Weight Loss & Diet Plans

The Sonoma Diet

What the Experts Say About The Sonoma Diet continued...

Also pointing out the positive, Clemens, a food science communicator for the Institute of Food Technologists said, "The author, Connie Guttersen, has an interesting and creative approach to encourage people to modify their behaviors in a fun manner."

Both experts remarked on Guttersen's emphasis on portion control, and Zied sees the diet as sensible though she does have reservations about Wave 1.

"The first wave is the most extreme, the most low-calorie," says Zied, who is unsure how realistic it is to ban processed foods and sugars from the home, especially when not everyone in the house is on the diet.

"It's too simplistic," says Zied. "I have cookies in my cabinet, but moderation is preached in my home."

Both experts agree that for all of Wave 1's limitations, the result is likely to be a rapid drop in pounds -- anywhere from 2 to 5 over the 10 days, according to Guttersen -- an important psychological boost for many embarking on a new weight loss plan.

Zied, however, says that Wave 2 of The Sonoma Diet encourages a more sustainable weight loss.

"I say, get rid of the gimmick, and just go to Wave 2, and that's giving you a basically healthy diet with some indulgences."

Food for Thought

Clemens wishes the book contained a greater emphasis on exercise, maintaining that it's an essential element to overall health.

"If there was a sequel to the book, I think [Guttersen] would do well to team up with an exercise expert that has the friendly style that she has," Clemens said.

Overall, Guttersen's diet recommendations appear sound. Enjoying alcohol in moderation, eating plenty of produce, minimizing refined foods, and being vigilant about portion size are all basic tenants of most medically approved eating plans. They get a thumbs up from Zied.

"Cutting your portions of energy-dense foods, incorporating more physical activity, and doing simple things are really going to make a difference over time," she says.