Very Low-Fat Diets for Weight Loss

Pritikin

Nathan Pritikin, PhD, developed the Pritikin diet in the 1970s. It’s similar to the Ornish program, with no more than 10% of calories coming from fat. Pritikin does allow some lean meat and seafood that is rich in omega-3 fatty acids.

Basic concept

Pritikin encourages eating natural, nutrient-rich, high-fiber foods. Daily exercise is part of the program.

How it works

The theory is that when you limit fat to 10% of your daily calories, there’s no need to count calories. Eat often to keep from feeling hungry—six or seven meals a day. You can eat as much as you want of whole grains, vegetables, and fruit. Exercise every day: for example, take a 45-minute walk.

On the menu

• Whole grains
• Unprocessed vegetables
• Unprocessed fruits
• Nonfat dairy products
• Egg whites
• Lean meats
• Omega-3 fatty acids (fat like that found in fish) in very small amounts

Off the menu

• White pasta
• White bread
• Egg yolks
• Caffeine
• Processed foods
• Most fats

For more information, see the topic Weight Management.

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Author:	Debby Golonka, MPH	Last Updated: February 6, 2009
Medical Review:	Ruth Schneider, MPH, RD - Diet and Nutrition Rhonda O'Brien, MS, RD, CDE - Diabetes Educator
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