The 17 Day Diet is a weight loss diet claiming to offer up to 12 pounds of weight loss within the first 17 days. It’s said to help people lose weight by confusing the body, keeping metabolism in a fat burning state.
No pre-packaged foods or supplements are required. Foods are to come from whole foods found in grocery stores. There’s 4 different cycles one has to follow, each one lasting 17 days, except the final phase which is followed for the entirety of one’s life, if one happens to not gain any more weight:
• Accelerate: This part of the diet promises fast results, as well as nutrients to help get rid of fat in stubborn areas. It’s said that digestive health will be improved, and sugar will be removed from one’s diet in to further decrease fat storage.
Only 1,200 calories are allowed per day. This phase promises between 10 to 12 pounds of weight loss. It's likely most of the weight loss in this phase is not fat but water. Carbohydrates are strictly restricted, which is the reason why water weight is lost, as they are known to hold unto water.
A low calorie diet of just 1,200 calories might be unhealthy according to Live Strong.com:
“Do not attempt a low-calorie diet unless you are under the strict supervision of your doctor”
“Some symptoms of severe calorie restriction are weakness, fatigue, cold intolerance, irregular menstrual periods, dizziness, constipation and swelling”
It may also promote more serious issues such as gout caused by high uric acid in the blood. The same group adds:
“not taking in the proper amounts of vitamins, protein and electrolytes, you are at risk for malnutrition disorders”
Since much less food is allowed, this places the body not just in a deficit of calories, but also less nutrients due to the loss of many foods.
They also point out the flaws of long term dieting like this:
“You are more likely to burn muscle than fat”
It’s believed that because of the reduction of calories and carbohydrates that most of the weight loss will only be water. Live Strong.com adds:
“It’s possible to lose as much as 20 pounds of body during one week, most of which is water”
This initial loss of water will likely return once one reintroduces carbohydrates. There are possible symptoms caused by a lack of carbohydrates as well, since they are the brain’s primary fuel source via its glucose. This can lead to side effects such as:
Brain fog, loss of focus, and difficulty thinking.
Reduced reaction time, fatigue, and difficulty exercising.
Nausea, mood swings, and issues with regulating temperature.
• Activate: This changes from the low calorie planning found in the first phase, alongside a much higher calorie allowance. 5 to 6 pounds of weight loss is said to be possible.
The intention of this plan is to help the body’s metabolism constantly be confused, so it activates at a higher level. There’s no proof however that this is actually true. No clinical studies have shown that metabolism is changed for the better when one reduces and suddenly raises calories.
• Achieve: Another 2 to 3 pounds of weight loss are said to be possible. One also introduced better eating habits to stick with in this phase. Things like portion control are taught. A 17 minute spot reduction workout is offered, which is meant to be a way to target specific areas that have body fat. Though this claim has been disproven according to Examine.com:
“Spot-reduction (losing fat in one place) is not possible”
• Arrive: By this point all eating habits should be established to allow for continuing this diet for the rest of one’s live. Some occasional cheat meals are allowed on the weekend. This point is intended to help one keep their weight steady.
US News had this to say about the diet:
“no studies have specifically evaluated the 17-day-diet- and “body confusion” has not been scientifically proven”
This diet is similar in fact to other low carbohydrate diets which offer quick weight loss. Examine.com adds:
“people on low-carb diets lose weight because they naturally eat less and avoid the large binges caused by carbohydrate cravings”
EDITOR’S TIP: Combine this diet with a proven meal replacement such as 18 Shake for better results.
The 17 Day Diet Quality of Ingredients
The kinds of ingredients used are wholesome since only grocery foods that are unprocessed are allowed. The issue is that the diet itself has not been proven to be any different than any other low carbohydrate diets.
There’s also a suggested 17 day cycle for 3 of the phases. There’s no evidence that 17 days are needed for metabolism to be confused and working at a high level. The diet also emphasizes spot reduction which also has not been scientifically proven.
The Price and Quality of the 17 Day Diet
The book itself sells for $18.88 on Amazon.com, though there are also cookbooks, new editions, and reduction plans offered under the same basic diet strategy. There are also optional supplements, DVD’s, and workout gear offered.
Other process to consider is the costs for grocery shopping, as meals need to be cooked at home to prepare them the right way.
Business of The 17 Day Diet
The creator of the book is Dr. Mike Moreno, a family medicine practitioner. He has no background in nutrition or weight loss.
Here are some reviews from users who posted their reviews online:
“couldn’t make it past a couple of days because of how hungry I was”
“highly disappointed and disgusted that U had wasted my money on a book with concepts that I already knew”
“it’s really difficult to keep up, long term. It isn’t really 17 days”
“I found this book similar to common sense previous diets… no sugar, no white anything”
The common concern from most users was that there wasn’t anything in this diet but common sense weight loss tips. This includes not eating processed foods, white and refined grains, sugar, and other unwanted foods.
There were also issues with people having it really difficult to keep up with the diet long term, since there are many restrictions and extreme calorie restrictions. People also added that they regained all their weight when they reintroduced carbohydrates into their diets.
Before making a final decision on the 17 Day Diet, it’s important to look over all the available facts. Many people who used it say they found it to be hard to maintain due to the extreme calorie restrictions in the first 17 days. This 1,200 calorie limit is not advised to be followed without the help of a doctor, according to health websites. There’s also an extreme limit on carbohydrates to start with, which is likely the reason there’s any weight loss, which is mostly water weight and not fat.
The 2024 best diet of the year is called the 18Shake Diet. It offers a combination of two all-natural diet supplements. A diet pill that raises metabolism with no added stimulants, and a nutritionally well rounded meal replacement that customers say helps suppress appetite, all while having a pleasant taste. Many people have left testimonials and positive reviews saying how effective this diet is for sustained weight loss.
If its okay to create our own menu instead of following the one dr.mike created ?
Hey there everyone :)
My name is sapphire and I am just starting to do the 17 day diet but I would like to know for the meals menu is it okay if I create my own menu? instead of following the one already in the book. I mean I will use the food he advises us to eat but I just wanted to know if it's okay to create our own meal menu's ? :)
@NLee doesn't the resistance feel absolutely amazing. I love that feeling of knowing I don't need coke and froot loops too feel good. I am so proud that you are getting through all of this day by day. My prayers go out to the Hamil family, my stomach just dropped as I read that. These storms are literally tearing families apart and it really does seem like when is enough, enough. I know you are staying strong, best of luck at the memorial and with the racy whether. You should be so proud for sticking this through and fighting the cravings.
Another lb gone !!! And I walked FIVE MILES today too !!! SO EXCITED !!!
@NLee, thanks for the kudos, I REALLY appreciate it...and I wanted to tell all of you that YOU CAN DO IT !!! Cos if I can do it,ANYBODY CAN !! And I mean ANYBODY !!! ;o)))))
When are nuts included back into your diet and how much?
So when is it that nuts are allowed back into your diet and at what amount, i know they have a lot of good fats so just wondering i love to snack on almonds or walnuts.
@Beach femme- My friends and family fared ok through the tornadoes, some familes not so much. I've lived in Oklahoma all my life and never seen so many and so strong. Thanks for your post. 12 lbs in 17 days is awesome!!! Way to go. You should be proud of yourself girl. I do understand when the scale goes to the 1's instead of the 2"s. Just keep it up. Cycle 2 looks like you alternate days on cycle l then cycle 2. I am not having any craving for sugar at all. Thought that I would have a diet coke every once in awhile, but really don't even want it. This morning my granddaughter had a bowl of sweet cereal, it actually made me sick to my stomach when I smelled it as I was pouring it. My portions have also gotten smaller, just get full and satisfied and stop eating, never done that. My peace each day come from the Lord, so all is good here. Please remember the Hamil family, lost 2 children in the tornado, they were taking cover in the bathtub, which we do when we don't have a shelter. They just found the 3 yr old today, in a pond, so sad. The mom and another sister is critical, and mom is 5 months pregnant. We are blessed girl. Have a good Memorial Weekend. I'm going to try and do a lot of activity this weekend, including cleaning house, lol. I'm honored to have you as a diet partner.
@Dixiejet- Awesome girl for you and your mom. THis is day 11, cycle 1 for me also, but I am only weighing once a week, so that will be next monday. I am so amazed also that I do not have cravings. Enjoying my meals, so satisfied that I'm not hungry in between meals, drinking lots of H2O. Just need to get my activity up, I will, just trying to get used to the plan first, I guess, lol. Keep up the good work ladies. Thanks for posting, it encourages me to keep going.
C1D11 & so far, 8 lbs in 10 days! My 75 yr old Mom is on it,too & has gone from 149 to 138,so she's lost a lb a day ! This is so AWESOME !! I don't EVEN crave sweets,at all, first time in my life . I think what I will do is do C1 & C2 till I drop the majority of the weight then go on to C3 & C4....has anyone else done that ? I still have about 55-60 lbs to lose...60 depends on how comfortable I feel after 55...grin
@NLee Oh my dear I've been keeping up with the news on that, please stay safe! I can't imagine the feeling, find some time even just 5 minutes for a little peace in your day it can make it that much better. Please just remember to stay safe and keep us updated.
Your weight loss is great so far, only 8 more days you can push through. I feel exactly the same way I constantly have the urge to weigh in but if I only do it on D7 and D17 I feel like the results satisfy me way more and I have that much more motivation to push to the goal.
Great news today was C1D17, moving on to C2 in the morning and I lost another 6 pounds. Adding up to a total weight loss of 12 pounds on cycle one. I really can't believe it. I'm aiming for 6-8 lbs on (each cycle) C2 and C3 because weight loss will decrease but I am so satisfied. I actually cried when the scale read 198 I can't remember the last time I saw a 1 instead of a 2 as the 1st numeral on the scale.
Just drives me to keep moving, and you should as well.
@ Miss Patti- your story about WW is my own, except I need to lose more than 30 lbs. My SIL told me about this plan and I am on Cycle 1 day 10 and loving it. After 7 days lost 5.5. I agree that this is a healthy plan, I also have had no cravings. The first few days I think I was detoxing from the sugars/diet coke and felt horrible, but feeling great now. Good luck. We can do this!!
I am a lifetime member of WW.. For the past 11/2 year I have tried to lose 30 lbs. One week take off 1-2 lbs , next week put on 1-2 lbs.WW is good but I cannot do the points because you can eat ANYTHING but in moderation. I cannot control sweets and ice cream.
I saw my friend in the store and she told me she lost 25 lbs. she told me how. Came home and went right to Amazon and ordered the book. I am on day 8. I love the program because it is so easy to follow. No cravings for sweets or ice cream. I wish he would tell the portion size of a turkey burger. Very good diet because it is easy and HEALTHY.
posted May 25th, 2011 1:25 am
NLee
@ E. Giordano- Congrat's on your weight loss and in 8 weeks. What an encouragement this was to hear. I'm on day 9 of the 1st Cycle. First week lost 5.5. Stoked about that. Really feeling much better now, first few days not so good, detox from sugar/diet coke was the culprit I think. I have not cheated or strayed from the book either. I always try not to, so I can see if what the book says really works. So far so good. Hope you will keep posting. So encouraging to hear about others views. Keep going strong....
@Beachfemme- Thanks for your post, I would love to be a buddy. This is day 9 in cycle 1 for me. Doing OK. I am not going to weigh except on the start of a new week and of course day 17 of each cycle. Sometimes I get really curious and want to weigh everyday, however it also makes me crazy if I don't see a loss, so I do better to stay off the scale except once a week. My first week lost 5.5. Today we were dodging tornadoes in Oklahoma, so it was stressful and I was not at home for my evening meal, but my daughter had salad and turkey so I managed to do OK. Is tomorrow the end of cycle 1 for you? Good luck. I have to always remember that I did not put the weight on in a short time, so it will take a while to get it off. I'm still very excited about this plan. It's how I should have been eating anyway. Let me know how you do tomorrow.... Thanks for being my buddy and encourager.....
@Beachfemme- Congrat's on your weight loss too. Sounds like you and I have about the same amount to lose. We can do this. As far as your question about the cycles, you can do what you want, but I know that I am going to do it like the book says, at least the first time, then after I start on C1 again, I may tweek it, but probably won't. Just my opinion. Maybe you will get some more views. Keep up the good work!!!
I looooove this diet! I lost 30lbs in only 8 weeks and I feel wonderful! I have more energy, less stomach issues and fit back into all my "skinny" clothes. I highly reccommend the diet to anyone who has a significant amount of weight to lose because you can do it safely AND quickly. But you must follow the diet. No substitutions, no cheating. You will be glad you stuck with it. I sure am!!!!
Thank you, Dr. Mike!!!!!
posted May 23rd, 2011 10:13 pm
beachfemme
+
Hey guys! I just wanted to congratulate you all on your weight loss so far whether it be 5lbs or 100lbs everyone is doing great!
I myself am 17 years old and have always packed extra pounds. Always feeling groggy lazy and tired ever since I got onto the 17DD I no longer have any chest/back/knee pains and I just feel so much more energetic. I finally feel like I'm taking my life back from the food I let hold me down.
I am at C1D15 (only 2 more days of cycle1) it's been fantastic. I started at 210lbs and on D7 I weighed in at 204lbs !!
Down a full 6 pounds I was so proud of myself.
The next time I weigh in is D17 as I only weigh myself on D7 and D17 of each cycle. To not stress myself out, every weigh in I'll be back with more results.
These numbers encourage me to keep going with a total of 60lbs+ too lose and get that bikini body 140-145. I am setting short term goals of 20lbs and for every 20 I get a treat (ex. body parfume) and at the last 20lbs a grand shopping trip.
It would be a dream for me to loose that 60 by the end of august.
My curiosity is with repeating cycles:
I know Dr.Mike recommends going in the order C1,C2,C3 (repeat till goal is reached) then C4.
But I love C1 so much C2 foods look that much more appetizing.
-Would it be fine for me to do my process as C1,C2,C1,C2,C3,C4?
-Or is it better to do C1,C2,C3, C1,C2,C3,C4?
-Also on C2 instead of eating the Power Cookie can I eat a Protein Bar?
This diet is so easy to to follow. There are plenty of meals suggested for you in the book, and there are even great recipes in the back for you to try. The thing I like most about this diet is that it's not really a diet at all...it's a healthy eating guide. This year, I couldn't figure out why I was going to the gym 3-4 times a week and not gaining a pound. After reading this book, it became very clear - I was eating nothing but crap. After switching my diet to fruits, vegetables, healthy proteins and WATER (something I had been neglecting big time), I have lost 5 pounds in the first 6 days (and haven't been to the gym once). I have a friend who has lost 8 pounds in the first week as well, and our starting weights were 20-30 pounds apart. The 17 minute exercise plan is completely reasonable. This book has helped me get back on track with my eating and I feel great. As the diet progresses, you begin to reintroduce carbs (bread, pasta etc.) and red meats, so you are not on a restricted diet for the rest of your life - just a healthy one.
I definitely reccomend.
posted May 23rd, 2011 3:06 pm
NLee
Starting 2nd week on plan, down 5.5 lbs. feeling awesome. Kicking up the activity this week, first week did not do the walking. Ready to do this. No cravings, not hungry in between meals. Eating a lot of veggies, trying to be creative and not get bored.
C1D7 - lost 4.4 lbs so far !!!! I'm SO excited. I used to eat a lot of junk food and whenever I would "eat right" on my own to lose weight, I would have major withdrawal (cravings and massive headaches). I was extremely surprised that I had neither. No cravings ... no headaches. I have lots to lose, but I'm setting my goals in small increments (10 lbs at a time), that way the goals are easier to achieve. I'm SO glad that my neighbor told me about this program.
The 17 Day Diet is a weight loss plan available in a book from Dr. Mike Moreno, a family medicine practitioner in San Diego, CA. His book was born of a weight loss plan he prescribed to his overweight patients, namely as a way to manage the holidays. The friendly Dr. Mike, as he is known to his patients, is proactive in helping them manage their health and weight, and even created a program called "Walk with Your Doc" back in 2008. Two days a week he and patients meet for a walk to encourage them to exercise and keep the doctor-patient relationship thriving.
In November 2010, The 17 Day Diet debuted on an episode of Dr. Phil with a raving endorsement from the doctor. That appearance was immediately followed by one on The Doctors (the two shows are jointly produced), and a weight loss challenge between viewers of each program initiated. The self-published book was an overnight success and Moreno's supply could not keep up with the overwhelming demand.
In spring 2011, Moreno fielded multiple offers from publishing houses interested in purchasing the book's rights, and he awarded those to Simon & Schuster, who immediately ran a second printing of the book. The only difference was a revised cover. This second printing helped push The 17 Day Diet to sales of more than one million copies by the end of 2011.
During 2011, Moreno and his publishers also produced the 17 Day Diet Workbook, a Spanish-language version of the book, and started work on a 17 Day Diet Cookbook that will debut in spring 2012. They also started a partnership with Bistro M.D. to manage a 17 Day Diet meal plan, with meals suited to the diet's specifications delivered to customers at home.
How the 17 Day Diet Works
The 17 Day Diet relies on a style of weight loss known as metabolic confusion, which means you're changing up what you're doing on a regular basis to keep your body from settling in to a routine.
Like many popular diet programs, 17 Day Diet is cyclical, using four phases, or cycles, to progress people from start to goal. The diet itself does not actually last a mere 17 days, instead, that is the length of time for each of the four cycles.
Cycle 1: Accelerate. Jump start the program and facilitate rapid weight loss, cleansing, and fat burning. Discourages fat storage.
Cycle 2: Activate. During this cycle you will "reset" your metabolism.
Cycle 3: Achieve. Develop healthy eating habits, and develop a new understanding of how to eat carbs.
Cycle 4: Arrive. Considered the maintenance phase and the culmination of what was learned in the first three cycles. On weekends, you have freedom to enjoy just about anything you like.
If you make it to cycle four and have not yet reached your goal, then it is encouraged and advised that you jump back to another cycle and continue your efforts, on schedule. Cycle four is considered the maintenance phase, and is reserved for those who've reached goal by following the guidance outlined in the first three cycles.
The 17 Day Diet provides direction for a healthy way of eating that is sustainable - it's clean, includes healthy carbohydrates, lean proteins, healthy fats, and eliminates processed and fried foods.
The fitness aspect is minimal, especially at the start with only 17 minutes of exercise per day proposed. However, followers are encouraged to do more as they are physically able and comfortable to expand their fitness regimen.
PRO
Created by a medical doctor who specializes in weight loss
Promotes clean eating
Possible to lose weight at a steady and healthy rate
Includes a maintenance plan
The "diet" is sustainable
Provides a clear and organized eating plan
Promotes exercise
Book is available nationally
Spanish-language version available
Vegetarian-friendly
Diabetic-friendly for types 1 and 2
Diet is flexible to suit unique dietary needs or taste
Some food specifications create confusion with users
Recommended rate of weight loss exceeds most industry standards of 1-2 pounds per week
No online community support or access to experts
Beginner exercise recommendation is lower than industry standard of 30 minutes per day
EXERCISE
The 17 Day Diet makes minimal recommendations for exercise; however, like many diet plans, it does not dismiss the necessity of a regular fitness regimen completely.
For beginners, the 17 Day Diet recommends a mere 17 minutes of exercise each day. This can be as simple as walking, you can follow along with the 17-minute workout DVD that is sold on the book's website.
As you progress through the program, become stronger and more able-bodied (for those with no prior history of exercise), the advice is still loose but encourages you to double or triple the amount of time you spend working out each day. Guidance is given to do activities that you love, with walking always being a go-to sport.
Cycle 1: 17 minutes of exercise per day
Cycle 2: 17 minutes of exercise per day
Cycle 3: 40-60 minutes of aerobic exercise most days
Cycle 4: Try to do an hour on the weekends, in addition to a regular regimen throughout the week
DIET and NUTRITION
The 17 Day Diet relies on a cycled eating plan to help you lose weight. During four cycles, each lasting 17 days (or longer in cycle four), you'll change how many servings of healthy carbohydrates, lean proteins, and healthy fats that you eat each day.
Overall, The 17 Day Diet is a clean-eating plan, with guidance to eat the "right" kind of carbs, meaning white grains and fresh fruits and vegetables, not processed "white foods," like bread, crackers, and cookies. You'll eliminate processed foods, processed sugar, and fried foods; you might balk at the thought of this, but it's guidance that any healthy eating plan is going to provide.
Each of the four cycles has its own objective, whether it be jump starting your fat burn, resetting your metabolism, teaching portion control, or recognizing true hunger. Through this process, you'll actually start to crave the foods that are nourishing your body, like a meal of roasted turkey with asparagus, rather than a burger and fries.
It's fair to want to know exactly what you'll be eating before taking on a new diet. The 17 Day Diet book outlines detailed meal plans for each day of each cycle, so all you have to do is shop and prepare, eliminating the worry and frustration over what you can or cannot eat. The following is a snapshot of what a day of meals look like on each 17 Day Day cycle:
Rate of Weight Loss*: 5-10% of total body weight; 10-20 pounds
Breakfast: Plain low-fat yogurt with fresh berries, green tea
Lunch: Green salad with a variety of vegetables like tomato and cucumber with a homemade vinaigrette, green tea
Dinner: Grilled salmon, choice of raw or steamed vegetables, green tea
Snacks: Sugar-free fruit-flavored yogurt, choice of one fruit
Cycle 2: Activate
Goal: Rest the metabolism, stimulate fat burn
Rate of Weight Loss*: Half of cycle 1; 5-10 pounds
Breakfast: Scrambled egg whites, half grapefruit or in-season fruit, green tea
Lunch: Baby spinach salad with tomatoes and feta and homemade vinaigrette, green tea
Dinner: Grilled turkey patties, side salad, green tea
Snacks: Fresh berries, plain low-fat yogurt
Cycle 3: Achieve
Goal: Nurture healthy eating habits, reintroduce more foods, move closer to goal weight
Rate of Weight Loss*: Half of cycle 2; 2.5-5 pounds
Breakfast: High-fiber cereal with skim milk, fresh berries, green tea
Lunch: Whole-wheat pita with lettuce, tomoato, feta cheese, Italian dressing; baby carrots; green tea
Dinner: Barbecued boneless chicken breast, steamed vegetables like asparagus or broccoli, green tea
Snacks: choice of one fruit, Skinny Cow ice cream sandwich
Cycle 4: Arrive
Goal: Maintain goal weight
Brunch: Blueberry waffles with syrup, turkey sausage, orange juice Dinner: Grilled chicken breast, steam broccoli, green tea Snacks: Sugar-free fruit-flavored yogurt, raw baby carrots
These rates of weight loss were determined during an interview with Dr. Mike Moreno in 2011. This is the amount of weight he says you could safely lose within each cycle. Pounds lost are based on a 200-pound person. The industry standard rate of weight loss is 1-2 pounds per week.
The 17 Day Diet Meal Plan from Bistro MD
If you're short on time or not yet comfortable with your skills in the kitchen, the 17 Day Diet Meal Plan is available from Bistro MD, a leader in the meal delivery space. Each meal follows your progress through each cycle, each day to help keep you in line with the 17 Day Diet guidelines.
17 Day Diet Special Notes
The diet is suitable for both type 1 and type 2 diabetics. In an interview with Dr. Mike Moreno in 2011, he noted some type 2 diabetics have used 17 Day Diet and reduced or eliminated their need for medications. For type 1 diabetics, he advises more diligent assessment of sugar levels.
The diet is flexible enough to meet the needs of vegetarians. You'll simply modify the protein suggestions, for instance, replacing fish and chicken with soy, dairy, and legumes.
Those who don't care for seafood or fish can also alter the diet and replace with the other lean protein of their choice, like turkey, chicken or pork.
If green tea doesn't appeal to you, this can also be skipped by replacing with a green tea supplement and/or at least one cup of the tea each day.
I and my husband have been on this diet since May and I have lost 45lbs, went from a size 16 to a size 8 and my husband has lost 40lbs so far.This is by far the best "diet" I have been on. It is so easy and such a great change in our eating habits. - Tessa Letzinger 12/31/11
I lost 7 lbs in the first week and I feel great. I will continue on until I reach my goal weight.I am really excited and I feel so much in control. Unlike other diets this is very realistic. - Tammy 12/13/11
I've been on this diet for 40 days now, and I've lost a total of 25 lbs!I love this diet, and feel so healthy on it. Its the diet plan I have been waiting for! - Beth 12/8/11
I have lost 60 lbs in 7 months.I feel great am doing things I haven't been able to do in years. My diabetes is under control. - Susan C. 10/9/11
This is the greatest diet there has been and it does WORK if you eat what he tells you to eat and don't cheat.Healthwise, it makes you feel so much better and it is because of what you are putting in your mouth. - Carol 8/15/11
The 17 Day Diet, by Dr. Mike Moreno, only debuted in 2010 and quickly rose to compete with some of the biggest and oldest names in dieting. The book comes with mostly sound nutritional and fitness guidance and is oulined in such a way that makes it easy, almost effortless, to follow and see results.
One of the best things about this weight loss plan is its design to not only help you lose weight, but set you up for sustainable weight maintenance, which is the true sign of a quality program.
It's availability via a book makes it widely accessible and affordable, so there are no on-going fees, unexpected charges, or recurring needs to re-subscribe. Purchase it once and you could use it for life.
On The 17 Day Diet you'll "re-learn" how to eat, focusing on a balanced diet of lean proteins, whole grains, fresh fruits ad vegetables; and you'll eliminate the junk and processed foods that were no doubt a culprit in your weight and health issues.
Be sure to follow the fitness guidance, as moderate as they may be. If you're comfortable with doing more, speak with a trainer, medical professional, or continue to follow your own tried-and-true regimen of daily physical activity.
User Feedback
(Page 20 of 56, 1103 total comments)Sapphire c.
?If its okay to create our own menu instead of following the one dr.mike created ? Hey there everyone :) My name is sapphire and I am just starting to do the 17 day diet but I would like to know for the meals menu is it okay if I create my own menu? instead of following the one already in the book. I mean I will use the food he advises us to eat but I just wanted to know if it's okay to create our own meal menu's ? :)
beachfemme
@NLee doesn't the resistance feel absolutely amazing. I love that feeling of knowing I don't need coke and froot loops too feel good. I am so proud that you are getting through all of this day by day. My prayers go out to the Hamil family, my stomach just dropped as I read that. These storms are literally tearing families apart and it really does seem like when is enough, enough. I know you are staying strong, best of luck at the memorial and with the racy whether. You should be so proud for sticking this through and fighting the cravings.
posted May 26th, 2011 8:35 pmWe can do this!
Dixiejet
Another lb gone !!! And I walked FIVE MILES today too !!! SO EXCITED !!!
posted May 26th, 2011 7:57 pm@NLee, thanks for the kudos, I REALLY appreciate it...and I wanted to tell all of you that YOU CAN DO IT !!! Cos if I can do it,ANYBODY CAN !! And I mean ANYBODY !!! ;o)))))
skokesh
?When are nuts included back into your diet and how much? So when is it that nuts are allowed back into your diet and at what amount, i know they have a lot of good fats so just wondering i love to snack on almonds or walnuts.
NLee
@Beach femme- My friends and family fared ok through the tornadoes, some familes not so much. I've lived in Oklahoma all my life and never seen so many and so strong. Thanks for your post. 12 lbs in 17 days is awesome!!! Way to go. You should be proud of yourself girl. I do understand when the scale goes to the 1's instead of the 2"s. Just keep it up. Cycle 2 looks like you alternate days on cycle l then cycle 2. I am not having any craving for sugar at all. Thought that I would have a diet coke every once in awhile, but really don't even want it. This morning my granddaughter had a bowl of sweet cereal, it actually made me sick to my stomach when I smelled it as I was pouring it. My portions have also gotten smaller, just get full and satisfied and stop eating, never done that. My peace each day come from the Lord, so all is good here. Please remember the Hamil family, lost 2 children in the tornado, they were taking cover in the bathtub, which we do when we don't have a shelter. They just found the 3 yr old today, in a pond, so sad. The mom and another sister is critical, and mom is 5 months pregnant. We are blessed girl. Have a good Memorial Weekend. I'm going to try and do a lot of activity this weekend, including cleaning house, lol. I'm honored to have you as a diet partner.
posted May 26th, 2011 2:50 pmNLee
@Dixiejet- Awesome girl for you and your mom. THis is day 11, cycle 1 for me also, but I am only weighing once a week, so that will be next monday. I am so amazed also that I do not have cravings. Enjoying my meals, so satisfied that I'm not hungry in between meals, drinking lots of H2O. Just need to get my activity up, I will, just trying to get used to the plan first, I guess, lol. Keep up the good work ladies. Thanks for posting, it encourages me to keep going.
posted May 26th, 2011 2:41 pmDixiejet
C1D11 & so far, 8 lbs in 10 days! My 75 yr old Mom is on it,too & has gone from 149 to 138,so she's lost a lb a day ! This is so AWESOME !! I don't EVEN crave sweets,at all, first time in my life . I think what I will do is do C1 & C2 till I drop the majority of the weight then go on to C3 & C4....has anyone else done that ? I still have about 55-60 lbs to lose...60 depends on how comfortable I feel after 55...grin
posted May 26th, 2011 2:26 pmbeachfemme
+@NLee Oh my dear I've been keeping up with the news on that, please stay safe! I can't imagine the feeling, find some time even just 5 minutes for a little peace in your day it can make it that much better. Please just remember to stay safe and keep us updated.
posted May 25th, 2011 10:24 pmYour weight loss is great so far, only 8 more days you can push through. I feel exactly the same way I constantly have the urge to weigh in but if I only do it on D7 and D17 I feel like the results satisfy me way more and I have that much more motivation to push to the goal.
Great news today was C1D17, moving on to C2 in the morning and I lost another 6 pounds. Adding up to a total weight loss of 12 pounds on cycle one. I really can't believe it. I'm aiming for 6-8 lbs on (each cycle) C2 and C3 because weight loss will decrease but I am so satisfied. I actually cried when the scale read 198 I can't remember the last time I saw a 1 instead of a 2 as the 1st numeral on the scale.
Just drives me to keep moving, and you should as well.
Glad to have you as my diet partner,
Liz
NLee
@ Miss Patti- your story about WW is my own, except I need to lose more than 30 lbs. My SIL told me about this plan and I am on Cycle 1 day 10 and loving it. After 7 days lost 5.5. I agree that this is a healthy plan, I also have had no cravings. The first few days I think I was detoxing from the sugars/diet coke and felt horrible, but feeling great now. Good luck. We can do this!!
posted May 25th, 2011 1:08 pmMiss Patti
I am a lifetime member of WW.. For the past 11/2 year I have tried to lose 30 lbs. One week take off 1-2 lbs , next week put on 1-2 lbs.WW is good but I cannot do the points because you can eat ANYTHING but in moderation. I cannot control sweets and ice cream.
posted May 25th, 2011 1:25 amI saw my friend in the store and she told me she lost 25 lbs. she told me how. Came home and went right to Amazon and ordered the book. I am on day 8. I love the program because it is so easy to follow. No cravings for sweets or ice cream. I wish he would tell the portion size of a turkey burger. Very good diet because it is easy and HEALTHY.
NLee
@ E. Giordano- Congrat's on your weight loss and in 8 weeks. What an encouragement this was to hear. I'm on day 9 of the 1st Cycle. First week lost 5.5. Stoked about that. Really feeling much better now, first few days not so good, detox from sugar/diet coke was the culprit I think. I have not cheated or strayed from the book either. I always try not to, so I can see if what the book says really works. So far so good. Hope you will keep posting. So encouraging to hear about others views. Keep going strong....
posted May 25th, 2011 12:15 amNLee
@Beachfemme- Thanks for your post, I would love to be a buddy. This is day 9 in cycle 1 for me. Doing OK. I am not going to weigh except on the start of a new week and of course day 17 of each cycle. Sometimes I get really curious and want to weigh everyday, however it also makes me crazy if I don't see a loss, so I do better to stay off the scale except once a week. My first week lost 5.5. Today we were dodging tornadoes in Oklahoma, so it was stressful and I was not at home for my evening meal, but my daughter had salad and turkey so I managed to do OK. Is tomorrow the end of cycle 1 for you? Good luck. I have to always remember that I did not put the weight on in a short time, so it will take a while to get it off. I'm still very excited about this plan. It's how I should have been eating anyway. Let me know how you do tomorrow.... Thanks for being my buddy and encourager.....
posted May 25th, 2011 12:09 ambeachfemme
+@NLee that's probably the smartest idea. I'll just play it by the book till I really know what I'm doing.
posted May 24th, 2011 11:29 pmMaybe we can be diet buddies to keep each other motivated and on track?
How's your progress so far? The big weigh in is tomorrow, terribly frightened and excited all at once Cycle 2 here I come.
Keep truckin,
Liz
NLee
@Beachfemme- Congrat's on your weight loss too. Sounds like you and I have about the same amount to lose. We can do this. As far as your question about the cycles, you can do what you want, but I know that I am going to do it like the book says, at least the first time, then after I start on C1 again, I may tweek it, but probably won't. Just my opinion. Maybe you will get some more views. Keep up the good work!!!
posted May 23rd, 2011 11:00 pmNLee
@Kayla- congrat's on your weight loss. I agree this is not so much a diet , but a healthy way to eat!!! Keep up the good work.
posted May 23rd, 2011 10:58 pmE. Giordano
I looooove this diet! I lost 30lbs in only 8 weeks and I feel wonderful! I have more energy, less stomach issues and fit back into all my "skinny" clothes. I highly reccommend the diet to anyone who has a significant amount of weight to lose because you can do it safely AND quickly. But you must follow the diet. No substitutions, no cheating. You will be glad you stuck with it. I sure am!!!!
posted May 23rd, 2011 10:13 pmThank you, Dr. Mike!!!!!
beachfemme
+Hey guys! I just wanted to congratulate you all on your weight loss so far whether it be 5lbs or 100lbs everyone is doing great!
posted May 23rd, 2011 3:42 pmI myself am 17 years old and have always packed extra pounds. Always feeling groggy lazy and tired ever since I got onto the 17DD I no longer have any chest/back/knee pains and I just feel so much more energetic. I finally feel like I'm taking my life back from the food I let hold me down.
I am at C1D15 (only 2 more days of cycle1) it's been fantastic. I started at 210lbs and on D7 I weighed in at 204lbs !!
Down a full 6 pounds I was so proud of myself.
The next time I weigh in is D17 as I only weigh myself on D7 and D17 of each cycle. To not stress myself out, every weigh in I'll be back with more results.
These numbers encourage me to keep going with a total of 60lbs+ too lose and get that bikini body 140-145. I am setting short term goals of 20lbs and for every 20 I get a treat (ex. body parfume) and at the last 20lbs a grand shopping trip.
It would be a dream for me to loose that 60 by the end of august.
My curiosity is with repeating cycles:
I know Dr.Mike recommends going in the order C1,C2,C3 (repeat till goal is reached) then C4.
But I love C1 so much C2 foods look that much more appetizing.
-Would it be fine for me to do my process as C1,C2,C1,C2,C3,C4?
-Or is it better to do C1,C2,C3, C1,C2,C3,C4?
-Also on C2 instead of eating the Power Cookie can I eat a Protein Bar?
This diet is amazing,
Liz
Kayla
+This diet is so easy to to follow. There are plenty of meals suggested for you in the book, and there are even great recipes in the back for you to try. The thing I like most about this diet is that it's not really a diet at all...it's a healthy eating guide. This year, I couldn't figure out why I was going to the gym 3-4 times a week and not gaining a pound. After reading this book, it became very clear - I was eating nothing but crap. After switching my diet to fruits, vegetables, healthy proteins and WATER (something I had been neglecting big time), I have lost 5 pounds in the first 6 days (and haven't been to the gym once). I have a friend who has lost 8 pounds in the first week as well, and our starting weights were 20-30 pounds apart. The 17 minute exercise plan is completely reasonable. This book has helped me get back on track with my eating and I feel great. As the diet progresses, you begin to reintroduce carbs (bread, pasta etc.) and red meats, so you are not on a restricted diet for the rest of your life - just a healthy one.
posted May 23rd, 2011 3:06 pmI definitely reccomend.
NLee
Starting 2nd week on plan, down 5.5 lbs. feeling awesome. Kicking up the activity this week, first week did not do the walking. Ready to do this. No cravings, not hungry in between meals. Eating a lot of veggies, trying to be creative and not get bored.
posted May 23rd, 2011 8:12 amnina
+C1D7 - lost 4.4 lbs so far !!!! I'm SO excited. I used to eat a lot of junk food and whenever I would "eat right" on my own to lose weight, I would have major withdrawal (cravings and massive headaches). I was extremely surprised that I had neither. No cravings ... no headaches. I have lots to lose, but I'm setting my goals in small increments (10 lbs at a time), that way the goals are easier to achieve. I'm SO glad that my neighbor told me about this program.
posted May 23rd, 2011 7:11 am