Schwarzbein Principle: At a Glance
Very similar to the Atkins Diet, the Schwarzbein Principle involves a high protein/low carbohydrate plan to provide the body with “healing”.
As it is documented on the extensive official website, this plan was created by Dr. Diana Schwarzbein, who has done quite a bit of work with patients suffering from diabetes. Then she wrote two books on her Principles, opened up an Institute, and created a variety of diet supplements and equipment for exercise.
A lot of information is presented, but the way it’s presented makes it difficult to wade through. One of the great features about the website is its use of footage showing Dr. Schwarzbein in shows she has been on and answering the FAQ section herself.
Schwarzbein has written two books in the “Principle” series which may be purchased from the online store, as well as cookbooks, exercise tools, and other Schwarzbein Principle related items. The official website has a lot of useful information and downloads, such as a food/mood exercise work sheet, a list of food brands and products Schwarzbein recommends, and information about the Institute.
Schwarzbein Principle: Facts
Diana Schwarzbein does not think aging and degenerative diseases are genetic, but instead they are created by unhealthy lifestyles. She believes that weight loss and good overall health and well-being can be achieved with five basic principles. These are healthy nutrition (not missing any meals, eating healthy snacks, and consuming healthy fats), stress management (as well as getting enough sleep), avoiding toxins (including caffeine, nicotine and artificial sweeteners), regular exercise, and (if required) hormone replacement therapy.
The website displays quite a bit of information about the basics of the diet. However, you would have to buy the books before you could really try out this diet, since the website does not include any menu plans, food lists or shopping guides.
Dr. Schwarzbein presents lectures and a variety of personal consultations in addition to overseeing the diet plan. This may include a personal consultation with Schwarzbein by phone, then a $625 meeting with a dietitian.
Schwarzbein Principle: Positive Features
- Dr. Schwarzbein has a lot of professional experience and created her plan after many years of research.
- It is possible to adapt the diet for vegetarians.
- The diet’s five principles are easy to understand.
- All aspects of health are addressed, not just weight loss.
- A regular exercise program is part of the plan.
- It is not required to pay an initial fee to become a member or to receive a subscription.
- Downloadable worksheets and other information is provided on the website.
Schwarzbein Principle: Negative Features
- Independent consumer reviews have not rated the diet positively.
- Some of the things Schwarzbein recommends have not been accepted and are still very controversial, such as use of HRT and eating more fats and proteins.
- The diet is comparable to the popular Atkins diet plan.
- It was reported by some people that they gained weight while on this product.
- It doesn’t indicate how long the plan is or how much weight one can expect to lose.
Schwarzbein Principle: Conclusion
Even though the Schwarzbein Principle is based on common sense, just like many other diet plans on the market today, it is touted as a revolutionary breakthrough. It would no doubt create a healthier lifestyle to follow the advice in the book, even though some things are easier said than done — for example sleeping and exercising more, and reducing stress levels.
It would be smart for anyone thinking about this diet to talk it over with his/her doctor prior to embarking on the diet, or perhaps select a plan that is less controversial amongst other online diet forum users.