Dieting. It’s a classic story for the ages that has seen so many myths, harsh realities and confusing quests to achieve one’s desired result. But with so many voices talking about the subject, it can be hard to distinguish what actually works and what is just a waste of your time. Of course, I could tell you that the key to leading a healthier lifestyle is to get off your butt and work out more and combine that with foods that are “healthier”; sadly, no, that doesn’t include the maple bar from Krispy Kreme that you had this morning. But what’s the fun in that? You’ve already heard that advice a million times, so this time I’m going to give you an opportunity to explore yet another diet and decide for yourself if the results (and sacrifices) are worth it. Introducing the “Eat Nothing White” diet:

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What is it?

The “Eat Nothing White” diet, also called “No White at Night” diet, is based upon the principle of losing weight by cutting out “white” foods, which contain high concentrations of simple carbohydrates that can lead to drastic weight gain. Proponents of the diet praise its ability to reduce blood sugar (helping to keep weight in check), but often cite its difficulty to maintain long term. The diet calls for you to cut out white foods, including white potatoes, rice, flour, beans, sugar and products made with these, like bread or pasta. Additionally, dieters are urged to cut out products that would be white without artificial coloring added, like butter and cheddar cheese. Of course, like any diet there are exceptions to the white cut-outs. Exceptions are cauliflower, white fish and poultry meat.

What can you eat?

The diet seems simple to follow as all you have to do is make sure you’re cutting out the “bad” foods and sticking to the good. This diet is a good one to combine with other, healthier meal plans. For example, while cutting out the white foods, make sure that what you are eating is still beneficial for you. A sample menu includes lots of whole grains, vegetables, fruits, poultry/fish, nuts and brown rice or beans.

Pros/Cons

Unfortunately on trend with a lot of other fad diets, this one has a list of disadvantages. It has a high history of being too difficult to stick with, as cutting out all white foods is difficult. Additionally, many have seen that once they introduce these foods back into their diet, they also say hello to the weight they dropped. But on the bright side, the success of this diet truly does depend on you and how far you decide to take it. The disadvantages only lie in one’s inability to stick with it, which means there aren’t any significant health risks (which is common with other fad diets) and you remain in control of the results.

The Verdict
Personally, I think it’s a bit difficult to completely cut anything out of your normal routine, let alone foods that are often considered staple items. However, this diet does seem like, if done properly, you’ll see results. My advice, take it in moderation. Cut out some of the white foods you typically eat, like flour and sugar, and keep everything else in check. Exercise more than you probably want to, and add some other colors through fresh fruits and veggies. Also, if you try this, let me know how it goes!