Enjoy! + cucumber slices with + + + COW'S MILK, 2% FAT APPLE CUCUMBER CHICKEN HAM CREAM CHEESE, 15% FAT 6.5 tbsp 1 cup 1 medium 1 medium 2oz/60g 2 tbsp Choose one from the column WHITE QUINOA, DRY Combine the yogurt + + 95 Yogurt with Side BARLEY, DRY OAT MILK BANANA, RIPE 5.5 tbsp 1 cup 1/2 large + with the other SNACK 2 ingredient and enjoy! + 2-4 hours after lunch + OATS, DRY RICE MILK, UNSWEETENED KIWI FRUIT 3/4 cups 1 cup 2 small GRANOLA, WITHOUT ADDED GREEK YOGURT, 4% FAT SUGAR 2/3 cups 2 tbsp 96 LUNCH 3 day 30 min Chickpea Soup 2-4 hours after snack 1 1. Boil the chosen broth. Add canned or prepared dry chickpeas (for dry chickpeas option - first boil them + according to the package directions). 2. Chop the chosen vegetables and + + + add them into the broth with boiling chickpeas. Add oil and season with a pepper, boil the soup until all the CHICKPEAS, CANNED BROCCOLI FLORETS OLIVE OIL CHICKEN BROTH CARROT 3/4 cans 1 small head 1 tbsp 1 cup 1 large Choose one from the column pinch of salt and ground black ingredients soften (adjust the soup consistency by pouring more broth or boiling water). 3. Puree the soup using a food processor or an immersion blender, until smooth. 4. Serve in a bowl and enjoy! + Suggested seasoning: salt (a pinch), + + + ground black pepper (a pinch). 97 CHICKPEAS, DRY CAULIFLOWER VEGETABLE OIL VEGETABLE BROTH PUMPKIN 5.5 tbsp 2.5 cups, chopped 1 tbsp 1.5 cups 6.5oz/185g 98 DINNER 3 day 20 min Pasta with Meat 2-4 hours after snack 2, but not later than 3 hours before sleep 1. Cook pasta according to the package directions, drain. 2. Meanwhile, cut the vegetables into + + + + BUCKWHEAT PASTA, DRY TERIYAKI SAUCE YELLOW BELL PEPPER GROUND BEEF SIRLOIN, RAW GREEN BEANS 2oz/60g 4 tbsp 1 medium 1.5oz/45g 1 cup bite-size pieces. 3. In a skillet, saute ground meat until cooked. Add the vegetables, season with spices of your choice, and cook 4. Add the cooked pasta, sauce, a pinch of salt, and ground black + pepper to the skillet, cook and stir + + + until heated through. Serve and enjoy! Suggested seasoning: salt (a pinch) and ground black pepper (a pinch). WHOLE GRAIN PASTA, DRY ROASTED RED PEPPER SAUCE WHITE ONION GROUND PORK, RAW MUSHROOMS 2oz/60g 2.5 tbsp 1 small 1.5oz/45g 3/4 cups + 99 + + Choose one from the column until vegetables are tender. + WHOLE GRAIN SPAGHETTI, DRY MARINARA SAUCE BROCCOLI GROUND CHICKEN, RAW GREEN PEAS 2oz/60g 6.5 tbsp 3oz/85g 2oz/60g 3 tbsp 100 Choose your favourite Spread the butter over the 4 day BREAKFAST 5 min Sweet Bagel cut sides of the bagel, and top with the chosen berries. Enjoy! + 30 min 1 hour after waking up and enjoy! SNACK 1 2-4 hours after breakfast Berry Snack + CASHEW BUTTER STRAWBERRIES GREEN GRAPES BLUEBERRIES BLACK GRAPES, SEEDLESS 1 medium 1.5 tbsp 3 large 1.5 cups 2 cups 1.5 cups In a serving bowl + + 101 ingredients and enjoy! Tuna Salad PUMPERNICKEL BAGEL PEANUT BUTTER RASPBERRIES 1 medium 1.5 tbsp 10 medium + combine all SNACK 2 + + WHOLE WHEAT BAGEL ALMOND BUTTER BLACK GRAPES, SEEDLESS 1 medium 1.5 tbsp 6 medium 2-4 hours after lunch Choose one from the column BAGEL, GLUTEN-FREE + KIDNEY BEANS, CANNED BLACK OLIVES TUNA CHUNKS, CANNED IN BRINE 1/2 cups 6 medium 2 tbsp 102 LUNCH 4 day 30 min Stew with Meat 2-4 hours after snack 1 1. Heat the oil in a large pan over medium-high heat. Add grounded or sliced meat, and cook until brown. + + + + BEEF LOIN, LEAN, RAW SUMMER SQUASH RED POTATO, RAW WHITE QUINOA, DRY OLIVE OIL 4oz/110g 2/3 medium 1/2 small 4 tbsp 2 tsp 2. Pour water into the pan (the amount of water should be twice the amount of grain) and add grain. Stir in a bit of rosemary, parsley, salt, ground black and spices. 3. Bring to a boil, then reduce the + heat, cover, and simmer for about 10 + + + minutes. Pour some more water, if needed. 4. Cut vegetables, add them to the pan. Cover and simmer for about 20 minutes. TURKEY BREAST, RAW CARROT POTATO, RAW BASMATI RICE, DRY CANOLA OIL 6oz/170g 1 large 1 small 3.5 tbsp 2 tsp 5. Serve in a bowl. Enjoy! Choose one from the column pepper, or any other desired herbs Suggested seasoning: salt (a pinch), ground black pepper (a pinch), dried rosemary (1/2 tsp), fresh parsley (1/2 tbsp, chopped). + 103 + + + CHICKEN BREAST, RAW CAULIFLOWER NEW POTATO, RAW WILD RICE, DRY VEGETABLE OIL 5.5oz/160g 1/2 small 1 small 3.5 tbsp 2 tsp 104 DINNER 4 day 20 min Warm Lentil Salad 2-4 hours after snack 2, but not later than 3 hours before sleep 1. Cook lentils according to the package directions. 2. Warm a skillet over high heat. Add + + + OLIVE OIL CAULIFLOWER NUTRITIONAL YEAST RED LENTILS, DRY 2 tsp 5.5oz/155g 2.5 tbsp 4.5 tbsp oil. 3. Add cooked lentils to the skillet. Move them through the oil a bit and let them sit there sizzling in the pan. for even cooking. 4. Add a pinch of ground black + pepper and salt to taste. + + 5. Cut vegetables and chop fresh cilantro or any other herbs of your choice. 6. Add the vegetables and chopped herbs to the skillet with lentils, and CANOLA OIL BROCCOLI SESAME SEEDS BLACK LENTILS, DRY 1 tbsp 3.5oz/100g 1.5 tbsp 4 tbsp cook for 5 minutes. Choose one from the column Shake the pan a bit to toss the lentils 7. Sprinkle nutritional yeast or seeds over the lentils. Serve warm. Enjoy! Suggested seasoning: ground black pepper (a pinch), chopped fresh cilantro (1 tbsp), salt (a pinch). 105 + + + VEGETABLE OIL BRUSSELS SPROUTS HEMP SEEDS GREEN LENTILS, DRY 1 tbsp 5 medium, chopped 3.5 tsp 4.5 tbsp 106 Slice the fruit and Cook the egg/s, season with 5 day BREAKFAST 5 min Morning Eggs salt and ground black pepper. Serve with the bread and veggies. Enjoy! + 30 min 1 hour after waking up spread the butter SNACK 1 among the fruit slices Fruit Snack and sprinkle seeds on 2-4 hours after breakfast top. Enjoy! + + + WHOLE GRAIN BREAD CUCUMBER APPLE SEED MIX PEANUT BUTTER 3 small 3 slices 2 medium, sliced 1/2 small 2 tsp 1 tbsp Put the ingredients in + + SNACK 2 a blender and blend Smoothie some water, if too until smooth (add thick). Pour into a QUAIL EGG RICE BREAD RED BELL PEPPER 10 medium 3 slices 1 large, sliced + 107 2-4 hours after lunch Choose one from the column EGG glass and enjoy! + + DUCK EGG MULTIGRAIN BREAD CHERRY TOMATO 2 small 3 slices 1.5 cups, halved GREEK YOGURT, 4% FAT KIWI FRUIT 1 cup 1 small 108 LUNCH 5 day 50 min Stuffed Bell Peppers 2-4 hours after snack 1 1. Prepare the grain according to the package directions. 2. Preheat the oven to 350°F/180°C. + + + + RED BELL PEPPER GROUND CHICKEN BREAST, RAW SCALLIONS, FRESH MOZZARELLA CHEESE, WHITE QUINOA, DRY 3 medium 6.5oz/185g 4 tbsp, chopped SHREDDED 4 tbsp 2.5 tbsp Place a baking paper in a baking pan. 3. Trim the tops of the bell peppers and remove seeds from the inside. Place the bell peppers in the prepared 4. In a large skillet over medium-high heat, cook ground meat and chosen + chopped vegetables until browned. + + + Drain any excess fat or liquids. 5. Remove from the heat and stir in the cooked grain, a pinch of salt, and ground black pepper to taste. 6. Spoon the mixture into the bell GREEN BELL PEPPER GROUND CHICKEN, RAW WHITE ONION PARMESAN CHEESE, GRATED WILD RICE, DRY 3 medium 4oz/110g 4 tbsp, chopped 2.5 tbsp 3.5 tbsp peppers until full. Sprinkle cheese Choose one from the column pan. over the top. 7. Bake in the preheated oven for 30 minutes, until cheese is bubbling and browned. 8. Sprinkle with fresh chopped herbs of your choice. Serve and enjoy! + + + + Suggested seasoning: salt (a pinch), ground black pepper (a pinch), fresh herbs (1 tbsp, chopped). 109 YELLOW BELL PEPPER GROUND TURKEY, RAW RED ONION CHEDDAR CHEESE, GRATED COUSCOUS, DRY 3 medium 3oz/85g 4 tbsp, chopped 2 tbsp 4.5 tbsp 110 DINNER 5 day 30 min Fish Stew with Legumes 2-4 hours after snack 2, but not later than 3 hours before sleep 1. Preheat the oven to 175ºC/350ºF. Season the fish with a pinch of salt and ground black pepper and bake for + + + + COD FILLET, RAW GREEN PEAS, CANNED BROWN RICE, DRY VEGETABLE OIL CARROT 5.5oz/155g 3/4 cups 3 tbsp 2 tsp 1 small about 15-20 minutes. 2. Boil the grain in a pot according to the package directions. After 10 minutes, add chopped vegetables softened. 3. At the end, put sliced baked fish + and legumes in the same pot and + + + cook about 5 minutes more. 4. Serve the stew in a bowl, season with herbs of your choice. Enjoy! Suggested seasoning: salt (a pinch), HADDOCK, RAW KIDNEY BEANS, CANNED WILD RICE, DRY OLIVE OIL GREEN BEANS 5.5oz/155g 1/2 cups 3 tbsp 2 tsp 1.5oz/45g ground black pepper (a pinch), Choose one from the column and boil until all the ingredients are parsley (few leaves). + 111 + + + TILAPIA FILLET, RAW NAVY BEANS, CANNED RED RICE, DRY CANOLA OIL CAULIFLOWER 3oz/85g 7 tbsp 3 tbsp 2 tsp 2oz/55g 112 Cook sliced tofu in a Cook the grain according to 6 day the package directions. In a BREAKFAST 20 min Porridge with Cheese serving bowl combine all ingredients and enjoy! 30 min 1 hour after waking up pan with some water SNACK 1 and desired seasoning Sandwich with Tofu (5-10 minutes). Top 2-4 hours after breakfast the bread with tofu and leafy greens. + + + + FETA CHEESE, FAT-FREE SEED MIX TOFU ARUGULA LEAVES WHOLE GRAIN BREAD 6 tbsp 4.5 tbsp, crumbled 2.5 tbsp 5.5 tbsp handfuls 2 slices, thin Cut the vegetables + + BUCKWHEAT, DRY FETA CHEESE SUNFLOWER SEEDS 6.5 tbsp 2 tbsp, crumbled 2.5 tbsp + 113 SNACK 2 into thin strips and Vegetables with Hummus Enjoy! + serve with hummus. + AMARANTH, DRY PARMESAN CHEESE, GRATED FLAXSEED 5.5 tbsp 2.5 tbsp 2.5 tbsp 2-4 hours after lunch Choose one from the column RED QUINOA, DRY + CUCUMBER BELL PEPPER HUMMUS 1 medium 1 medium 2.5 tbsp 114 LUNCH 6 day 5 min Bagel with Ham 2-4 hours after snack 1 1. Using a sharp knife, slice the bagel in half. Toast the bagel, if desired. 2. Spread the sauce over the cut sides + + + PUMPERNICKEL BAGEL BEET HUMMUS BUTTERHEAD LETTUCE TURKEY FILLET, SMOKED 1 medium 2 tbsp 1 cup, chopped 3oz/85g, sliced of the bagel. 3. Fill the bagel with the remaining ingredients. Enjoy! + WHOLE WHEAT BAGEL HUMMUS ICEBERG LETTUCE TURKEY HAM 1 medium 2 tbsp 1 cup, chopped 2.5oz/70g, sliced + 115 + + Choose one from the column + + OAT BRAN BAGEL HUMMUS ROMAINE LETTUCE CHICKEN HAM 1 medium 1.5 tbsp 1 cup, chopped 2.5oz/70g, sliced 116 DINNER 6 day 10 min Omelette 2-4 hours after snack 2, but not later than 3 hours before sleep 1. Heat a small non-stick frying pan. 2. Meanwhile, beat the egg/eggs with the herbs of your choice, freshly + + + EGG CUCUMBER BLACK OLIVES RICE BREAD 3 small 1 medium 1/2 cups 2 slices ground black pepper, and a pinch of salt in a small bowl. 3. Pour the egg mixture into the pan and stir gently with a wooden spoon the pan moves. Stop stirring when it's nearly cooked to allow it to set into an + omelet. + + 4. Serve with chopped vegetables and bread aside. Enjoy! Suggested seasoning: dried basil/parsley/rosemary (a pinch), QUAIL EGG TOMATO AVOCADO BUCKWHEAT BREAD 9 medium 1 medium 2oz/55g 3 slices, thin ground black pepper (a pinch), salt (a Choose one from the column so the mixture that sets on the base of pinch). + 117 + + DUCK EGG CHERRY TOMATO GREEN OLIVES WHOLE GRAIN BREAD 2 small 3/4 cups, halved 1/3 cups 2 slices 118 Cook sliced Blend ingredients with some 7 day BREAKFAST 5 min Morning Pancakes water, until smooth. Fry spoonfuls of the batter until golden brown on both sides. 30 min 1 hour after waking up mushrooms and SNACK 1 Sautéed Mushrooms oil/butter for 7-15 2-4 hours after breakfast minutes over medium Enjoy! + vegetable with heat. Enjoy! + + + APPLE OAT FLOUR WHITE MUSHROOMS CAULIFLOWER OLIVE OIL 2 medium 1 small 1/2 cups 1.5 cups, chopped 5.5oz/155g, chopped 2 tsp Remove inedible parts + + SNACK 2 of fruit. Blend all Smoothie until smooth. Pour into ingredients together a glass and enjoy! QUAIL EGG BANANA, RIPE WHOLEMEAL FLOUR 9 medium 1 small 2/3 cups + 119 + + DUCK EGG PEAR QUINOA FLOUR 1 medium 1 small 1/2 cups 2-4 hours after lunch Choose one from the column EGG + PEACH PUMPKIN SEEDS OAT MILK 1 small 1 tbsp 2/3 cups 120 LUNCH 7 day 20 min Fish with Vegetables 2-4 hours after snack 1 1. Cook the grain according to the package directions. 2. Meanwhile, mix a pinch of salt, + + + COD FILLET, RAW WHITE QUINOA, DRY GRAPE TOMATO OLIVE OIL 5.5oz/155g 6.5 tbsp 1.5 cups 1 tbsp ground black pepper, and sprinkle over fish. 3. Heat the oil in a medium skillet over medium heat. Add fish fillet and cook 4. Serve with cooked grain and chopped vegetables. Enjoy! + + + Suggested seasoning: salt (a pinch), ground black pepper (a pinch). HADDOCK, RAW WILD RICE, DRY TOMATO CANOLA OIL 5oz/140g 6 tbsp 2 small 1 tbsp + 121 + Choose one from the column for about 3-4 minutes per side. + HAKE, SKINLESS, RAW BROWN RICE, DRY CUCUMBER VEGETABLE OIL 4oz/110g 6 tbsp 1 large 1 tbsp 122 DINNER 7 day 20 min Fried Tofu with Grain 2-4 hours after snack 2, but not later than 3 hours before sleep 1. Prepare grain according to package directions. 2. Slice the chosen tofu into cubes. + + + ORGANIC EXTRA-FIRM TOFU RED QUINOA, DRY SOY SAUCE OLIVE OIL 4oz/110g 7 tbsp 1 tbsp few drops Season with salt and ground black pepper. 3. Heat the oil in a medium frying pan over medium heat. pan-fry until golden. Wait until the tofu releases from the pan before + browning the next side. Continue + + frying until all sides are browned. 5. In a bowl, add cooked grain, prepared tofu, chosen sauce, and enjoy! TOFU AMARANTH, DRY SOY SAUCE, LOW-SODIUM CANOLA OIL 5oz/140g 7 tbsp 1 tbsp few drops Suggested seasoning: salt (a pinch), Choose one from the column 4. Add the tofu in a single layer and ground black pepper (a pinch). + 123 + + ORGANIC TOFU, SMOKED BULGUR, DRY TAMARI COCONUT OIL 2.5oz/70g 1/2 cups 2 tsp 1/2 tsp 124 Cook vegetables with Spread the butter over the 8 day BREAKFAST 5 min Sweet Bagel cut sides of the bagel, and top with the chosen berries. Enjoy! 30 min 1 hour after waking up oil and favorite spices SNACK 1 Vegetable Fries in the preheated oven (200°C/390°F) for 2-4 hours after breakfast about 20 minutes. Enjoy! + + + + CASHEW BUTTER STRAWBERRIES ZUCCHINI OLIVE OIL GREEN BELL PEPPER 1 large 1.5 tbsp 6 medium 1/2 medium 2.5 tsp 1 large Serve berries (feel free + + Berries and Nuts PUMPERNICKEL BAGEL PEANUT BUTTER RASPBERRIES 1 large 1.5 tbsp 1/3 cups + 125 SNACK 2 to use frozen berries) with nuts and enjoy! + 2-4 hours after lunch Choose one from the column WHOLE WHEAT BAGEL + WHOLE GRAIN BAGEL, WHITE ALMOND BUTTER BLUEBERRIES 1 large 1.5 tbsp 4 tbsp STRAWBERRIES ALMONDS 1 cup 10 nuts 126 LUNCH 8 day 30 min Meat Stir-Fry with Seeds 2-4 hours after snack 1 1. Cook the grain according to the package directions. 2. Chop the meat into cubes. + + + + BEEF SHORT LOIN, LEAN, RAW OLIVE OIL YELLOW BELL PEPPER BLACK SESAME SEEDS WILD RICE, DRY 3.5oz/100g 2 tsp 1/2 medium 1 tbsp 5 tbsp 3. Heat the oil in a skillet and fry the meat on high heat for 5 minutes, stirring constantly. Place aside. 4. Peel and chop the garlic, cut the pan. Cook for 2-3 minutes. Add the chopped ginger and cook for 2 more + minutes. + + + 5. Return the meat to the pan, add the cooked grain, tamari sauce, salt, and rice vinegar. Mix well and continue cooking for 2-3 more minutes. 6. Add the grain mix to the serving PORK TENDERLOIN, RAW COCONUT OIL RED BELL PEPPER SESAME SEEDS BULGUR, DRY 3.5oz/100g 2 tsp 1/2 medium 1 tbsp 1/2 cups plate, sprinkle seeds on top, and Choose one from the column bell pepper into strips, and add to the serve. Enjoy! Suggested seasoning: garlic (1 clove), fresh ginger (1 tsp, chopped), tamari sauce (1 tsp), rice vinegar (1 tsp), salt (a pinch). 127 + + + + CHICKEN BREAST, RAW VEGETABLE OIL GREEN BELL PEPPER SEED MIX BROWN RICE, DRY 4.5oz/130g 2 tsp 1/2 medium 1 tbsp 5 tbsp 128 DINNER 8 day 30 min Stuffed Veggie Boats 2-4 hours after snack 2, but not later than 3 hours before sleep 1. Cook the grain according to the package directions, drain. 2. Preheat the oven to 180°C/350°F. + Place a baking paper in a baking pan. 3. Trim the ends of the + + zucchini/summer squash and cut it in half lengthwise. Scoop out the pulp, prepared pan. GROUND CHICKEN BREAST, RAW ZUCCHINI CARROT PEARLED BARLEY, DRY 5oz/140g 1 large 1 medium, grated 4 tbsp 4. Heat oil in a skillet over mediumhigh heat, add ground meat with chosen chopped vegetables, zucchini/summer squash pulp, and cook until browned. 5. Remove from the heat and stir in cooked grains a pinch of ground black + pepper and desired seasoning. 6. Spoon mixture into vegetable boats + + Choose one from the column chop it. Place vegetable boats into a until full. 7. Bake in the preheated oven for about 15 minutes. 8. Sprinkle with fresh chopped herbs GROUND CHICKEN, RAW SUMMER SQUASH BELL PEPPER WHITE QUINOA, DRY 3oz/85g 1 large 1/2 medium, chopped 4 tbsp of your choice, serve and enjoy! Suggested seasoning: ground black pepper (a pinch). 129 130 Put all ingredients Spread the avocado or 9 day BREAKFAST 10 min Toast with Eggs guacamole over sliced bread, top with sliced boiled egg/s, and season with favorite 30 min 1 hour after waking up (feel free to use frozen SNACK 1 berries) in a blender Smoothie and blend until smooth. Pour into a spices. Enjoy! + 2-4 hours after breakfast glass and enjoy! + + + EGG GUACAMOLE, HOME-MADE SPINACH BLUEBERRIES OAT MILK 3 slices 2 medium 4 tbsp 1 cup 1 cup 3/4 cups In a serving bowl + + SNACK 2 combine all Legume Salad with favorite spices, ingredients, season and enjoy! MULTIGRAIN BREAD QUAIL EGG AVOCADO 3 slices 9 medium 4 tbsp, mashed + 131 + + WHOLE GRAIN BREAD TOAST DUCK EGG GUACAMOLE 3 slices 1 medium 4 tbsp 2-4 hours after lunch Choose one from the column WHOLE GRAIN BREAD + KIDNEY BEANS, CANNED SPINACH FETA CHEESE 1/2 cups 1 cup 2.5 tbsp 132 LUNCH 9 day 30 min Poultry with Grain 2-4 hours after snack 1 1. Cook the grain according to the package directions. 2. Chop poultry into small pieces and + + + + CHICKEN BREAST, RAW PUMPKIN KIDNEY BEANS, CANNED WILD RICE, DRY RAPESEED OIL 4oz/110g, ground 4.5oz/130g, cubed 3.5 tbsp 4 tbsp 2 tsp season with minced garlic and desired herbs/spices. 3. Heat the oil in a large pan, add the poultry and cook for 5 minutes, until and add the chopped vegetables. Cook for a further 5 minutes, stirring + occasionally until vegetables have + + + softened. 4. Stir in the drained legumes and some seasoning of your choice, then simmer for a further 10 minutes. 5. Serve with the cooked grain. Enjoy! TURKEY BREAST, RAW CARROT CHICKPEAS, CANNED BASMATI RICE, DRY OLIVE OIL 4oz/110g, ground 1 large, grated 3.5 tbsp 4 tbsp 2 tsp Choose one from the column browned. Push to one side of the pan Suggested seasoning: salt (a pinch), ground black pepper (a pinch), garlic (1 clove), dried parsley/basil/cilantro (a pinch). + 133 + + + DUCK, MEAT AND SKIN, RAW BUTTERNUT SQUASH BLACK BEANS, CANNED LONG-GRAIN RICE, DRY VEGETABLE OIL 2.5oz/70g, ground 2.5oz/70g, cubed 3.5 tbsp 4 tbsp 2 tsp 134 DINNER 9 day 5 min Open Sandwich with Shrimps 2-4 hours after snack 2, but not later than 3 hours before sleep 1. For grilled shrimps option: Grill the shrimps over direct medium heat for 5-7 minutes, flipping the shrimp + + + SHRIMP, BAKED, NO ADDED FAT RADISH WHOLE GRAIN BREAD RICOTTA CHEESE 3oz/85g 6 medium 3 slices 4 tbsp halfway through the process. The outside of the shrimp should turn into a nice pink when the shrimp is properly cooked. shrimp for 2-3 minutes on each side, flipping only once midway. + Depending on the size of your shrimp + + and how many you have in the pan, this will usually take 4 to 6 minutes. For baked shrimps option: Preheat oven to 350°F/175°C. Place shrimp in a baking dish, season with salt and SHRIMP, GRILLED CHERRY TOMATO BREAD, GLUTEN-FREE COTTAGE CHEESE, 4% FAT 3oz/85g 6 medium 3 slices 1/3 cups pepper, toss shrimp then spread into Choose one from the column For cooked shrimps option: Cook the an even layer. Bake in the preheated oven until shrimp are cooked through about 9 - 13 minutes. Serve warm. 2. Layer the chosen cheese on the bread slices. 3. Put prepared shrimps and sliced + vegetable on top. Garnish with some + + herbs and spices if you like and enjoy! Suggested seasoning: salt (a pinch), ground black pepper (a pinch), chopped parsley (1 tbsp). 135 SHRIMP, STEAMED RED BELL PEPPER WHOLE GRAIN BREAD TOAST CREAM CHEESE, 34% FAT 1.5oz/45g 1/2 large 3 slices 2 tbsp 136 Smear the tortilla with Add cheese on the bread 10 day and top the sandwich with BREAKFAST 5 min Sandwich with Cheese and chosen fish. Enjoy! Fish + 30 min 1 hour after waking up nut butter, chopped SNACK 1 Tortilla Wrap fruit and wrap tortilla. Enjoy! + + 2-4 hours after breakfast + LOX, SALTED SALMON RICOTTA CHEESE PEANUT BUTTER WHOLE GRAIN TORTILLA APPLE 3 slices 2.5oz/70g, sliced 4.5 tbsp 2 tsp 1 medium 1 small Choose one from the column WHOLE GRAIN BREAD Combine yogurt with + + 137 Yogurt with Side RICE BREAD SALMON FILLET, SMOKED CREAM CHEESE, 15% FAT 3 slices 3.5oz/100g, sliced 2.5 tbsp + other ingredients. SNACK 2 + Enjoy! + BUCKWHEAT BREAD TUNA, CANNED, WITHOUT OIL MOZZARELLA CHEESE, PART SKIM 3 slices 3oz/85g, crumbled 1.5oz/45g, sliced 2-4 hours after lunch + CASHEW NUTS BLUEBERRIES GREEK YOGURT, 4% FAT 7 nuts 2oz/60g 1/2 cups 138 LUNCH 10 day 20 min Grain Bowl with Fish 2-4 hours after snack 1 1. Preheat the oven to 220°C/425°F. 2. Season the fish with your favorite spices. Place the fish on a nonstick + + + WILD RICE, DRY SALMON STEAK, RAW CAULIFLOWER CUCUMBER 6 tbsp 4oz/110g 4oz/110g, chopped 1/2 medium, sliced baking sheet or in a nonstick pan with an oven-proof handle. 3. Bake until fish is cooked through, about 12 - 15 minutes. the package directions. 5. Steam the vegetables, if desired (to + steam, place in a steamer over boiling + + water and cook for 6-8 minutes). 6. Add cooked grain, fish, and sliced or chopped vegetables to the plate. Sprinkle with chosen spices and enjoy! BULGUR, DRY TILAPIA FILLET, RAW BROCCOLI RED CABBAGE 1/2 cups 6.5oz/185g 2.5oz/70g, chopped 1.5oz/45g, chopped + 139 + Choose one from the column 4. Meanwhile, cook grain according to + BUCKWHEAT, DRY RAINBOW TROUT, RAW BRUSSELS SPROUTS RED BELL PEPPER 1/2 cups 6oz/170g 2.5oz/70g, chopped 1/3 medium, sliced 140 DINNER 10 day 30 min Rice Stir-Fry with Red Meat 2-4 hours after snack 2, but not later than 3 hours before sleep 1. Cook the rice according to the package directions. 2. Cut vegetables into bite-size pieces, + + + + GROUND BEEF SIRLOIN, RAW SOY SAUCE GREEN BEANS, FROZEN OLIVE OIL WILD RICE, DRY 1.5oz/45g 1 tbsp 1 cup 1/2 tbsp 4 tbsp if needed. 3. Pour half of the oil into a large skillet or wok (add more if necessary during cooking). Preheat over medium-high 4. Stir-fry chopped vegetables for 5-10 minutes or until vegetables are crisp- + tender. Remove vegetables from the + + + skillet. 5. Add remaining oil and chopped meat to hot skillet. Stir-fry for 5 minutes or until meat is no longer pink. GROUND PORK, RAW SOY SAUCE, LOW-SODIUM BROCCOLI CANOLA OIL BASMATI RICE, DRY 1.5oz/45g 1 tbsp 4oz/110g, chopped 1/2 tbsp 4 tbsp 6. Return cooked vegetables to skillet Choose one from the column heat. and add the sauce. Season with salt, ground black pepper and favorite spices. Stir all ingredients together to coat. Cook and stir for about a minute or until heated through. 7. Serve the stir-fry in a bowl. Top with + chopped green onions. Enjoy! + + + Suggested seasoning: salt and ground black pepper (to taste), chopped green onions (1 tbsp). 141 BEEF, LEAN, GROUND TAMARI RED BELL PEPPER COCONUT OIL LONG-GRAIN RICE, DRY 1.5oz/45g 1 tbsp 1 large 1/2 tbsp 4 tbsp 142 Spread the nut butter Cook the grain and 11 day BREAKFAST 20 min Porridge with Eggs vegetables in boiling water. Prepare eggs. Place all ingredients in a bowl and 30 min 1 hour after waking up onto the (toasted) SNACK 1 Nut Butter and Fruit Toast bread, top with the sliced fruit and enjoy! 2-4 hours after breakfast season by your choice. + + + + EGG CAULIFLOWER PEACH WHITE WHOLE GRAIN BREAD PEANUT BUTTER 5 tbsp 2 large 7oz/200g, chopped 1 small 1 slice 1/2 tbsp Choose one from the column BARLEY, DRY Mix radishes with oil + + SNACK 2 and cheese, season Roasted Radishes Roast in a preheated with desired herbs. oven (200°C/400°F) COUSCOUS, DRY QUAIL EGG BROCCOLI 6 tbsp 9 medium 4.5oz/130g, chopped + 143 for 20-30 min. Enjoy! + + BUCKWHEAT, DRY DUCK EGG GREEN BEANS 1/2 cups 1 large 1 cup 2-4 hours after lunch + RADISH OLIVE OIL PARMESAN CHEESE, GRATED 14 medium, halved 1 tsp 4 tbsp 144 LUNCH 11 day 20 min Lentil Curry 2-4 hours after snack 1 1. Bring the dry lentils and water (the amount of water should be twice the amount of lentils) to a boil. + + + + RED LENTILS, DRY KIDNEY BEANS, CANNED CHERRY TOMATO OLIVE OIL RICE MILK, UNSWEETENED 1/2 cups 4 tbsp 4 small 1 tsp 1 cup 2. Reduce heat and let simmer for about 10-15 minutes, or until the lentils are softened (and the water is absorbed). 4. Add in the plant-based milk, ground cumin, turmeric, minced garlic clove, + ground ginger, salt, and ground black + + + pepper to taste. 5. While allowing the curry to simmer, add in the chopped tomatoes and canned legumes. 6. Cook for about 7-10 minutes. BLACK LENTILS, DRY CHICKPEAS, CANNED TOMATO CANOLA OIL OAT MILK 6 tbsp 4 tbsp 1/2 medium 1 tsp 1 cup 7. Serve and top with fresh or dried Choose one from the column 3. Add in the oil and stir. basil. Enjoy! Suggested seasoning: ground ginger (1/4 tsp), salt (a pinch), ground black pepper (a pinch), garlic (1 clove, minced), dried basil (1 tsp), cumin + powder (1/2 tbsp), ground turmeric (1 + + + tsp). 145 GREEN LENTILS, DRY NAVY BEANS, CANNED KUMATO TOMATOES COCONUT OIL HAZELNUT MILK 1/2 cups 4 tbsp 1/2 medium 1 tsp 1 cup 146 DINNER 11 day 40 min Meatball Soup 2-4 hours after snack 2, but not later than 3 hours before sleep 1. Mix ground meat, suggested or other seasonings of your choice, in a bowl. Roll into walnut-size meatballs. + + + + BEEF BROTH BEEF, LEAN, GROUND BROWN RICE, DRY CABBAGE YELLOW BELL PEPPER 2 cups 3oz/85g 3 tbsp 2.5oz/70g, chopped 1 small 2. In a large saucepan combine broth, rice, and chopped vegetables. Bring to a boil on high heat. Adjust the soup consistency by pouring more broth or 3. Drop meatballs into the boiling broth, reduce to medium-low heat, + and cook for 30 minutes or until + + + meatballs are cooked through. 4. Serve and enjoy! Suggested seasoning: salt (a pinch), ground black pepper (a pinch), VEGETABLE BROTH GROUND PORK, RAW BASMATI RICE, DRY CARROT RED BELL PEPPER 2 cups 2.5oz/70g 3 tbsp 1 medium, grated 1 small smoked paprika (a pinch), fresh Choose one from the column boiling water. chopped herbs - parsley, dill, basil, coriander, oregano, chives, or other (1 tbsp). + 147 + + + CHICKEN BROTH GROUND BEEF SIRLOIN, RAW LONG-GRAIN RICE, DRY CAULIFLOWER GREEN BELL PEPPER 2 cups 3oz/85g 3 tbsp 3oz/85g, chopped 1 small 148 In a serving bowl Smear the tortilla with nut 12 day butter, add chopped fruit BREAKFAST 5 min Tortilla Wrap with Fruit and wrap tortilla. Enjoy! + 30 min 1 hour after waking up combine all SNACK 1 Legume and Cheese Snack ingredients and enjoy! + + 2-4 hours after breakfast + CASHEW BUTTER APPLE KIDNEY BEANS, CANNED SUNFLOWER SEEDS FETA CHEESE 2 medium 1.5 tbsp 2 medium, sliced 1/2 cups 1 tbsp 1 tbsp, crumbled Wash the fruit/fruits + + SNACK 2 under cold water. Peel Fruits pieces, if needed. and slice into smaller Enjoy! WHOLE GRAIN TORTILLA PEANUT BUTTER BANANA, RIPE 2 small 1.5 tbsp 2 medium, sliced + 149 2-4 hours after lunch Choose one from the column CORN TORTILLA + TORTILLA, LOW-CARB HAZELNUT BUTTER MANGO 2 small 1.5 tbsp 1 small, chopped POMEGRANATE APPLE GRAPEFRUIT 1 small 2 medium 2 medium 150 LUNCH 12 day 50 min Stuffed Bell Peppers 2-4 hours after snack 1 1. Prepare the grain according to the package directions. 2. Preheat the oven to 350°F/180°C. + + + + RED BELL PEPPER GROUND CHICKEN BREAST, RAW MOZZARELLA CHEESE, WHITE QUINOA, DRY WHITE ONION 3 small 6.5oz/180g SHREDDED 4 tbsp 3 tbsp, chopped 2.5 tbsp Place a baking paper in a baking pan. 3. Trim the tops of the bell peppers and remove seeds from the inside. Place the bell peppers in the prepared 4. In a large skillet over medium-high heat, cook ground meat and chosen + chopped vegetables until browned. + + + Drain any excess fat or liquids. 5. Remove from the heat and stir in the cooked grain, a pinch of salt, and ground black pepper to taste. 6. Spoon the mixture into the bell GREEN BELL PEPPER GROUND CHICKEN, RAW PARMESAN CHEESE, GRATED WILD RICE, DRY RED ONION 3 small 4oz/110g 2.5 tbsp 3.5 tbsp 3 tbsp, chopped peppers until full. Sprinkle cheese Choose one from the column pan. over the top. 7. Bake in the preheated oven for 30 minutes, until cheese is bubbling and browned. 8. Sprinkle with fresh chopped herbs of your choice. Serve and enjoy! + + + + Suggested seasoning: salt (a pinch), ground black pepper (a pinch), fresh herbs (1 tbsp, chopped). 151 YELLOW BELL PEPPER GROUND TURKEY, RAW CHEDDAR CHEESE, GRATED COUSCOUS, DRY GARLIC 3 small 3oz/85g 1.5 tbsp 4.5 tbsp 3 cloves, minced 152 DINNER 12 day 20 min Shrimp with Quinoa 2-4 hours after snack 2, but not later than 3 hours before sleep 1. Cook the quinoa according to the package directions, drain. 2. For grilled shrimps option: Grill the + + + + RED QUINOA, DRY SHRIMP, BAKED, NO ADDED FAT GRAPE TOMATO SCALLIONS, FRESH OLIVE OIL 5 tbsp 3oz/85g 1 cup 3 tbsp, chopped 2.5 tsp shrimp over direct medium heat for 5-7 minutes until the shrimp are pink, flipping them halfway through the process. shrimp for 2-3 minutes on each side, depending on the size of the shrimp, + flipping only once midway. + + + For baked shrimps option: Preheat the oven to 175°C/350°F. Place shrimp in a baking dish, season with a pinch of salt and ground black pepper, toss shrimp then spread into an even layer. WHITE QUINOA, DRY SHRIMP, RAW RED BELL PEPPER RED ONION VEGETABLE OIL 5 tbsp 3oz/85g 1 small 2.5 tbsp, chopped 2.5 tsp Bake in the preheated oven until Choose one from the column For cooked shrimps option: Cook the shrimp are cooked through about 9 13 minutes. Serve warm. 3. In a large skillet or wok, saute garlic (optional) in oil for 1 minute. Add the sliced vegetables, stir-fry for 5 minutes, or until the vegetables are + tender. Serve with the cooked shrimp + + + and quinoa, garnish with lemon juice (optional). Enjoy! Suggested seasoning: lemon juice (1 tbsp), garlic (1 clove, minced), salt (a RAINBOW QUINOA, DRY SHRIMP, GRILLED MUSHROOMS GREEN ONION RAPESEED OIL 5 tbsp 3oz/85g 7 medium 3 tbsp, chopped 2.5 tsp pinch), ground black pepper (a pinch). 153 154 Remove inedible parts Spread dip on the bread. 13 day BREAKFAST 5 min Sandwich with Seeds Sprinkle seeds on the top and season with favorite spices and herbs. Enjoy! 30 min 1 hour after waking up from the fruits, blend SNACK 1 Fruit Smoothie all ingredients together and your 2-4 hours after breakfast smoothie is ready. Enjoy! + + + + PUMPKIN SEEDS MULTIGRAIN BREAD BANANA, FROZEN ORANGE OAT MILK 2 tbsp 2.5 tbsp 3 slices 1/2 medium 1 small 3/4 cups Bake vegetables with + + SNACK 2 oil and favorite spices Vegetable Fries 200°C/390°F for 30 in the oven at min. Serve with the HUMMUS HEMP SEEDS WHOLE GRAIN BREAD 2 tbsp 2 tbsp 3 slices + 155 dip. + + GUACAMOLE SESAME SEEDS SOURDOUGH BREAD 2 tbsp 2.5 tbsp 3 slices 2-4 hours after lunch Choose one from the column BEET HUMMUS + CARROT OLIVE OIL HUMMUS 2 medium 1/2 tsp 1/2 tbsp 156 LUNCH 13 day 30 min Red Meat with Grain 2-4 hours after snack 1 1. Chop the chosen meat into small pieces. 2. Heat the oil in a medium pan, add + + + BEEF LOIN, LEAN, RAW CANOLA OIL WHITE QUINOA, DRY BABY SPINACH 3oz/85g 1 tbsp 6.5 tbsp 1.5 cups the meat and cook until lightly browned on all sides (for 8-10 minutes). Remove to a bowl, cover, and set aside. (optional), salt, ground black pepper, cinnamon, chili flakes (optional), + ginger, turmeric, stir everything + + together, and cook for 2 minutes, adding a splash of water, if needed. 4. Add grain and water (the amount of water should be twice the amount of grain) and bring to a boil. Cover the LAMB, LEAN, RAW OLIVE OIL BUCKWHEAT, DRY SPINACH 2.5oz/70g 1 tbsp 7 tbsp 1 cup pan, reduce the heat to low, and cook Choose one from the column 3. In the same pan add the garlic for 15–20 minutes, stirring occasionally. Pour more water, if needed. 5. Add the leafy greens and stir until wilted, then add the meat back to the pan. Stir well. + 6. Serve in a bowl. Enjoy! + + Suggested seasoning: garlic (1-2 cloves, minced), salt (a pinch), ground black pepper (a pinch), cinnamon (a pinch), chili flakes (a pinch), ground VEAL CHOP, LEAN, RAW COCONUT OIL BROWN RICE, DRY KALE 3oz/85g 1 tbsp 5.5 tbsp 1 cup, chopped ginger (a pinch), turmeric (a pinch). 157 158 DINNER 13 day 20 min Poultry with Rice 2-4 hours after snack 2, but not later than 3 hours before sleep 1. Cook the rice according to the package directions. 2. Heat the oil in a skillet over medium + + + + CHICKEN BREAST, RAW WILD RICE, DRY TERIYAKI SAUCE RADISH OLIVE OIL 3.5oz/100g 4.5 tbsp 1 tbsp 3 medium 2 tsp heat. Add the chopped poultry, season with desired spices, and let it fry until done (about 14-17 minutes). 3. To a serving plate, add the cooked Serve with chopped vegetables and enjoy! + + + TURKEY BREAST, RAW BLACK RICE, DRY TAMARI CHERRY TOMATO CANOLA OIL 4oz/110g 4.5 tbsp 1 tbsp 3 medium 2 tsp + 159 + + + Choose one from the column rice, prepared poultry, and sauce. + DUCK, MEAT AND SKIN, RAW BROWN RICE, DRY SRIRACHA RED BELL PEPPER VEGETABLE OIL 2oz/60g 4.5 tbsp 2 tsp 1/3 medium 2 tsp 160 Sauté chopped Prepare egg/s. Spread dip 14 day BREAKFAST 5 min Egg Sandwich onto the bread slices, top with the egg/s and spices of your choice. Enjoy! 30 min 1 hour after waking up vegetable in oil. Add SNACK 1 Tofu Scramble crumbled tofu with favorite seasoning. 2-4 hours after breakfast Scramble for 10 - 15 minutes. Enjoy! + + + + EGG BEET HUMMUS ZUCCHINI TOFU OLIVE OIL 3 slices 2 large 2 tbsp 1/2 medium, chopped 5oz/140g, cubed 1 tsp Choose one from the column BREAD, GLUTEN-FREE Combine yogurt with + + 161 Yogurt with Side WHOLE GRAIN BREAD QUAIL EGG GUACAMOLE 3 slices 9 medium 1.5 tbsp + other ingredients. SNACK 2 + Enjoy! + RYE BREAD DUCK EGG HUMMUS 3 slices 1 large 1.5 tbsp 2-4 hours after lunch + STRAWBERRIES ALMONDS GREEK YOGURT, 4% FAT 9 medium, sliced 8 nuts 1/2 cups 162 LUNCH 14 day 20 min Pasta with Shrimps 2-4 hours after snack 1 1. Boil the pasta according to the package directions. Three minutes before the time is up tip in the cleaned + and deveined shrimps/prawns. Reserve a cup of the cooking water, + + then drain the pasta and return to the pan. most of the cheese. Season with WHOLE GRAIN SPAGHETTI, DRY CHEDDAR CHEESE, LOW-FAT SHRIMP, CANNED LEMON JUICE 2oz/60g 1/2 cups 6.5oz/185g 3 tbsp desired spices. Stir everything together, adding some reserved pasta cooking water to loosen the mixture. 3. Serve sprinkled with cheese. Enjoy! NOTE (for gluten intolerant): pay attention to food labels on products to + make sure there is no gluten in any form. 163 + + WHOLE GRAIN LINGUINE PASTA, PARMESAN CHEESE, GRATED, SHRIMP, RAW LEMON ZEST DRY REDUCED FAT 6.5oz/185g 1.5 tbsp 2oz/60g 5 tbsp Choose one from the column 2. Add the lemon zest or juice and 164 DINNER 14 day 30 min Quinoa Salad Bowl 2-4 hours after snack 2, but not later than 3 hours before sleep 1. Prepare quinoa according to package directions. After cooking, allow to cool. + + + + CUCUMBER RED QUINOA, DRY ARUGULA LEAVES OLIVE OIL TOFU 1 large, sliced 1/3 cups 1 cup 1 tsp 6.5oz/185g, cubed 2. Chop vegetables, cheese, and place in a mixing bowl. Add leafy greens, cooked quinoa, oil, and season with salt and ground black 3. Serve the salad in a bowl, and top with chopped fresh parsley. Enjoy! + + + + Suggested seasoning: salt (a pinch), ground black pepper (a pinch), fresh parsley (1 tbsp, chopped). CHERRY TOMATO WHITE QUINOA, DRY SPINACH AVOCADO OIL ORGANIC TOFU, SMOKED 1 cup, halved 1/3 cups 1 cup 1 tsp 3.5oz/100g + 165 + + Choose one from the column pepper to taste. Mix well. + RED BELL PEPPER RAINBOW QUINOA, DRY SPRING MIX SALAD FLAXSEED OIL FETA CHEESE 1 small, sliced 1/3 cups 1 cup 1 tsp 2oz/60g 166 Cut the vegetables Blend ingredients with some 15 day BREAKFAST 5 min Morning Pancakes water, until smooth. Fry spoonfuls of the batter until golden brown on both sides. 30 min 1 hour after waking up into strips. Serve with SNACK 1 Veggies with Dip the dip on the side. Enjoy! 2-4 hours after breakfast Enjoy! + + + + APPLE OAT FLOUR CUCUMBER BABY CARROTS BEET HUMMUS 2 medium 1 medium 1/2 cups 1 large 1 cup 3 tbsp Serve berries (feel free + + Berries and Nuts QUAIL EGG BANANA, RIPE WHOLEMEAL FLOUR 8 medium 1 small 2/3 cups + 167 SNACK 2 to use frozen berries) with nuts and enjoy! + 2-4 hours after lunch Choose one from the column EGG + DUCK EGG PEAR QUINOA FLOUR 1 medium 1 small 1/2 cups COCONUT RASPBERRIES 6 tbsp, shredded 1 cup 168 LUNCH 15 day 30 min Stew with Meat 2-4 hours after snack 1 1. Heat the oil in a large pan over medium-high heat. Add grounded or sliced meat, and cook until brown. + + + + BEEF SHORT LOIN, LEAN, RAW SUMMER SQUASH RED POTATO, RAW WHITE QUINOA, DRY OLIVE OIL 4.5oz/130g 1/2 medium 1/2 medium 4 tbsp 2 tsp 2. Pour water into the pan (the amount of water should be twice the amount of grain) and add grain. Stir in a bit of rosemary, parsley, salt, ground black and spices. 3. Bring to a boil, then reduce the + heat, cover, and simmer for about 10 + + + minutes. Pour some more water, if needed. 4. Cut vegetables, add them to the pan. Cover and simmer for about 20 minutes. BEEF, LEAN, GROUND CARROT NEW POTATO, RAW BASMATI RICE, DRY CANOLA OIL 3oz/85g 2 small, grated 1 small 3.5 tbsp 2 tsp 5. Serve in a bowl. Enjoy! Choose one from the column pepper, or any other desired herbs Suggested seasoning: salt (a pinch), ground black pepper (a pinch), dried rosemary (1/2 tsp), fresh parsley (1/2 tbsp, chopped). + 169 + + + CHICKEN THIGHS, MEAT ONLY CAULIFLOWER BABY POTATO, RAW BROWN RICE, DRY VEGETABLE OIL 4oz/110g 4oz/110g 2 medium 3.5 tbsp 2 tsp 170 DINNER 15 day 10 min Tuna Wrap 2-4 hours after snack 2, but not later than 3 hours before sleep 1. Warm the tortilla/tortillas in the oven or microwave. 2. Mix the cream cheese, ground black + + + + TUNA, CANNED IN WATER ZUCCHINI TOMATO CREAM CHEESE, 15% FAT CORN TORTILLA 3.5oz/100g 1 small 1 large, sliced 3 tbsp 3 medium pepper, and salt, or other favorite spices, then spread it onto the tortillas. 3. Top it off with the tuna and sliced vegetables (serve the excess of the 4. Roll up the wrap and enjoy! + Suggested seasoning: salt (a pinch), + + + ground black pepper (a pinch). TUNA CHUNKS, CANNED IN BRINE CARROT SWEET CORN, CANNED CREAM CHEESE, 34% FAT WHOLE GRAIN TORTILLA 3.5oz/100g 2 small, grated 2.5 tbsp 2 tbsp 2 medium + 171 + + Choose one from the column vegetables aside if needed). + TUNA, CANNED, WITH OIL BABY CARROTS BLACK OLIVES CREAM CHEESE SPREAD, 34% FAT TORTILLA, GLUTEN-FREE 2.5oz/70g 7 medium, grated 3.5 tbsp 2 tbsp 2 medium 172 Blend all ingredients Cook lentils according to the 16 day package directions. In a BREAKFAST 20 min Lentils with Cheese serving bowl combine all ingredients and season with 30 min 1 hour after waking up SNACK 1 Smoothie with Berries smooth. Pour into a glass and enjoy! You 2-4 hours after breakfast can use frozen berries desired herbs. + in a blender until as well. + + FETA CHEESE, REDUCED FAT BLACK LENTILS, DRY SOY MILK RASPBERRIES 3 tbsp 3.5 tbsp, crumbled 1/3 cups 3/4 cups 1 cup Combine all of the + + SUNFLOWER SEEDS LIGHT CHEESE RED LENTILS, DRY 3 tbsp 3.5 tbsp, grated 6.5 tbsp + 173 SNACK 2 ingredients, sprinkle Sweet Snack desired, and enjoy! with cinnamon, if + 2-4 hours after lunch Choose one from the column SEED MIX + FLAXSEED PARMESAN CHEESE, GRATED GREEN LENTILS, DRY 3 tbsp 3 tbsp 6 tbsp RICOTTA CHEESE STRAWBERRIES 4.5 tbsp 1.5 cups, chopped 174 LUNCH 16 day 20 min Pasta with Poultry and Tofu 2-4 hours after snack 1 1. Cook the pasta according to the package directions, drain. 2. Heat the oil in a pan, add sliced or + + + + BUCKWHEAT PASTA, DRY TURKEY BREAST, RAW EGGPLANT TOFU OLIVE OIL 2.5oz/70g 3.5oz/100g, chopped 4.5oz/130g, chopped 2.5oz/70g 2 tsp chopped vegetables, chopped poultry, chopped tofu, and cook for about 10 - 15 minutes, or until poultry is done. mix it all. Add your favorite spices and mix well again. Serve and enjoy! + + + + WHOLE GRAIN PASTA, DRY CHICKEN BREAST, RAW SUN-DRIED TOMATOES ORGANIC EXTRA-FIRM TOFU CANOLA OIL 2.5oz/70g 3.5oz/100g, chopped 8 pieces, sliced 2oz/55g 2 tsp + + + Choose one from the column 3. Add cooked pasta to the pan and + RED LENTIL PASTA, GLUTEN-FREE, DUCK, MEAT AND SKIN, RAW BELL PEPPER ORGANIC TOFU, SMOKED VEGETABLE OIL DRY 2oz/60g, chopped 1 large, chopped 1.5oz/40g 2 tsp 2.5oz/70g 175 176 DINNER 16 day 40 min Roasted Vegetables with Cheese 2-4 hours after snack 2, but not later than 3 hours before sleep 1. Preheat the oven to 180ºC/350ºF. 2. Place the chopped vegetables and cheese in a baking dish. + + + ASPARAGUS PUMPKIN OLIVE OIL HALLOUMI CHEESE 2 cups 1.5 cups, cubed 1 tbsp 2.5oz/70g, cubed 3. Drizzle vegetables with oil and add a pinch of salt, and ground black pepper. 4. Stir and bake for about 20 - 35 Stir every 10 minutes. Squeeze some lemon juice on top, if desired. Serve + and enjoy! + + Suggested seasoning: lemon juice (1 tbsp), salt (a pinch), ground black pepper (a pinch). BELL PEPPER BROCCOLI CANOLA OIL TOFU 1.5 medium, chopped 6.5oz/185g, chopped 1 tbsp 1 cup, cubes + 177 + Choose one from the column minutes, or until vegetables soften. + SHIITAKE MUSHROOMS CAULIFLOWER COCONUT OIL ORGANIC EXTRA-FIRM TOFU 7 mushrooms, chopped 2 cups, chopped 1 tbsp 2/3 cups, cubed 178 Wash and chop the Spread the chosen dip on the 17 day sliced bread and top with the BREAKFAST 5 min Sandwich with Seeds seeds. Serve and enjoy! 30 min 1 hour after waking up fruits and leafy greens. SNACK 1 Fruit Salad with Seeds Combine fruits, leafy greens, and sprinkle 2-4 hours after breakfast seeds on top in a bowl. + + + + WHOLE GRAIN BREAD RICOTTA CHEESE ARUGULA LEAVES PEAR SUNFLOWER SEEDS 1 tbsp 3 slices 4.5 tbsp handfuls 1 medium 1.5 tbsp In a serving bowl + + SNACK 2 combine all Legume Salad with favorite spices, ingredients, season and enjoy! SUNFLOWER SEEDS BROWN BREAD CREAM CHEESE, 15% FAT 1 tbsp 3 slices 4.5 tbsp + 179 + + SESAME SEEDS MULTIGRAIN BREAD VEGETABLE DIP, YOGURT BASED 1 tbsp 3 slices 4.5 tbsp 2-4 hours after lunch Choose one from the column PUMPKIN SEEDS + ARUGULA LEAVES KIDNEY BEANS, CANNED FETA CHEESE handfuls 1/2 cups 2.5 tbsp, crumbled 180 LUNCH 17 day 20 min Porridge with Eggs 2-4 hours after snack 1 1. Cook the grain in boiling water according to package directions. 2. Meanwhile, chop onions and + + + + WILD RICE, DRY EGG OLIVE OIL WHITE MUSHROOMS WHITE ONION 6 tbsp 3 small 1 tsp 4.5oz/130g, chopped 2.5 tbsp, chopped mushrooms. Heat a large frying pan on medium heat, add oil, onions, and a pinch of salt. Fry slowly, stirring once in a while. Once your onions look mushrooms and sauté them for 5 minutes, season with salt and ground + black pepper. + + + 3. Boil the egg/eggs: for 4-6 minutes if the runny yolk is desired or 6-8 minutes for hard-boiled eggs. Peel the egg/eggs. For quail eggs option: boil for 2 LONG-GRAIN RICE, DRY QUAIL EGG CANOLA OIL SHIITAKE MUSHROOMS RED ONION 6 tbsp 9 medium 1 tsp 6 mushrooms, sliced 2.5 tbsp, chopped minutes to a soft boil, and just over Choose one from the column wilted and darker in color, add that for hard-boiled. 4. Place the porridge in a bowl. Top with the remaining ingredients. Enjoy! Suggested seasoning: salt (a pinch), ground black pepper (a pinch). 181 + + + + BROWN RICE, DRY DUCK EGG VEGETABLE OIL PORTOBELLO MUSHROOMS YELLOW ONION 6 tbsp 1 large 1 tsp 2 mushroom caps, sliced 2.5 tbsp, chopped 182 DINNER 17 day 20 min Sauteed Mushrooms with Meat 2-4 hours after snack 2, but not later than 3 hours before sleep 1. Cook the grain according to the package directions, drain. 2. Heat the oil in a medium skillet over + + + + WHITE MUSHROOMS BEEF, LEAN, GROUND OLIVE OIL WILD RICE, DRY BUTTERNUT SQUASH 4oz/110g, chopped 2oz/60g 1/2 tbsp 3 tbsp 4oz/110g, grated medium heat. Add the ground meat, mushrooms, a pinch of salt, and ground black pepper and toss to coat. Let the meat and mushrooms cook, 3. Then stirring only occasionally, until soft and well-browned, 5 to 8 more + minutes depending on the size of your + + + mushrooms. 4. Turn the heat to low, stir in the chopped vegetables and cook for 5-10 minutes more. Turn off the heat and sprinkle with fresh herbs (if SHIITAKE MUSHROOMS BEEF, GROUND RAPESEED OIL BARLEY, DRY CARROT 2 cups, chopped 2oz/60g 1/2 tbsp 3 tbsp 2 medium, grated desire). Serve with the cooked grain. Choose one from the column without stirring, for 5 minutes. Enjoy! Suggested seasoning: salt (a pinch), ground black pepper (a pinch). + 183 + + + PORTOBELLO MUSHROOMS GROUND PORK, RAW SESAME OIL BUCKWHEAT, DRY PUMPKIN 2 mushroom caps, chopped 2oz/60g 1/2 tbsp 3 tbsp 8oz/220g, grated 184 Put all ingredients in a Mix quinoa with milk, let it sit 18 day overnight in the fridge. Warm BREAKFAST 10 min Overnight Porridge up the porridge in the morning, and top it with fruit. 30 min 1 hour after waking up blender and blend SNACK 1 Berry Smoothie until smooth (feel free to use frozen berries). 2-4 hours after breakfast Pour into a glass and enjoy! + + + + SOY MILK, UNSWEETENED PEAR STRAWBERRIES CHIA SEEDS SOY MILK 7 tbsp 1.5 cups 1 large, chopped 1 cup 2 tsp 2/3 cups Make an avocado or + + WHITE QUINOA, DRY ALMOND MILK, UNSWEETENED MANGO 7 tbsp 1.5 cups 6.5oz/185g, sliced + 185 SNACK 2 guacamole toast and Broth with Toast hot broth. Enjoy! + serve together with + RAINBOW QUINOA, DRY OAT MILK, UNSWEETENED PEACH 7 tbsp 2/3 cups 2 small, sliced 2-4 hours after lunch Choose one from the column RED QUINOA, DRY + BEEF BROTH WHOLE GRAIN BREAD AVOCADO 1.5 cups 2 slices, thin 2.5 tbsp, mashed 186 LUNCH 18 day 30 min Pasta with Poultry and Vegetables 2-4 hours after snack 1 1. Cook the pasta according to the package directions. 2. Chop the poultry into small pieces. + + + + CHICKEN BREAST, RAW BLACK SESAME SEEDS CANOLA OIL WHOLE GRAIN PASTA, DRY CHERRY TOMATO 3oz/85g 1 tbsp 2 tsp 3oz/85g 5 medium 3. Heat the oil in a medium saucepan over medium heat. Add poultry. Cook on both sides until browned. 4. Wash and chop chosen vegetables. from the heat, add vegetables, and mix well. + 6. Drain cooked pasta and mix it with + + + poultry and vegetables. 7. Serve on the plate and season with favorite spices. Sprinkle with seeds on top and enjoy! TURKEY BREAST, RAW SESAME SEEDS OLIVE OIL BUCKWHEAT PASTA, DRY TOMATO 3oz/85g 1 tbsp 2 tsp 3oz/85g 1 small + + + TURKEY, LIGHT MEAT, WITHOUT SEED MIX VEGETABLE OIL WHOLE GRAIN LINGUINE PASTA, RED BELL PEPPER SKIN 1 tbsp 2 tsp DRY 1/2 medium 2.5oz/70g 187 + Choose one from the column 5. When the poultry is ready, remove it 3oz/85g 188 DINNER 18 day 20 min Vegetable Pancakes 2-4 hours after snack 2, but not later than 3 hours before sleep 1. Grate chosen vegetables, and place them in a large bowl. 2. Add flour, crack in the egg/s, and + + + + OAT FLOUR EGG ZUCCHINI CARROT GREEK YOGURT, 4% FAT 6 tbsp 2 medium 1 medium 3 medium 2 tbsp add seasoning of your choice. Mix well. 3. Heat a large skillet over medium heat and add cooking oil to the pan. the skillet to form pancakes. Cook for about 2 minutes on each side until + golden brown. Serve with yogurt. + + + Enjoy! WHOLE WHEAT FLOUR QUAIL EGG SUMMER SQUASH SWEET POTATO, RAW COCONUT YOGURT, 6 tbsp 8 medium 1 medium 1 small UNSWEETENED 1 tbsp + + + Choose one from the column 4. Using a tablespoon add batter into + BUCKWHEAT FLOUR DUCK EGG PUMPKIN POTATO, RAW GREEK YOGURT, 0% FAT, 6 tbsp 1 medium 1 cup, grated 1 small LACTOSE-FREE 2 tbsp 189 190 Hit Your Weight Loss Plateau? At this point, it’s totally normal if you are experiencing something called the “weight loss plateau.” WHAT’S THAT? Well, if it seems like you’re strictly following your meal plan and working out regularly but the numbers on your scales have stopped dropping, then that means you’ve hit your weight loss plateau. Sounds pretty frustrating, right? If that has happened to you, our first guess is that you’re not measuring the ingredients you use. Correct us if we’re wrong, but that’s a very common dieting mistake that we simply need to mention in case you’re having trouble recognizing it. Don’t forget to check the exact ingredient’s weight in the Conversion Chart at the back of our book. Let’s say it’s time for a snack and according to your meal plan you’re supposed to have 20g/0.7oz of 191 almonds, which equals 116kcal. That makes about 14 nuts. But if you simply take a handful without measuring it, you might end up consuming 300kcal, which is not exactly what a snack should look like. The same thing can happen with other nuts, grains, and fruit. Even if you are eating super healthy foods but are not reaching calorie deficiency, you won’t be able to lose weight. Hit Your Weight Loss Plateau? First of all, congrats – you’re more than halfway through! If you are measuring your ingredients but still can’t lose weight, chances are that you need to either increase your physical activity or decrease the number of calories you eat. The weight loss program we created for you should ensure both of these things, but whether you follow it correctly is totally up to you. So, do yourself a favor – measure your ingredients, strictly follow your weight loss plan, and soon you’ll be celebrating groundbreaking results! 192 Serve yogurt with Add cheese on the bread 19 day and top the sandwich with BREAKFAST 5 min Sandwich with Cheese and chosen fish. Enjoy! Fish + 30 min 1 hour after waking up sliced fruit and enjoy! SNACK 1 Yogurt with Fruit 2-4 hours after breakfast + + SALMON FILLET, SMOKED RICOTTA CHEESE GREEK YOGURT, 4% FAT KIWI FRUIT 3 slices 3.5oz/100g 4.5 tbsp 1 cup 1 medium Chop vegetables into + + RICE BREAD TUNA, CANNED, WITHOUT OIL CREAM CHEESE, 15% FAT 3 slices 3oz/85g, crumbled 4 tbsp + 193 SNACK 2 desired shapes and Guacamole Snack Enjoy! + serve with guacamole. + BUCKWHEAT BREAD LOX, SALTED SALMON MOZZARELLA CHEESE, PART SKIM 3 slices 3.5oz/100g 1.5oz/45g, sliced 2-4 hours after lunch Choose one from the column WHOLE GRAIN BREAD + COURGETTE CELERY GUACAMOLE 1 small 1 cup, chopped 3 tbsp 194 LUNCH 19 day 20 min Poultry with Grain 2-4 hours after snack 1 1. Cook the grain according to the package directions. 2. Heat the pan with oil, add chopped + + + + CHICKEN BREAST, RAW WHITE QUINOA, DRY EGGPLANT TOFU OLIVE OIL 3oz/85g 6 tbsp 4.5oz/130g, chopped 2.5oz/70g, cubed 2 tsp salted poultry, vegetables, tofu, seasoning, and cook for about 5-7 minutes. 3. Serve with cooked grain and enjoy. ground black pepper (a pinch), curry + powder (1/2 tsp). + + + TURKEY BREAST, RAW BULGUR, DRY SUN-DRIED TOMATOES ORGANIC EXTRA-FIRM TOFU CANOLA OIL 3.5oz/100g 6 tbsp 8 pieces 2oz/60g, cubed 2 tsp + + + Choose one from the column Suggested seasoning: salt (a pinch), + TURKEY, LIGHT MEAT, WITHOUT BROWN RICE, DRY GREEN OLIVES ORGANIC TOFU, SMOKED COCONUT OIL SKIN 5 tbsp 2 tbsp 1.5oz/40g, cubed 2 tsp 2.5oz/70g 195 196 DINNER 19 day 10 min Omelette 2-4 hours after snack 2, but not later than 3 hours before sleep 1. Heat a small non-stick frying pan. 2. Meanwhile, beat the egg/eggs with the herbs of your choice, freshly + + + EGG CUCUMBER BLACK OLIVES RICE BREAD 3 small 1 medium 1/2 cups 2 slices ground black pepper, and a pinch of salt in a small bowl. 3. Pour the egg mixture into the pan and stir gently with a wooden spoon the pan moves. Stop stirring when it's nearly cooked to allow it to set into an + omelet. + + 4. Serve with chopped vegetables and bread aside. Enjoy! Suggested seasoning: dried basil/parsley/rosemary (a pinch), QUAIL EGG TOMATO AVOCADO BUCKWHEAT BREAD 10 medium 1 medium 2oz/55g, sliced 2 slices, thick ground black pepper (a pinch), salt (a Choose one from the column so the mixture that sets on the base of pinch). + 197 + + DUCK EGG CHERRY TOMATO GREEN OLIVES WHOLE GRAIN BREAD 2 small 1 cup, halved 1/3 cups 2 slices 198 Smear the tortilla with Spread the cheese on the 20 day BREAKFAST 5 min Bagel with Ham sliced bagel and top it with sliced ham (add some leafy greens if desired). + 30 min 1 hour after waking up nut butter, add SNACK 1 chopped fruit and Sweet Tortilla Wrap wrap the tortilla. + + 2-4 hours after breakfast + WHOLE WHEAT BAGEL CREAM CHEESE SPREAD, 34% FAT CORN TORTILLA PEANUT BUTTER GREEN GRAPES 3oz/85g 1 medium 1.5 tbsp 1 medium 1/2 tbsp 2/3 cups Cut the vegetables + + SNACK 2 into thin pieces, if Vegetable Snack with Dip with the dip aside. needed, and serve Enjoy! HAM PUMPERNICKEL BAGEL CREAM CHEESE, 34% FAT 2oz/60g 1 medium 1.5 tbsp + 199 + 2-4 hours after lunch Choose one from the column TURKEY HAM + PORK LOIN HAM MULTIGRAIN BAGEL RICOTTA CHEESE 2oz/60g 1 medium 3 tbsp HUMMUS BABY CARROTS 2 tbsp 1.5 cups 200 LUNCH 20 day 20 min Fish with Vegetables 2-4 hours after snack 1 1. Cook the grain according to the package directions. 2. Meanwhile, mix a pinch of salt, + + + COD FILLET, RAW WHITE QUINOA, DRY RADISH OLIVE OIL 5.5oz/155g 1/2 cups 1.5 cups 1 tbsp ground black pepper, and sprinkle over fish. 3. Heat the oil in a medium skillet over medium heat. Add fish fillet and cook 4. Serve with cooked grain and chopped vegetables. Enjoy! + + + Suggested seasoning: salt (a pinch), ground black pepper (a pinch). HADDOCK, RAW BULGUR, DRY CUCUMBER CANOLA OIL 5oz/140g 1/2 cups 2 medium 1 tbsp + 201 + Choose one from the column for about 3-4 minutes per side. + HAKE, SKINLESS, RAW BROWN RICE, DRY RED BELL PEPPER COCONUT OIL 4oz/110g 6 tbsp 1 large 1 tbsp 202 DINNER 20 day 30 min Rice Pilaf 2-4 hours after snack 2, but not later than 3 hours before sleep 1. Heat the oil in a medium pot over medium heat. Cook the sliced meat for about 2-3 minutes, then add rice + + + + BROWN RICE, DRY VEGETABLE BROTH ZUCCHINI CORN OIL TURKEY BREAST, RAW 4.5 tbsp 1.5 cups 2oz/60g, chopped 1 tsp 5oz/140g and chopped vegetables. Cook for a few minutes. Stir frequently. 2. Pour the chosen broth into the same pot and bring to a boil. Add herbs and spices. 3. Reduce heat to low and cover. + Simmer until rice is tender and fluffy. If + + + needed, add more broth/water to make sure that rice does not boil dry. 4. Mix in some chopped fresh herbs of your choice (if desired) and serve. Enjoy! LONG-GRAIN RICE, DRY BEEF BROTH, REDUCED SODIUM CARROT CANOLA OIL CHICKEN BREAST, SKINLESS, 4.5 tbsp 1.5 cups 1 small, grated 1 tsp BONELESS 3.5oz/100g Choose one from the column suggested seasoning, or your favorite Suggested seasoning: minced garlic (1 clove), a bay leaf, dried parsley (1 tbsp), oregano (1/2 tsp), thyme (1/2 tsp), red pepper flakes (1/2 tsp), salt, and ground black pepper to taste. + 203 + + + BASMATI RICE, DRY TURKEY BROTH YELLOW ONION OLIVE OIL DUCK, MEAT AND SKIN, RAW 4.5 tbsp 1.5 cups 1.5 tbsp, chopped 1 tsp 3oz/85g 204 Cook sliced tofu in a Cook the grain according to 21 day package directions. Top BREAKFAST 10 min Oatmeal with Berries and Nuts porridge with chosen berries (feel free to use frozen 30 min 1 hour after waking up pan with some water SNACK 1 Sandwich with Tofu (5-10 minutes). Top 2-4 hours after breakfast the bread with tofu berries) and nuts. + and desired seasoning and leafy greens. + + + STRAWBERRIES ALMONDS TOFU SPINACH WHOLE GRAIN BREAD 3/4 cups 1 cup, sliced 1.5 tbsp 3oz/85g handfuls 1 slice, thick Combine chopped + + SNACK 2 leafy greens, Salad with Ham ham in a bowl. vegetables, and sliced Sprinkle with your OATS, DRY RASPBERRIES PEANUTS 3/4 cups 1 cup 1.5 tbsp + 205 favorite seasoning. + + OATMEAL, DRY BLUEBERRIES HAZELNUTS 3/4 cups 3/4 cups 1.5 tbsp 2-4 hours after lunch Choose one from the column ROLLED OATS, DRY + TURKEY HAM SPINACH GRAPE TOMATO 4oz/110g, sliced 1 cup 7 medium 206 LUNCH 21 day 20 min Lentils with Vegetables 2-4 hours after snack 1 1. Cook the lentils according to the package directions. 2. Heat the oil in a saucepan over + + + + RED LENTILS, DRY CAULIFLOWER OLIVE OIL CABBAGE LEEK 1/2 cups 1.5 cups, chopped 1 tbsp 5.5oz/155g, chopped 3 tbsp, chopped medium heat and cook vegetables until tender, stirring occasionally. 3. Add the cooked lentils to the pan, season with some salt, ground black cook for a few more minutes, while stirring. + 4. Serve in a bowl and enjoy! + + + Suggested seasoning: salt (a pinch), ground black pepper (a pinch). BLACK LENTILS, DRY BRUSSELS SPROUTS CANOLA OIL RED CABBAGE WHITE ONION 6.5 tbsp 6 medium, chopped 1 tbsp 5oz/140g, chopped 3 tbsp, chopped + 207 + + Choose one from the column pepper, herbs of your choice, and + GREEN LENTILS, DRY BUTTERNUT SQUASH SUNFLOWER OIL BROCCOLI GARLIC 1/2 cups 4oz/1100g, chopped 1 tbsp 4oz/110g, chopped 3 cloves 208 DINNER 21 day 30 min Stuffed Zucchini / Squash 2-4 hours after snack 2, but not later than 3 hours before sleep 1. Preheat the oven to 350°F/175°C. Place baking paper in a baking pan. 2. Trim the tops off zucchini/squash + and scoop out the inside. Place the zucchini/squash into the prepared + + + pan. 3. Prepare the chosen grain according 4. Heat oil in a large skillet over SUMMER SQUASH TOMATO GROUND CHICKEN BREAST, RAW WHITE QUINOA, DRY OLIVE OIL 1 medium 1 small 5oz/140g 4 tbsp 1/2 tbsp medium-high heat, add chosen chopped vegetables, ground meat, and cook until browned. 5. Remove from the heat and stir in cooked grain, a pinch of salt and ground black pepper, and your favorite seasoning. + 6. Spoon mixture into zucchini/squash until full. + + + Choose one from the column to the packaging instructions. 7. Bake in the preheated oven for about 15 minutes. 8. Sprinkle with fresh chopped herbs of your choice, serve and enjoy! ZUCCHINI CARROT TURKEY BREAST MINCE BROWN RICE, DRY VEGETABLE OIL 2 small 1 large, grated 4oz/110g 3.5 tbsp 1/2 tbsp Suggested seasoning: salt (a pinch), ground black pepper (a pinch). 209 210 Serve yogurt with Boil the egg/eggs around 22 day 7-10 minutes (or 2-3 minutes BREAKFAST 5 min Boiled Egg with Bread for quail eggs). Serve with bread and vegetables. + 30 min 1 hour after waking up sliced fruit and enjoy! SNACK 1 Yogurt with Fruit 2-4 hours after breakfast + + BELL PEPPER WHOLE GRAIN BREAD GREEK YOGURT, 4% FAT MANGO 3 large 1 medium 3 slices 1 cup 2oz/60g Slice and combine + + SNACK 2 ingredients in a Veggies with Cheese with desired spices serving bowl, season and herbs. Enjoy! QUAIL EGG CUCUMBER BREAD, GLUTEN-FREE 12 medium 2 small 3 slices + 211 + 2-4 hours after lunch Choose one from the column EGG + DUCK EGG CHERRY TOMATO MULTIGRAIN BREAD 2 small 1 cup, halved 3 slices TOMATO FETA CHEESE 2 medium 1/3 cups 212 LUNCH 22 day 20 min Pho with Poultry 2-4 hours after snack 1 1. Heat the oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add garlic, ginger, salt, ground black pepper, and cinnamon, + + + + CHICKEN BROTH EGG NOODLES, DRY GREEN BEANS, FROZEN COCONUT OIL TURKEY BREAST, RAW 1.5 cups 2oz/55g 4oz/110g 2.5 tsp 5oz/140g cook for 1 minute. Stir in broth and sliced meat, bring to a boil over high heat. Reduce heat to medium and simmer, partially covered, for 15 2. Meanwhile, cook noodles/pasta according to package directions. + Drain. + + + 3. Add the chosen chopped vegetables to the broth. Simmer until the vegetables are just heated through, about 3 minutes, remove from heat (adjust the soup consistency VEGETABLE BROTH SOBA NOODLES, DRY SNAP PEAS CANOLA OIL CHICKEN BREAST, RAW 1.5 cups 2oz/55g 3oz/85g 2.5 tsp 5oz/140g by pouring more broth or boiling Choose one from the column minutes. water). 4. Ladle the soup over the noodles/pasta. Top with basil leaves (optional). Serve with a slice of lime (optional). Enjoy! + Suggested seasoning: garlic (1 clove, + + + minced), grated ginger (1 tsp), cinnamon (1/4 tsp), fresh basil leaves (1 tbsp, chopped), lime (1 slice), salt (a pinch), ground black pepper (a pinch). 213 TURKEY BROTH PASTA, GLUTEN-FREE, CORN, DRY GREEN PEAS, FROZEN OLIVE OIL CHICKEN THIGHS, MEAT ONLY 1.5 cups 2oz/55g 4.5 tbsp 2.5 tsp 3.5oz/100g 214 DINNER 22 day 20 min Tortilla Wrap with Meat 2-4 hours after snack 2, but not later than 3 hours before sleep 1. Heat the oil in a medium saucepan over medium-high heat. 2. Add ground meat, chopped + + + + CORN TORTILLA BEEF, LEAN, GROUND ZUCCHINI CANOLA OIL SWEET CORN, CANNED 2 large 3.5oz/100g 1/3 medium 1 tsp 1.5 tbsp vegetables and suggested or seasoning of your choice. Cook until the meat is no longer pink and the vegetables are tender. cooked, stir in 2-3 tbsp of water and simmer until thickened. + 4. Wrap cooked meat and veggies + + + into tortilla and serve. Enjoy! Suggested seasoning: chili powder (a pinch), smoked paprika (a pinch), cumin (a pinch), garlic powder (a WHOLE GRAIN TORTILLA GROUND PORK, RAW RED BELL PEPPER OLIVE OIL CARROT 2 small 3oz/85g 1 small 1 tsp 1 small, grated pinch), ground black pepper (a pinch), Choose one from the column 3. Once the meat is almost fully salt (a pinch). + 215 + + + TORTILLA, LOW-CARB GROUND CHICKEN, RAW GREEN BELL PEPPER CORN OIL YELLOW ONION 2 small 4.5oz/130g 1 small 1 tsp 2 tbsp, chopped 216 Blend all listed Cook the grain according to 23 day the package directions. In a BREAKFAST 20 min Porridge with Cheese serving bowl combine all ingredients and enjoy! 30 min 1 hour after waking up ingredients together SNACK 1 Fruit and Berry Smoothie and your smoothie is ready. Enjoy! Feel free 2-4 hours after breakfast to use frozen berries or fruits. + + + + FETA CHEESE, FAT-FREE CHIA SEEDS STRAWBERRIES SOY MILK MANGO 6 tbsp 4.5 tbsp, crumbled 2 tbsp 3/4 cups 2/3 cups 2.5oz/70g Add the spread onto + + WHITE QUINOA, DRY FETA CHEESE SUNFLOWER SEEDS 6 tbsp 2 tbsp, crumbled 2.5 tbsp + 217 SNACK 2 the rice cakes and top Cake with Spread Enjoy! + with the microgreens. + AMARANTH, DRY PARMESAN CHEESE, GRATED SEED MIX 6 tbsp 2.5 tbsp 2.5 tbsp 2-4 hours after lunch Choose one from the column RED QUINOA, DRY + BEAN SPROUTS RICE CAKE TOFU SPREAD 1/2 cups 3 cakes 2 tbsp 218 LUNCH 23 day 20 min Pasta with Seafood 2-4 hours after snack 1 1. Cook the pasta according to package directions. Drain. 2. Meanwhile, heat oil in a large + + + + RAINBOW TROUT, RAW WHOLE GRAIN SPAGHETTI, DRY RAPESEED OIL ASPARAGUS TOMATOES, CANNED 4oz/110g 2oz/60g 2.5 tsp 4.5oz/130g 2/3 cups nonstick skillet over medium heat. Add chopped vegetables and cook until tender. Then add cleaned seafood and cook for 5-8 minutes, ground black pepper, and desired herbs. + 3. Add in the cooked pasta, chopped + + + parsley, heat through, and mix well. Serve and enjoy! Suggested seasoning: salt (a pinch), ground black pepper (a pinch), SHRIMP, RAW WHOLE GRAIN PASTA, DRY OLIVE OIL EGGPLANT SUN-DRIED TOMATOES 5.5oz/160g 2oz/60g 2.5 tsp 3oz/85g 6 pieces chopped parsley (a pinch). Choose one from the column stirring occasionally. Season with salt, NOTE (for gluten intolerant): pay attention to the food labels due to the possibility of cross-contact with gluten. + + + + KING PRAWNS, RAW WHOLE GRAIN LINGUINE PASTA, VEGETABLE OIL ZUCCHINI CHERRY TOMATO 4.5oz/130g DRY 2.5 tsp 1 small 1 cup, halved 2oz/60g 219 220 DINNER 23 day 10 min Fried Egg with Vegetables 2-4 hours after snack 2, but not later than 3 hours before sleep 1. Heat half of the butter in a nonstick skillet over medium-high heat until it melts. + + + + EGG COCONUT BUTTER BROCCOLI WHOLE GRAIN BREAD CHERRY TOMATO 3 small 1 tsp 1 cup 2 slices 1 cup, halved 2. Add the chosen chopped vegetables in the skillet (leave fresh vegetables for serving, if desired). Cook them for 3-4 minutes. Stir while skillet. 3. Heat another half of the butter. + Crack the egg/eggs into the skillet. + + + Reduce the heat to medium-low. 4. Cook until whites are completely set and yolks begin to thicken but are not hard. 5. Sprinkle with favorite spices and QUAIL EGG BUTTER GREEN BEANS BUCKWHEAT BREAD TOMATO 10 medium 1 tsp 1.5 cups 2 slices 1 medium serve with chosen bread. Enjoy! + 221 + + Choose one from the column cooking. Put them to a side of the + DUCK EGG GHEE BUTTER MUSHROOMS SOURDOUGH BREAD RED BELL PEPPER 2 small 1 tsp 7.5oz/210g 2 slices 1 small 222 Combine yogurt with Place cheese and ham 24 day between 2 slices of bread BREAKFAST 10 min Grilled Sandwich and cook in a nonstick pan until both sides are golden 30 min 1 hour after waking up sliced fruit and your SNACK 1 Yogurt with Fruit snack is ready. Enjoy! 2-4 hours after breakfast brown. + + + WHOLE GRAIN BREAD TOAST LIGHT CHEESE PEACH GREEK YOGURT, 4% FAT 3oz/85g, sliced 4 slices, thin 2oz/60g, sliced 1 large 3/4 cups Combine all the + + HAM RYE BREAD TOAST CHEDDAR CHEESE, LOW-FAT 1.5oz/45g, sliced 4 slices, thin 2oz/60g, sliced + 223 SNACK 2 ingredients in a bowl, Salad with Cheese spices, and enjoy! + sprinkle with favorite + TURKEY HAM WHOLE GRAIN BREAD CREAM CHEESE, 15% FAT 2.5oz/70g, sliced 4 slices, thin 3 tbsp 2-4 hours after lunch Choose one from the column HAM DELI MEAT + BLACK OLIVES FETA CHEESE CHERRY TOMATO 3 tbsp 1/3 cups 5 medium, halved 224 LUNCH 24 day 20 min Stuffed Peppers 2-4 hours after snack 1 1. Preheat the oven to 180°C/350°F. 2. Cook the lentils according to the package directions. + + + GROUND CHICKEN BREAST, RAW RED LENTILS, DRY BELL PEPPER CHICKEN BROTH 6.5oz/180g 4.5 tbsp 3 medium 1.5 cups 3. Mix ground poultry, and suggested or another seasoning of your choice in a medium bowl. 4. Cut the tops off of the peppers and Clean out the ribs and any seeds from the inside of the peppers. Line the + peppers cut side up in a baking dish. + + Set the tops off to the side. 5. Once the lentils are cooked and cooled, stir them into the poultry mixture and mix well. 6. Fill each pepper with the mixture GROUND CHICKEN, RAW LENTILS, DRY RED BELL PEPPER VEGETABLE BROTH 4oz/110g 4.5 tbsp 3 medium 1.5 cups but do not pack the mixture in tightly. Choose one from the column cut out seed pod (save the tops). Just gently fill to the top. 7. Place each pepper top back on to the filled peppers, then pour the broth into the bottom of the pan. 8. Bake until peppers are tender, about 30-40 minutes. + + + Suggested seasoning: salt (to taste), ground black pepper (a pinch), fresh cilantro (1 tbsp, chopped), garlic (1 clove, minced). 225 GROUND TURKEY, LEAN BLACK LENTILS, DRY GREEN BELL PEPPER TURKEY BROTH 3.5oz/100g 4 tbsp 3 medium 1.5 cups 226 DINNER 24 day 40 min Pasta and Mushroom Casserole 2-4 hours after snack 2, but not later than 3 hours before sleep 1. Cook pasta according to the package directions. 2. To a large skillet, add oil and cook + chopped mushrooms over medium heat until light brown. Add your + + + favorite spices. Stir in chosen sauce. 3. Add the cooked pasta to the same everything together. CORN OIL WHITE MUSHROOMS WHOLE GRAIN PASTA, DRY CHEDDAR CHEESE MARINARA SAUCE 1/2 tbsp 5.5oz/155g 1/2 cups 3 tbsp, grated 3.5 tbsp 4. Meanwhile, preheat the oven to 175°C/350°F. 5. Transfer the mixture to a baking dish. Sprinkle with cheese. 6. Bake the casserole in the oven for 15-20 minutes or until bubbly and heated through. Enjoy! + + + + OLIVE OIL PORTOBELLO MUSHROOMS BUCKWHEAT PASTA, DRY CHEDDAR CHEESE, GRATED, BECHAMEL SAUCE 1/2 tbsp 5.5oz/155g 1/2 cups LACTOSE-FREE 3 tbsp Choose one from the column pan with mushrooms and mix 3 tbsp, grated 227 228 Top berries and fruits Cook the grain and chopped 25 day vegetables in water, drain. BREAKFAST 20 min Porridge with Vegetables Place the porridge in a bowl, season and top with the 30 min 1 hour after waking up with ricotta cheese SNACK 1 Sweet Snack with Berries berries or fruit pieces). 2-4 hours after breakfast Enjoy! chosen seeds. + (feel free to use frozen + + + BUCKWHEAT, DRY GREEN BEANS MANGO RASPBERRIES RICOTTA CHEESE 2.5 tbsp 1/2 cups 1.5 cups 3oz/85g 1/3 cups 4 tbsp Choose one from the column PUMPKIN SEEDS Layer half of the + + SNACK 2 tortilla with all Cheese Quesadilla over. Cook in a heated ingredients and fold it non-stick skillet until CHIA SEEDS CORNMEAL, DRY BROCCOLI 2 tbsp 1/2 cups 1.5 cups + 229 crispy. + + HEMP SEEDS AMARANTH, DRY CAULIFLOWER 2 tbsp 6 tbsp 1.5 cups 2-4 hours after lunch ARUGULA LEAVES handfuls + MOZZARELLA CHEESE, WHOLE- WHOLE GRAIN TORTILLA MILK 1 large 3 tbsp, grated 230 LUNCH 25 day 20 min Grain Bowl 2-4 hours after snack 1 1. Cook the grain according to the package instructions. 2. Preheat the oven to 425°F/220°C. + + + + WILD RICE, DRY CAULIFLOWER ZUCCHINI OLIVE OIL CHICKEN BREAST, RAW 4.5 tbsp 5oz/140g, chopped 3/4 medium 2 tsp 5oz/140g 3. Season the poultry with salt and ground black pepper. Add oil and place the poultry and chopped or sliced vegetables in a baking dish. 15-20 minutes. 5. Add cooked grain, poultry, and + vegetables on a serving plate. Add + + + your favorite spices and enjoy! Suggested seasoning: salt (a pinch), ground black pepper (a pinch). BASMATI RICE, DRY BROCCOLI BELL PEPPER SESAME OIL TURKEY BREAST, RAW 4.5 tbsp 3oz/85g, chopped 1 small 2 tsp 5.5oz/155g + 231 + + Choose one from the column 4. Bake until poultry is cooked, about + LONG-GRAIN RICE, DRY CARROT GREEN BEANS CANOLA OIL CHICKEN THIGHS, MEAT ONLY 4.5 tbsp 2 medium, grated 1/2 cups 2 tsp 3.5oz/100g 232 DINNER 25 day 30 min Fish and Vegetable Stew 2-4 hours after snack 2, but not later than 3 hours before sleep 1. Heat the oil in a large pan, add the chopped vegetables and minced garlic (optional). Cook for 5 minutes + + + + TILAPIA FILLET, RAW OLIVE OIL BUCKWHEAT, DRY CARROT TURKEY BROTH 5.5oz/155g 1/2 tbsp 3.5 tbsp 2 medium 1 cup until the ingredients start to soften. Add chosen broth. Season with salt and ground black pepper and bring to a boil, add grain, then cover and until the vegetables and grain are tender and the sauce has thickened. + 2. After vegetables have finished + + + simmering, add fish into the same pan and cook for 5 more minutes or until the fish is cooked (pour in some more broth, if needed). 3. Serve fish stew with chopped SALMON FILLET, RAW CANOLA OIL LONG-GRAIN RICE, DRY ACORN SQUASH VEGETABLE BROTH 3.5oz/100g 1/2 tbsp 2.5 tbsp 3oz/85g 1 cup cilantro, if desired. Enjoy! Choose one from the column simmer on low heat for 15 minutes Suggested seasoning: garlic (1 clove), salt (a pinch), ground black pepper (a pinch), fresh cilantro (1 tbsp, chopped). + 233 + + + RAINBOW TROUT, RAW VEGETABLE OIL BARLEY, DRY BUTTERNUT SQUASH MUSHROOM BROTH 4oz/140g 1/2 tbsp 2.5 tbsp 3oz/85g 1 cup 234 Wash and slice fruits Combine the yogurt with 26 day other ingredients (feel free to BREAKFAST 5 min Yogurt with Side use frozen berries or fruit pieces). Enjoy! + 30 min 1 hour after waking up and leafy greens, add SNACK 1 Fruit and Cheese Salad to a bowl and mix with cheese. Enjoy! + + 2-4 hours after breakfast + GRANOLA, WITHOUT ADDED GREEK YOGURT, 4% FAT ARUGULA LEAVES BLUE CHEESE PEAR 1.5 cups, sliced SUGAR 1.5 cups 1 cup 3.5 tbsp 1 medium 4 tbsp Chop vegetables into + + MANGO BRAZIL NUTS GREEK YOGURT, 0% FAT, 5oz/140g 5 nuts, chopped LACTOSE-FREE SNACK 2 desired shapes and Guacamole Snack Enjoy! serve with guacamole. 2-4 hours after lunch Choose one from the column STRAWBERRIES 1.5 cups + 235 + + PEACH COCONUT GREEK YOGURT, 0% FAT 2 small 1/2 cups, shredded 1.5 cups + GUACAMOLE CUCUMBER BABY CARROTS 3 tbsp 1 medium 9 medium 236 LUNCH 26 day 30 min Quinoa Risotto 2-4 hours after snack 1 1. Rinse and soak the quinoa before cooking, this will help shorten the cooking time. + + + + CHICKEN BREAST, RAW WHITE ONION VEGETABLE BROTH RED QUINOA, DRY OLIVE OIL 4oz/110g 3.5 tbsp 1.5 cups 5 tbsp 1 tbsp 2. Heat the oil in a non-stick frying pan, add the chopped onion and minced garlic (optional) and cook for about 1 minute. Add chopped poultry. dried oregano and ground black pepper, then mix well. After that add + broth, and bring everything to a boil + + + (adjust the consistency by pouring more broth or boiling water). Turn down the heat, add a lid, and simmer, stirring regularly, for 15 minutes. Remove the lid and continue TURKEY BREAST, RAW RED ONION CHICKEN BROTH WHITE QUINOA, DRY CANOLA OIL 4.5oz/130g 3.5 tbsp 1 cup 5 tbsp 1 tbsp simmering for around 10 minutes, Choose one from the column 3. Stir in the quinoa, add a pinch of until the liquid is absorbed and any excess is boiled off. 4. The grain should be cooked but still firm ('al dente'). 5. Stir through the fresh basil, if desired. Enjoy! + + + + Suggested seasoning: garlic (1 clove), dried oregano (a pinch), ground black pepper (a pinch), fresh basil (few leaves). 237 CHICKEN THIGHS, MEAT ONLY YELLOW ONION TURKEY BROTH RAINBOW QUINOA, DRY VEGETABLE OIL 3oz/85g 3.5 tbsp 1.5 cups 5 tbsp 1 tbsp 238 DINNER 26 day 20 min Shrimp Salad 2-4 hours after snack 2, but not later than 3 hours before sleep 1. Heat the oil in a non-stick pan over medium-high heat. 2. Season the chosen seafood with a + + + + ICEBERG LETTUCE CUCUMBER SUNFLOWER OIL WHOLE GRAIN BREAD SHRIMP, CANNED 1 cup, chopped 1/2 medium 1/2 tbsp 2 slices 7oz/200g pinch of salt and add to the heated pan along with minced garlic. Cook for 2-4 minutes on each side (if needed). greens. 4. On a large plate, add leafy greens, + chopped vegetables, and prepared + + + seafood. 5. Drizzle some lemon juice over the prepared salad and add your favorite fresh herbs. 6. Serve with the chosen bread aside. LETTUCE CHERRY TOMATO OLIVE OIL BAGUETTE SHRIMP, RAW 1 cup, chopped 6 medium 1/2 tbsp 2 slices 7oz/200g Enjoy! Choose one from the column 3. Wash and drain the chosen leafy Suggested seasoning: garlic (1 clove), salt (a pinch), lemon juice (1 tbsp), fresh basil/parsley (few leaves). + 239 + + + SPINACH BELL PEPPER VEGETABLE OIL MULTIGRAIN BREAD KING PRAWNS, RAW 1 cup 1 small 1/2 tbsp 2 slices 6oz/170g 240 Cook sliced Boil the porridge with the 27 day milk (add more milk or BREAKFAST 5 min Porridge with Fruit boiling water, if needed), top it with sliced fruit, and enjoy! 30 min 1 hour after waking up mushrooms and SNACK 1 Sautéed Mushrooms vegetable with oil/butter for 7-15 2-4 hours after breakfast minutes over medium heat. Enjoy! + + + + COW'S MILK, 2% FAT APPLE PORTOBELLO MUSHROOMS BUTTER, UNSALTED GREEN BEANS 6.5 tbsp 3/4 cups 1 medium 4 caps 2 tsp 1 cup Coat vegetables in oil + + SNACK 2 and your favorite Vegetable Fries oven at 190°C/380°F spices. Bake in the for about 20 minutes. OATS, DRY OAT MILK PEAR 3/4 cups 3/4 cups 1 medium + 241 + 2-4 hours after lunch Choose one from the column WHITE QUINOA, DRY + AMARANTH, DRY RICE MILK, UNSWEETENED PEACH 6 tbsp 3/4 cups 2 small OLIVE OIL CARROT 3 tsp 2 medium 242 LUNCH 27 day 30 min Stew with Meat 2-4 hours after snack 1 1. Heat the oil in a large pan over medium-high heat. Add grounded or sliced meat, and cook until brown. + + + + BEEF SHORT LOIN, LEAN, RAW VEGETABLE OIL SUMMER SQUASH RED POTATO, RAW WHITE QUINOA, DRY 4.5oz/130g 2 tsp 2/3 medium, chopped 1/4 cups, chopped 4 tbsp 2. Pour water into the pan (the amount of water should be twice the amount of grain) and add grain. Stir in a bit of rosemary, parsley, salt, ground black and spices. 3. Bring to a boil, then reduce the + heat, cover, and simmer for about 10 + + + minutes. Pour some more water, if needed. 4. Cut vegetables, add them to the pan. Cover and simmer for about 20 minutes. TURKEY BREAST, RAW CANOLA OIL CARROT POTATO, RAW BASMATI RICE, DRY 4oz/110g 2 tsp 2 small, grated 1/3 cups, chopped 4 tbsp 5. Serve in a bowl. Enjoy! Choose one from the column pepper, or any other desired herbs Suggested seasoning: salt (a pinch), ground black pepper (a pinch), dried rosemary (1/2 tsp), fresh parsley (1/2 tbsp, chopped). + 243 + + + BEEF LOIN, LEAN, RAW OLIVE OIL CAULIFLOWER NEW POTATO, RAW WILD RICE, DRY 4.5oz/130g 2 tsp 4oz/110g, chopped 1/3 cups, chopped 4 tbsp 244 DINNER 27 day 5 min Open Sandwich with Soft Cheese 2-4 hours after snack 2, but not later than 3 hours before sleep 1. Spread the chosen cheese on the bread slices. 2. Put ham and chopped vegetable on + + + WHOLE GRAIN BREAD SALAMI, REDUCED FAT, 9% RADISH RICOTTA CHEESE 3 slices 2oz/55g, sliced 5 medium 3.5 tbsp top. Garnish with some herbs and spices, if desired, and enjoy! black pepper (to taste), parsley (1 tsp, chopped) + + MULTIGRAIN BREAD HAM CUCUMBER CREAM CHEESE, 15% FAT 3 slices 2oz/55g, sliced 1/2 small 3 tbsp + 245 + + Choose one from the column Suggested seasoning: salt and ground + WHOLE GRAIN BREAD TOAST SERRANO HAM CHERRY TOMATO TOFU SPREAD 3 slices 2oz/55g, sliced 4 medium 3.5 tbsp 246 Spread the cream Toast the sliced bagel, if 28 day BREAKFAST 5 min Bagel with Olives desired. Spread the bagel sides with hummus and top with olives. Enjoy! + 30 min 1 hour after waking up cheese on the SNACK 1 Cake with Berries cake/cakes. Top with the berries. Enjoy! + + 2-4 hours after breakfast + BEET HUMMUS BLACK OLIVES RICE CAKE CREAM CHEESE, 15% FAT STRAWBERRIES 1 large 2 tbsp 4 tbsp 2 cakes 2.5 tbsp 2 medium, sliced Choose your favorite + + and enjoy! Nuts MULTIGRAIN BAGEL HUMMUS GREEN OLIVES 1 large 1.5 tbsp 3 tbsp + 247 SNACK 2 2-4 hours after lunch Choose one from the column WHOLE WHEAT BAGEL + PUMPERNICKEL BAGEL HUMMUS KALAMATA OLIVES 1 large 1.5 tbsp 3 tbsp ALMONDS WALNUTS CASHEW NUTS 16 nuts 1oz/30g 3.5 tbsp 248 LUNCH 28 day 30 min Seafood Pasta with Veggies 2-4 hours after snack 1 1. Cook the pasta in boiling water according to the package directions. Drain and set aside. + + + + WHOLE GRAIN SPAGHETTI, DRY SHRIMP, CANNED CAULIFLOWER SOY MILK, UNSWEETENED SESAME OIL 3oz/85g 3.5oz/100g 4oz/110g 3/4 cups 1/2 tbsp 2. Clean the chosen seafood. In a pan or wok pan, heat the oil and saute chopped vegetables, and seafood on medium-high heat for 2-4 minutes. your favorite seasoning, and milk. Simmer until seafood is fully cooked + (about 4-5 minutes). + + + 4. Add the cooked seafood over the cooked pasta and mix through. Serve with your favorite fresh herbs on the top and enjoy! WHOLE GRAIN PASTA, DRY SHRIMP, RAW BROCCOLI ALMOND MILK, UNSWEETENED OLIVE OIL 3oz/85g 4oz/110g 2.5oz/70g 1 cup 1/2 tbsp Suggested seasoning: salt (a pinch), Choose one from the column 3. To the same pan, add suggested or ground black pepper (a pinch), garlic powder (1/3 tsp). + 249 + + + BUCKWHEAT PASTA, DRY JUMBO SHRIMP, STEAMED BRUSSELS SPROUTS COCONUT MILK, UNSWEETENED VEGETABLE OIL 3oz/85g 3oz/85g 4 medium 2/3 cups 1/2 tbsp 250 DINNER 28 day 30 min Rice Pilaf 2-4 hours after snack 2, but not later than 3 hours before sleep 1. Heat the oil in a medium pot over medium heat. Cook the sliced meat for about 2-3 minutes, then add rice + + + + BROWN RICE, DRY ZUCCHINI CANOLA OIL TURKEY BREAST, RAW VEGETABLE BROTH 4.5 tbsp 1/4 medium, grated 1 tsp 5oz/140g 1.5 cups and chopped vegetables. Cook for a few minutes. Stir frequently. 2. Pour the chosen broth into the same pot and bring to a boil. Add herbs and spices. 3. Reduce heat to low and cover. + Simmer until rice is tender and fluffy. If + + + needed, add more broth/water to make sure that rice does not boil dry. 4. Mix in some chopped fresh herbs of your choice (if desired) and serve. Enjoy! LONG-GRAIN RICE, DRY CARROT OLIVE OIL CHICKEN BREAST, SKINLESS, TURKEY BROTH 4.5 tbsp 1/2 small, grated 1 tsp BONELESS 1.5 cups 3.5oz/100g Choose one from the column suggested seasoning, or your favorite Suggested seasoning: minced garlic (1 clove), a bay leaf, dried parsley (1 tbsp), oregano (1/2 tsp), thyme (1/2 tsp), red pepper flakes (1/2 tsp), salt, and ground black pepper to taste. + 251 + + + BASMATI RICE, DRY YELLOW ONION CORN OIL DUCK, MEAT AND SKIN, RAW MUSHROOM BROTH 4.5 tbsp 1 tbsp, chopped 1 tsp 3oz/85g 1.5 cups 252 Getting Back on Track That’s right. Even the strongest people have a breaking point. However, we are not here to judge. There’s no point in asking you to write down all the sins you’ve committed. We all make mistakes, so let’s make this quick and clear. THE “I CHEATED FOR A DAY” SCENARIO THE “I CHEATED FOR 2–3 DAYS” SCENARIO Okay, let’s assume that something extraordinary happened in your life that made you deviate from your healthy eating plan. Now ask yourself: how do YOU feel? Have you eaten a lot, like REALLY A LOT, of junk food and feel like your progress has rolled back? If so, please read the next part as if you’ve cheated for more than 3 days. Did you eat healthy food but had some minor slips and failed to follow your plan? First of all, relax. If you still have a positive feeling about continuing your diet, get yourself together and continue it from the exact point where you lost control (for example, if you slipped on Day 18 and skipped the following few days, then go back to Day 18 and continue as normal). If your positivity is slowly disappearing, do the same thing. Trust yourself and you’ll recover. However, if you see that the moment is lost and all you can think about are candies and potato chips for tomorrow’s breakfast, that’s a pity. Read the next scenario. THE “I CHEATED FOR MORE THAN 3 DAYS” SCENARIO Don’t make it feel like your diet is having a bad romance with you. You treat it the wrong way and it keeps coming back, naively offering the best it has to offer. Don’t feel like committing? Then put your diet book away and stop breaking our hearts. Come back and start over when you’re ready. 253 Getting Back on Track Keep your head up, Warrior. Go ahead and continue your diet as normal. This slight slip won’t make a huge difference, but you must learn from it. The rule is to get back on track straight away. *Do note that due to cheating and changing your nutrition plan, you might not reach your target weight goal. Stay strong! We hope that you won’t need to visit this page again. 254 Congratulations! You’28-day ve passed the test! You should be SO proud of yourself - you sticked to the plan and knockeddown your inner critic. You’ve probably checked the scales a few times during the past few weeks, but now it’s time to enter your final details (for now!). Keep in mind that a lot can change in 28 days, but it doesn’t end with the numbers on your scales. You’ve grown into a different person; someone who’s strong, dedicated, and inspiring. 255 256 IT’S DONE! Let’s make this feeling last a lifetime Doesn’t it feel marvelous? Now you are both physically and mentally equipped not only to cope with social pressure, but to enjoy the benefits of a healthy lifestyle. Let’s never get back into the same trap of procrastination, insecurity, and self-loathing. Taking control of your life feels amazing, and you have proved to YOURSELF that anything is possible. Never look back. You can now enjoy the rest of your life as a healthy person. But, in order to make sure that you do, read this final chapter. Sit back, relax, and make yourself a celebratory drink (optional of course – we are not forcing you to drink!). You deserve it. IN CASE YOU ARE PRO-MARGARITA, HERE’S A QUICK RECIPE: It’s Done! Tell everyone how freeing it is to kick those unhealthy habits once and for all. How you lost weight is a wonderful conversation starter, particularly when they see how happy and cheerful you are. Share your success story and tell people how lovely it is to wake up in the morning feeling healthy instead of having trouble climbing the stairs. S T R A W B E R R Y M A R G A R I TA YOU’LL NEED: 5 strawberries, hulled and cut in half NUTRITION Serving size: It’s only for you Calories: Doesn’t matter right now 5-6 ice cubes Total Fat: Zero 1.7oz/50ml mini bottle of tequila Carbs: Nobody cares 2 shots of triple sec liqueur Sugar: Enough to boost your mood 2tsp of sugar A squeeze of fresh lime juice A pinch of salt 257 Blend the strawberries, ice cubes, tequila, and triple sec. Add the sugar, lime juice, and salt in a blender. Blend, pour into a salt-rimmed glass, and enjoy! 258 your final lessons 259 Your Final Lessons Beyond 28 Days: 260 261 The best part about exercising is that turning it into a habit is unavoidable. Once you start, you naturally become addicted. Your body gets used to this new routine and requires a constant increase in the workout load. It’s the best addiction you could possibly have. Follow these tips and let it thrive! 2 THE IMPORTANCE OF HYDRATION Every diet book praises hydration like it’s some sort of miracle. You’re not stupid; you know how important it is to drink the right amount of water. So, instead of nagging you about it, we’ll give you some tips: TURN YOUR WORKOUTS INTO A MOOD-LIFTING TOOL. TAKE CARE OF YOUR SPORTSWEAR. SNEAK IT INTO YOUR DAILY ROUTINE drink and you’ll be able to track your hydration results. Feeling down for no reason? Not having a good day? A good workout makes everything better. Your body and mind will be grateful – we are 100% sure that it works. Some people find working out more pleasant if they dress in sportswear. Set yourself a goal and treat yourself to a new pair of sneakers once you’ve reached it. SET REMINDERS TRACK YOUR RESULTS. LISTEN TO MUSIC. Just woke up? Drink a glass of water before you even yawn! In a hurry to leave the house? Take time to drink a glass of water and watch how this superpower helps you to manage to be everywhere on time. It takes only a few seconds of your time, but the benefits are endless. Get yourself a fitness tracker or download an app that allows you to follow your daily activity. Seeing how many steps you walked and marking your workouts as “done” will keep you even more motivated. No matter if you’re a hip-hop lover or a dedicated rock fan, your most preferable soundtrack is another good way to make your workouts more enjoyable. Your Final Lessons 1 MAKING EXERCISE A PART OF YOUR LIFE If you keep forgetting to drink enough water, set reminders on your phone to make sure you stay hydrated. Drinking enough water will boost your memory and soon you won’t need those reminders anymore. GET YOURSELF A NICE WATER BOTTLE ADD SOME FLAVOR Looks good, feels good. Who wouldn’t want to take a sip from a brand new, fancy-looking bottle? Even better, find a marked bottle that shows the number of cups you Lemon, grapefruit, mint leaves, cucumber, and frozen berries are the perfect options for flavoring your water. Trick yourself into drinking it for dessert. 262 directly influences your metabolism SLEEPING HABITS We spend approximately a third of our lives sleeping. Why? Because in order to function during waking hours, our bodies need sleep. Sleep and health are closely connected. Poor sleep means poor health, and poor health makes it harder to sleep. It’s a full circle. Not getting enough sleep could result in anxiety and stress. While we sleep, many necessary functions take place that help our bodies in both physical recovery and repair, supporting brain and cardiac function, body metabolism, our learning capabilities, mood, and memory. What you may not consider, though, is that getting enough sleep also plays a major part in successful weight loss. The amount of sleep you get directly influences your metabolism. Those who are sleep deprived tend to weigh more and have more trouble losing weight than those who get adequate rest, even if they follow the same diet. Lack of sleep makes you more stressed out, which also leads to a lack of appetite control. Sleep deprivation can make you crave sweet or salty foods. If that happens, it’s practically impossible to say no to unhealthy treats. Moreover, sleep also has a large impact on your physical performance. Your body and muscles need time to repair while you sleep so you can push yourself harder the following day. Keep a stable sleep schedule. Try to get up at the same time every day. Avoid consuming alcohol and any other fluids before bedtime. Get at least 7 hours of sleep. FOLLOW THESE 8 SIMPLE TIPS TO ESTABLISH HEALTHY SLEEPING HABITS: Don’t eat large meals before bedtime. If you get hungry at night, eat a light, healthy snack or drink a glass of water. Limit exposure to bright light in the evening. Avoid consuming caffeine in the evenings. 263 Keep your bedroom quiet, relaxing, and at a cool temperature. Your Final Lessons 3 The Amount of Sleep You Get Turn off electronic devices at least 30 minutes before bedtime. 264 4 THE IMPORTANCE OF HOMEMADE FOOD Since you’ve already entered the world of healthy eating, spending more time in the kitchen is something you should definitely get used to. We’re sure you’ll love it. Get yourself some nice-looking dishes and kitchen tools (bless your kitchen scales), keep leveling up your cooking skills, and finally enjoy the appetizing smells coming out of your oven more often. WHY IS HOMEMADE FOOD SO IMPORTANT? LET’S SEE… First of all, you know what’s on your plate. Cooking at home helps you reduce your consumption of processed food and sugar. It makes you think about the ingredients you use, the kind of nutritional value they have, and how much salt you add. Step by step, you are turning into a thoughtful eater whose taste receptors are getting sharper and sharper. Keep it up! VEGETABLES Almost half of your plate should contain various colorful vegetables. Choose a variety of colorful veggies. HEALTHY OILS Choose healthy vegetable oils like olive, soy, corn, sunflower, and others, and avoid partially hydrogenated oils, which contain unhealthy trans fats. LEAN PROTEIN To value this new habit even more, make it social. Isn’t it nice to get together with people for a meal? Invite your family, friends, neighbors, coworkers – anyone! If you enjoy eating with company, make your kitchen the coziest place for catching up (and be ready to share some of your master chef recipes with your guests!). Lean protein power – one-quarter of your plate (e.g., poultry, beans). Try to limit the amount of processed meats. WHOLE GRAINS Go for whole grains on one-quarter of your plate (whole wheat, barley, buckwheat, quinoa, oats, brown rice, and foods made with them, such as whole wheat pasta). 265 Let’s focus on details for a bit. In many cases, details are the most important factor. Check the visualization chart below and learn how to make the perfect food plate. If you are what you eat, you should be developing a very colorful (but also balanced) personality! VEGETABLES HEALTHY OILS Secondly, it saves you a ton of money. Cooking at home is definitely cheaper than eating at restaurants, bars, or grabbing food at takeout spots. Plus, who knows if they serve fresh food anyway? So, save your money, invest in high-quality nutritious products, and bring them home. 5 MAKING THE PERFECT FOOD PLATE LEAN PROTEIN WHOLE GRAINS But sometimes you want less of perfect. If you constantly overeat, it tends to leave you feeling a bit tired and sluggish, which can make it harder to manage your weight. If you feel full before finishing all the meal you’ve prepared, don’t push yourself and trust your body signals. 266 By now, you will know that snacks (balanced and nutritious!) are also a major part of a healthy daily routine. We are sure that you can’t imagine your day without snacking. SO LET’S DISCUSS ESSENTIAL RULES: A FEW EVENING SNACK SNACK TIME Don’t forget that snack time is 2–4 hours after breakfast and lunch. Don’t forget that your evening snack should contain less sugar and fewer carbohydrates. 7 If you’re experiencing food cravings at night, brush your teeth and go to bed earlier. PORTION SIZES Your snack portion should contain approximately 170–185 calories. HERE IS A QUICK LIST OF THE BEST SNACK OPTIONS THAT YOU CAN CHOOSE FROM: • Mixed nuts • Ricotta cheese with flax seeds and • Cucumber slices with hummus • Cherry tomatoes with mozzarella and cinnamon • All kinds of fruit (for your evening snack, fruits are limited to an apple and red • All kinds of berries fresh basil grapefruit) • • • • Celery sticks with cream cheese • Kale chips • Dark chocolate and almonds • Vegetables with guacamole almond milk Greek yogurt and mixed berries Apple slices with peanut butter Chia seed pudding with berries and (a suitable option for the first snack of the day) • All kinds of vegetables • Greek yogurt, soft cheese, and other milk If you get cravings after workouts, prepare your post-workout meal before leaving for the gym. If it’s ready when you get home, you will most likely eat that instead of a bag of potato chips. Reflect on your goals – why is being healthy important to YOU? If you have cravings when you’re stressed, try to avoid triggers. Every time you feel the need to stress eat, stop yourself and write down what exactly triggered you. Soon you’ll notice a pattern. Analyze this tendency and try to avoid situations that cause stress eating. Don’t let your mind trick you ever again. You might think that a piece of cake is exactly what you need, but maybe you’re just dehydrated and need a glass of water. Notice your hunger patterns and learn from them. Food cravings are a major obstacle for people trying to maintain a healthy weight or for those who are switching to a strict diet. If you’re having problems when it comes to saying “no” to that creamy piece of cake, follow these guidelines: Don’t react to your cravings immediately. You need to realize that it’s totally fine to be hungry once in a while. That “hunger” is often just a passing craving if you actually give it time to pass. Stay patient and calm. Your Final Lessons 6 PERFECT SNACKS FOOD CRAVINGS AND SINS Stay busy. There’s usually something you could be doing (work assignments, household chores, etc.) but are putting off. If you feel like the cravings are coming on strong, immerse yourself in one of those tasks and the craving will pass. Drink more water. The next time you’re “hungry,” drink an entire glass of water and wait 10–15 minutes. The result may surprise you! products 267 268 1. QUINOA instead of white rice 2. COCONUT OIL instead of vegetable oil or butter 3. GREEK YOGHURT instead of sour cream 4. POPCORN instead of potato chips 5. ALMONDS instead of croutons 6. COCONUT FLOUR instead of regular flour 7. STEVIA OR HONEY instead of sugar 8. HIMALAYAN SALT instead of table salt 9. MUSTARD instead of mayo 10. ALMOND MILK instead of regular milk 269 Even though you’ve reached the end of your 28-day healthy eating challenge, it’s important to keep some of the healthy snacking and junk food alternatives in mind. Eating clean all the time might seem like too big of a challenge, but sometimes, simply replacing some of your unhealthy delicacies with much healthier options can help in a big way. When you’re hungry, you tend to reach for what’s on hand. By keeping all those healthy food swaps around, you’ll be setting yourself up for nutritional success. In fact, some of these healthy swaps are even more delicious and flavorful than the ones you are replacing! 9 ALCOHOL CONSUMPTION If you think that this chapter will consist of tips on how to avoid drinking alcohol altogether, then you’re wrong. We’ll show you how to consume it and be SMART ABOUT IT. For females, it is recommended to consume no more than three units of alcohol per day. So, what is this so-called unit? ONE UNIT equals 9ml of pure alcohol. Turning these numbers into casual drinks, that would be 250ml of light beer, 120ml of wine, or 25ml of strong alcohol. IF TODAY IS THE DAY FOR GRABBING SOME DRINKS, HERE ARE SOME GREAT TIPS ON HOW TO AVOID WEIGHT GAIN: Making these small changes is easy. The real trouble starts when you’re craving something sweet. Possibly the easiest way to manage those would be to drink a hot cup of tea with honey or have a glass of 100% fruit juice. If that doesn’t help, snack on fresh fruits, berries, sweet veggies, peanut butter, coconut flakes, or sugarless gum. Eat before you drink. Have a healthy meal before you start drinking and you won’t be tempted to go for less healthy options during your night out. Drink a glass of water between your alcoholic drinks. This simple trick will prevent you from becoming dehydrated. Your Final Lessons 8 SWEETS AND JUNK FOOD Don’t mix alcohol. It’s NEVER a good idea. No one will judge you for skipping some of the drinking games and shots. Pick your drink and stick to it – you’ll be grateful in the morning. Bar hopping can lead to drinking more than you intended. Don’t rush. Enjoying some of your favorite drinks at your own place is even better. Start small and soon you’ll be making more great choices and create healthy habits every day. That’s a one-way road to a healthy lifestyle! 270 What Is a Unit? LIGHT BEER (4%) 8.4OZ=107KCAL 250ML=107KCAL STANDARD ALCOPOP (4%) 9.2OZ=171KCAL 270ML=171KCAL CHAMPAGNE (12%) 2.5OZ=171KCAL 270ML=171KCAL WHITE WINE (13%) 2.5OZ=76KCAL 75ML=76KCAL RED WINE (13%) 2.5OZ=65KCAL 75ML=65KCAL STANDARD WHISKEY (40%) 0.8OZ=58KCAL 20ML=58KCAL CUBA LIBRE (13%) 5OZ=136KCAL 150ML=136KCAL VODKA (40%) 0.8OZ=58KCAL 20ML=58KCAL Your Your Cooking Final Cheat Lessons Sheet 271 STANDARD CIDER (4.5%) 7.3OZ=118KCAL 220ML=118KCAL 272 cheat sheet 273 Your Cooking Cheat Sheet Your Cooking 274 How to Cook... OVEN BAKED P O U LT R Y: PORK: For tender beef, preheat your oven to 410°F/210°C and bake for 30 minutes. Lower the temperature to 285°F/140°C and continue cooking until the meat’s internal temperature reaches 160°F/ 70°C. Preheat the oven to 375°F/190°C. Roast the pork in your oven for 20 minutes per pound. When done, remove it from the oven, cover it loosely with foil, and let it rest for 15–20 minutes. STEAMING P O U LT R Y: Your Cooking Cheat Sheet BEEF: Preheat the oven to 350–400°F/180–200°C and bake for 22–30 minutes. Be careful, some cuts of poultry are naturally lean, so if you overcook them, they will come out dry. Place the poultry in a pot fitted with a steamer basket over water. Bring the water to boil and steam the chicken until the juices run clear. This takes about 30 minutes. OVEN BAKED P O U LT R Y: PORK: 275 Heat a frying pan on medium heat, add 1 tablespoon of oil, and cook for 7–8 minutes (each side) or until golden brown. Heat a frying pan on medium to medium-high heat, add 1 tablespoon of oil, and cook for approximately 20 minutes until the pork is golden brown (don’t burn it!). After it’s done, rest the cooked meat for 1–2 minutes (make sure no pink juice remains) 276 Healthy Dressings & Seasonings THE CLASSIC LEMON AND OLIVE OIL DRESSING INGREDIENTS: You can add some delicious, low-fat creamy dressing to wraps or drizzle it over salads. Instead of going for pre-packed options, always use fat-free natural yogurt. This homemade dressing will be much lower in saturated fat than anything you’d find at the store. INGREDIENTS: • • • • • 4.4oz/125g of fat-free yogurt ½ cucumber, chopped roughly 1 teaspoon of lemon juice 1 clove of garlic Freshly grounded pepper (to taste) 1 tablespoon of lemon juice 3 tablespoons of olive oil Black pepper to taste Whisk the ingredients together. Add pepper to taste and store in the fridge. If you want to make the consistency thinner, you can also add a teaspoon of water. LIME AND CHILI DRESSING This Mexican-inspired dressing is ridiculously easy to make and gives salads some spice. INGREDIENTS: Blend all the ingredients in a food processor or blender and store it in the fridge. If you don’t have a processor or blender at home, then you can simply chop the cucumber finely and mix the ingredients together for a chunkier dressing or dip. • • • Squeezed juice of 1 lime 3 tablespoons of olive oil 1 deseeded red chili, finely chopped Healthy Dressings & Seasonings CREAMY CUCUMBER DRESSING • • • Mix all the ingredients together and store in the fridge. CREAMY MINT DRESSING SIMPLE BALSAMIC VINAIGRETTE This low-fat mint dressing is delicious when served with beetroot and bean salads. Balsamic vinegar is full of flavor, and olive oil is filled with unsaturated fats that, when consumed in moderation, are good for your heart. INGREDIENTS: • • 1 tablespoon of balsamic vinegar 3 tablespoons of olive oil Mix all the ingredients together, add pepper to taste, and store in the fridge. 277 INGREDIENTS: • • • • 4.4oz/125g fat-free yogurt 1 teaspoon of lemon juice 1 clove of garlic Freshly chopped mint (to taste) Mix all the ingredients together, add pepper to taste, and store in the fridge. 278 FRUITS MEDIUM LARGE 1 CUP, SLICED/ CHOPPED INGREDIENT 1 CUP, SLICED/CHOPPED 1 TBSP Apple 150g/5.5oz 180g/6.5oz 225g/8oz 115g/4oz Dried Fruits 180g/6.5oz 15g/0.5oz Apricots 20g/0.7oz 30g/1oz 45g/1.5oz 150g/5.5oz Dried Apple 85g/3oz - Avocado 85g/3oz 115g/4oz 165g/6oz 180g/6.5oz Dried Mango 140g/5oz - 100g/3.5oz 115g/4oz 135g/5oz 150g/5.5oz Dried Dates 150g/5.5oz - Grapefruit 195g/7oz 235g/8.5oz 325g/11.5oz 235g/8.5oz Dried Berries 150g/5.5oz 15g/0.5oz Mango 280g/10oz 335g/12oz 700g/25oz 180g/6.5oz BERRIES Oranges 100g/3.5oz 130g/4.5oz 185g/6.5oz 180g/6.5oz Raspberries 115g/4oz 15g/0.5oz Peach 130g/4.5oz 150g/5.5oz 175g/6oz 150g/5.5oz Blueberries 150g/5.5oz 15g/0.5oz Pears 150g/5.5oz 180g/6.5oz 230g/8oz 150g/5.5oz - 900g/32oz - 165g/6oz Cherries 150g/5.5oz 15g/0.5oz Kiwi 60g/2oz 70g/2.5oz 85g/3oz 180g/6.5oz Grapes 150g/5.5oz 15g/0.5oz Plum 70g/2.5oz 85g/3oz 100g/3.5oz 165g/6oz Blackberries 150g/5.5oz 15g/0.5oz Tangerine 75g/2.5oz 85g/3oz 115g/4oz 195g/7oz 28 days: perfect body’s DNA Banana Pineapple INGREDIENT SMALL MEDIUM LARGE 1 CUP, SLICED/ CHOPPED 1 TBSP 7g/0.2oz 12g/0.4oz 18g/0.6oz 180g/6.5oz 15g/0.5oz 1 CUP 1/2 CUP 1/3 CUP 1/4 CUP 1 TBSP 200g/7oz 100g/3.5oz 70g/2.5oz 45g/1.5oz 12g/0.4oz Kidney Beans, canned 185g/6.5oz 85g/3oz 60g/2oz 45g/1.5oz 11g/0.4oz INGREDIENT SMALL MEDIUM LARGE 1 CUP, SLICED/ CHOPPED 1 TBSP Strawberries Pomegranate 200g/7oz 255g/9oz 310g/11oz 180g/6.5oz 15g/0.5oz LEGUMES Olives 3g/0.1oz 5g/0.1oz 7g/0.2oz 130g/4.5oz 9g/0.3oz INGREDIENT GRAINS INGREDIENT Lentils 1 CUP 1/2 CUP 1/3 CUP 1/4 CUP 1 TBSP 195g/7oz 100g/3.5oz 60g/2oz 45g/1.5oz 13g/0.5oz Navy Beans, canned 240g/8.5oz 115g/4oz 85g/3oz 60g/2oz - Couscous 180g/6.5oz 85g/3oz 60g/2oz 45g/1.5oz 11g/0.4oz 240g/8.5oz 115g/4oz 85g/3oz 60g/2oz 15g/0.5oz Sorghum 195g/7oz 100g/3.5oz 60g/2oz 45g/1.5oz 12g/0.4oz White Beans, canned 240g/8.5oz 115g/4oz 85g/3oz 60g/2oz 15g/0.5oz Barley 200g/7oz 100g/3.5oz 60g/2oz 45g/1.5oz 10g/0.3oz Black Beans, canned Chickpeas, canned 170g/6oz 85g/3oz 60g/2oz 45g/1.5oz 10g/0.4oz Quinoa 170g/6oz 85g/3oz 55g/2oz 40g/1.5oz 11g/0.4oz Chickpeas, dry 200g/7oz 100g/3.5oz 60g/2oz 45g/1.5oz 10g/0.4oz Bulgur 180g/6.5oz 85g/3oz 55g/2oz 45g/1.5oz 8g/0.3oz Green Peas 155g/5.5oz 85g/3oz 60g/2oz 45g/1.5oz 10g/0.4oz Buckwheat 170g/6oz 85g/3oz 55g/2oz 40g/1.5oz 11g/0.4oz Green Beans 130g/4.5oz 60g/2oz 45g/1.5oz 30g/1oz - Millet 170g/6oz 85g/3oz 55g/2oz 45g/1.5oz 11g/0.4oz Snap Peas 155g/5.5oz 85g/3oz 60g/2oz 45g/1.5oz - Oats 85g/3oz 45g/1.5oz 30g/1oz 25g/1oz 10g/0.3oz Edamame Beans 155g/5.5oz 85g/3oz 60g/2oz 45g/1.5oz 10g/0.4oz Cornmeal 155g/5.5oz 85g/3oz 55g/2oz 40g/1.5oz 10g/0.3oz 170g/6oz 85g/3oz 60g/2oz 45g/1.5oz 10g/0.4oz Amaranth 195g/7oz 100g/3.5oz 60g/2oz 45g/1.5oz 12g/0.4oz Rice Soybeans Conversion Chart SMALL INGREDIENT 279 DRIED FRUITS 280 V E G E TA B L E S MEDIUM LARGE 1 CUP, SLICED/ CHOPPED 1 TBSP, CHOPPED Okra - 20g/0.7oz - 155g/5.5oz 10g/0.3oz - Baby Corn - - - 225g/8oz 14g/0.5oz 150g/5.5oz 10g/0.3oz Sweet Corn - - - 170g/6oz 10g/0.3oz 30g/1oz 150g/5.5oz 10g/0.3oz Portobello Cap - 50g/1.7oz - 115g/4oz 8g/0.3oz 2g/0.1oz - 55g/2oz 5g/0.2oz Mushrooms 10g/0.4oz 18g/0.6oz 23g/0.8oz 85g/3oz 10g/0.3oz 155g/5.5oz 200g/7oz 280g/10oz 100g/3.5oz 7g/0.2oz Lettuce 540g/19oz 625g/22oz 800g/28oz 70g/2.5oz 3g/0.1oz 10g/0.3oz 15g/0.5oz 20g/0.7oz 115g/4oz 7g/0.2oz Iceberg Lettuce 325g/11.5oz 540g/19oz 755g/27oz 70g/2.5oz 4g/0.1oz 30g/1oz 45g/1.5oz 60g/2oz 150g/5.5oz 7g/0.2oz Romaine Lettuce - - - 50g/1.7oz 3g/0.1oz 130g/4.5oz 170g/6oz 250g/9oz 100g/3.5oz 7g/0.2oz LEAFY GREENS - - - 100g/3.5oz 6g/0.2oz INGREDIENT 60g/2oz 100g/3.5oz 130g/4.5oz 225g/8oz 15g/0.5oz Kale 100g/3.5oz 115g/4oz 185g/6.5oz 135g/4.5oz 9g/0.3oz Spinach 200g/7oz 285g/10oz 370g/13oz 155g/5.5oz 10g/0.3oz Arugula Leaves (Rocket Salad) Cauliflower 270g/9.5oz 575g/20oz 840g/29oz 130g/4.5oz 8g/0.3oz Carrot 75g/2.5oz 100g/3.5oz 130g/4.5oz 155g/5.5oz Baby Carrots 7g/0.2oz 10g/0.3oz 15g/0.5oz Potatoes 170g/6oz 210g/7.5oz Sweet Potatoes 60g/2oz Cabbage SMALL MEDIUM LARGE 1 CUP, SLICED/ CHOPPED 1 TBSP, CHOPPED Tomatoes 90g/3oz 130g/4.5oz 185g/6.5oz 165g/6oz 10g/0.3oz Tomatoes, canned - - - 240g/8.5oz Cherry Tomatoes 10g/0.3oz 15g/0.5oz 30g/1oz Grape Tomatoes 10g/0.3oz 15g/0.5oz - Cucumber Radish Celery, stalk 28 days: perfect body’s DNA Leek Scallion (Green Onions) INGREDIENT 1 CUP, SLICED/CHOPPED 1 TBSP, CHOPPED 70g/2.5oz 8g/0.3oz 30g/1oz 2g/0.05oz 20g/0.7oz 2g/0.05oz Spring Mix Salad 30g/1oz 2g/0.05oz 10g/0.3oz Salad Greens 30g/1oz 2g/0.05oz 115g/4oz 10g/0.3oz P L A N T- B A S E D P R O D U C T S 370g/13oz 155g/5.5oz 10g/0.3oz 115g/4oz 185g/6.5oz 130g/4.5oz 10g/0.3oz 800g/28oz 910g/32oz 1100g/39oz 85g/3oz 10g/0.3oz Asparagus 11g/0.4oz 15g/0.5oz 20g/0.7oz 185g/6.5oz 11g/0.4oz Pumpkin 905g/32oz 3630g/130oz 6800g/243oz 240g/8.5oz 15g/0.5oz Acorn Squash 450g/16oz 675g/24oz 900g/32oz 200g/7oz 15g/0.5oz Butternut Squash 420g/15oz 530g/19oz 675g/24oz 200g/7oz 15g/0.5oz Summer Squash 185g/6.5oz 340g/12oz 515g/18oz 185g/6.5oz 15g/0.5oz Zucchini (Courgette) 185g/6.5oz 210g/7.5oz 325g/11.5oz 210g/7.5oz 13g/0.5oz Brussel Sprouts 10g/0.3oz 20g/0.7oz 30g/1oz 155g/5.5oz 10g/0.3oz Eggplant 430g/15oz 570g/20oz 680g/24oz 100g/3.5oz 6g/0.2oz 30g/1oz 50g/1.7oz 100g/3.5oz 170g/6oz 11g/0.4oz Onion Bell Pepper Broccoli Beet INGREDIENT Conversion Chart SMALL INGREDIENT Sun-dried Tomatoes 281 V E G E TA B L E S A N D L E T T U C E 1 CUP 1/2 CUP 1/3 CUP 1/4 CUP 1 TBSP 1 TSP Plant Based Milk 240g/8.5oz 120g/4.2oz 85g/3oz 60g/2oz 15g/0.5oz 5g/0.2oz Tofu Cheese 240g/8.5oz 120g/4.2oz 85g/3oz 60g/2oz 15g/0.5oz - - - - - 15g/0.5oz 5g/0.2oz 225g/8oz 115g/4oz 70g/2.5oz 60g/2oz 15g/0.5oz - Vegetable Broth 240g/8.5oz 120g/4.2oz 85g/3oz 60g/2oz 15g/0.5oz 5g/0.2oz Mushroom Broth 240g/8.5oz 120g/4.2oz 85g/3oz 60g/2oz 15g/0.5oz 5g/0.2oz Coconut Butter Soy Yogurt 282 BAGELS/TORTILLAS/BREAD INGREDIENT FLOUR 1 MINI 1 SMALL 1 MEDIUM 1 LARGE Bagel 45g/1.5oz 70g/2.5oz 100g/3.5oz 130g/4.5oz Tortilla - 30g/1oz 45g/1.5oz 60g/2oz SLICE OF BREAD 1 THIN SLICE 1 SLICE 1 THICK SLICE 15g/0.5oz 30g/1oz 40g/1.5oz Bread NUTS 1/2 CUP 1/3 CUP 1/4 CUP 1 TBSP 110g/4oz 55g/2oz 35g/1.2oz 30g/1oz 7g/0.2oz Coconut Flour 130g/4.5oz 65g/2.5oz 40g/1.5oz 30g/1oz 9g/0.3oz Almond Flour 95g/3.5oz 45g/1.5oz 30g/1oz 25g/0.8oz 7g/0.2oz Buckwheat Flour 120g/4oz 60g/2oz 40g/1.5oz 30g/1oz 8g/0.3oz Oat Flour 90g/3oz 45g/1.5oz 30g/1oz 25g/0.8oz 7g/0.2oz 100g/3.5oz 50g/1.7oz 30g/1oz 25g/0.8oz 7g/0.2oz Whole Wheat Flour 1 CUP 1/2 CUP 1/3 CUP 1/4 CUP 1 TBSP 1 PIECE Cashews 140g/5oz 70g/2.5oz 45g/1.5oz 35g/1.2oz 9g/0.3oz 2g/0.06oz Whole-grain Flour 110g/4oz 55g/2oz 35g/1.2oz 30g/1oz 8g/0.3oz Almonds 140g/5oz 70g/2.5oz 45g/1.5oz 35g/1.2oz 9g/0.3oz 1g/0.04oz Quinoa Flour 110g/4oz 55g/2oz 35g/1.2oz 30g/1oz 6g/0.2oz Peanuts 140g/5oz 70g/2.5oz 45g/1.5oz 35g/1.2oz 9g/0.3oz 1g/0.04oz Wholemeal Flour 115g/4oz 55g/2oz 35g/1.2oz 30g/1oz 8g/0.3oz Walnuts 115g/4oz 60g/2oz 45g/1.5oz 30g/1oz 7g/0.2oz 4g/0.1oz 105g/3.5oz 50g/1.7oz 35g/1.2oz 25g/0.8oz 6g/0.2oz Pistachios 130g/4.5oz 60g/2oz 45g/1.5oz 30g/1oz 8g/0.3oz 1g/0.04oz Gluten-free Flour 140g/5oz 70g/2.5oz 45g/1.5oz 35g/1.2oz 10g/0.3oz Hazelnuts 130g/4.5oz 60g/2oz 45g/1.5oz 30g/1oz 8g/0.3oz 2g/0.05oz Rice Flour 140g/5oz 70g/2.5oz 45g/1.5oz 35g/1.2oz 10g/0.3oz Pecans 100g/3.5oz 45g/1.5oz 35g/1.2oz 25g/0.8oz 7g/0.2oz 2g/0.05oz Corn Flour 115g/4oz 55g/2oz 35g/1.2oz 30g/1oz 7g/0.2oz Coconut 85g/3oz 45g/1.5oz 30g/1oz 21g/0.7oz 5g/0.2oz - Pine Nuts 140g/5oz 70g/2.5oz 45g/1.5oz 35g/1.2oz 8g/0.3oz - Nut Butter 255g/9oz 130g/4.5oz 85g/3oz 60g/2oz 15g/0.5oz - SEEDS INGREDIENT Spelt Flour Rye Flour PA S TA / N O O D L E S INGREDIENT 1 CUP 1/2 CUP 1/3 CUP 1/4 CUP Whole Grain Pasta 115g/4oz 60g/2oz 35g/1.2oz 30g/1oz Gluten-free Pasta 140g/5oz 70g/2.5oz 45g/1.5oz 35g/1.2oz Buckwheat Pasta 115g/4oz 60g/2oz 35g/1.2oz 30g/1oz 1 CUP 1/2 CUP 1/3 CUP 1/4 CUP 1 TBSP 1 TSP 130g/4.5oz 70g/2.5oz 45g/1.5oz 35g/1.2oz 8g/0.3oz 3g/0.1oz Quinoa Pasta 140g/5oz 70g/2.5oz 45g/1.5oz 35g/1.2oz Pumpkin Seeds 115g/4oz 60g/2oz 39g/1.4oz 35g/1.2oz 10g/0.4oz 3g/0.1oz Red Lentil Pasta (Gluten-free) 140g/5oz 70g/2.5oz 45g/1.5oz 35g/1.2oz Sesame Seeds 130g/4.5oz 70g/2.5oz 45g/1.5oz 30g/1oz 9g/0.3oz 3g/0.1oz Rice Noodles 170g/6oz 85g/3oz 55g/2oz 45g/1.5oz Chia Seeds 185g/6.5oz 85g/3oz 60g/2oz 45g/1.5oz 12g/0.4oz 4g/0.1oz Egg Noodles 155g/5.5oz 80g/2.8oz 45g/1.5oz 40g/1.4oz Flaxseeds 170g/6oz 85g/3oz 60g/2oz 45g/1.5oz 10g/0.4oz 3g/0.1oz Soba Noodles 115g/4oz 60g/2oz 35g/1.2oz 30g/1oz Hemp Seeds 170g/6oz 85g/3oz 60g/2oz 45g/1.5oz 10g/0.4oz 3g/0.1oz Mixed Seeds 140g/5oz 70g/2.5oz 45g/1.5oz 35g/1.2oz 8g/0.3oz 3g/0.1oz Poppy Seeds 140g/5oz 70g/2.5oz 45g/1.5oz 35g/1.2oz 9g/0.3oz 3g/0.1oz Sunflower Seed Butter 255g/9oz 130g/4.5oz 85g/3oz 60g/2oz 15g/0.5oz 5g/0.2oz Sunflower Seeds 283 1 CUP Conversion Chart 28 days: perfect body’s DNA INGREDIENT INGREDIENT 284 G R O U N D M E AT DAIRY PRODUCTS INGREDIENT 1 CUP INGREDIENT 1/3 CUP 1/4 CUP 1 TBSP 240g/8.5oz 120g/4.2oz 85g/3oz 60g/2oz 15g/0.5oz 115g/4oz 60g/2oz 38g/1.4oz 30g/1oz 7g/0.3oz Mozzarella Cheese, shredded 100g/3.5oz 45g/1.5oz 30g/1oz 25g/0.9oz 7g/0.3oz Feta Cheese, crumbled 155g/5.5oz 70g/2.5oz 45g/1.5oz 39g/1.4oz 10g/0.4oz Parmesan Cheese, grated 100g/3.5oz 45g/1.5oz 30g/1oz 25g/0.9oz 5g/0.2oz Gouda Cheese, grated 115g/4oz 55g/2oz 35g/1.2oz 30g/1oz 7g/0.2oz 140g/5oz Milk Turkey Breast, ground 140g/5oz Pork, ground 140g/5oz Cheddar Cheese, grated Beef, ground 155g/5.5oz INGREDIENT 1 SMALL FILLET 1 MEDIUM FILLET 1 LARGE FILLET Chicken Breast 85g/3oz 115g/4oz 170g/6oz Turkey Breast 85g/3oz 115g/4oz 170g/6oz Swiss Cheese, grated 115g/4oz 60g/2oz 35g/1.2oz 30g/1oz 8g/0.3oz Duck Breast 85g/3oz 115g/4oz 170g/6oz Blue Cheese, crumbled 140g/5oz 70g/2.5oz 45g/1.5oz 30g/1oz 8g/0.3oz Salmon 115g/4oz 170g/6oz 225g/8oz Ricotta Cheese 240g/8.5oz 115g/4oz 85g/3oz 60g/2oz 15g/0.5oz Catfish 115g/4oz 170g/6oz 225g/8oz Cream Cheese 225g/8oz 115g/4oz 75g/2.5oz 60g/2oz 15g/0.5oz Cod 115g/4oz 170g/6oz 225g/8oz Yogurt 225g/8oz 115g/4oz 70g/2.5oz 60g/2oz 15g/0.5oz Haddock 115g/4oz 170g/6oz 225g/8oz Sour Cream 225g/8oz 115g/4oz 70g/2.5oz 60g/2oz 12g/0.4oz Tilapia 115g/4oz 170g/6oz 225g/8oz Curd 115g/4oz 55g/2oz 35g/1.2oz 30g/1oz 10g/0.3oz Cottage Cheese 225g/8oz 115g/4oz 70g/2.5oz 55g/2oz 15g/0.5oz Butter - - - - 15g/0.5oz Ghee Butter - - - - 15g/0.5oz INGREDIENT 1 CUP 1 TBSP Tuna, canned 225g/8oz 15g/0.5oz 325g/11.5oz - 1 TBSP 1 TSP 15g/0.5oz 5g/0.2oz Hummus 30g/1oz 10g/0.4oz Guacamole 30g/1oz 10g/0.4oz Soy Sauce 15g/0.5oz 5g/0.2oz Tamari 15g/0.5oz 5g/0.2oz Pesto Sauce 15g/0.5oz 5g/0.2oz Chili Sauce 15g/0.5oz 5g/0.2oz Tzatziki 15g/0.5oz 5g/0.2oz Vegetable Dip 15g/0.5oz 5g/0.2oz Shrimps OIL, SAUCES AND DIPS INGREDIENT Oil Conversion Chart 28 days: perfect body’s DNA 1/2 CUP Chicken Breast, ground M E AT, F I S H A N D S E A F O O D 285 1 CUP EGGS INGREDIENT 1 SMALL 1 MEDIUM 1 LARGE Egg 38g/1.4oz 45g/1.5oz 50g/1.8oz Quail Egg 6g/0.2oz 9g/0.3oz 15g/0.5oz Duck Egg 50g/1.8oz 70g/2.5oz 85g/3oz 286