Well, Good Morning America! The Fast Diet is now on sale in the States, and – incredibly – has immediately shot to number 2 in the Amazon book charts. We’ve been waiting a while to get the Intermittent Fasting message to a wider, international audience – and this marks the beginning of that project. Michael has been on ABC’s Good Morning America today (among other things, he served up some of the recipes from our new cookbook), and The New York Times is set to run a comprehensive feature on the Fast Diet this coming Sunday.
So, a warm welcome to you all. We hope you like what you see, and that your experiences will mirror the success stories we’ve been hearing here since the New Year. We’re fascinated to learn how the Fast Diet format will translate to other territories, and hope that a new American audience will discover the simplicity and benefits of the 5:2 method, as so many of us in the UK have done. Please let us know how your fasting days go – keep us in the loop.
103 Comments
11:53 am
1 Mar 13
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I saw the bit on ABC Nightline website about 5:2, hopefully it will help get a few more Americans on board as I’m sure it will do a lot of people a lot of good. Here’s the ABC Nightline report:
http://abcnews.go.com/Nightline/video/controversial-fast-diet-instructs-days-fasting-18625404
They used my before & after photos (that’s my waist with the jeans which are way too big!) as well as those of various other Facebook users.
Welcome, America, to this revolutionary way of life!
2:17 pm
1 Mar 13
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I have just bought the book and will start the diet soon. Please, wish me luck. I have only one stone which I need to reduce but it is very difficult. Is it true that sometimes it easier to loose weight if one has considerably more than a stone to reduce? I am not proud of my lack of will power.
7:09 pm
1 Mar 13
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Is there any hope of the horizon program being shown in the US or available on US-compatible CD?
7:28 pm
1 Mar 13
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You could download the programme as a torrent
7:38 pm
1 Mar 13
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i have absolutely no idea what a torrent is
8:36 pm
1 Mar 13
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Neither do I lol-that’s what husbands are for! Seriously, if you know someone who knows how to download stuff then you should be able to find it.
10:21 pm
1 Mar 13
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It surprises me that my comment, which mentions a site listed in the helpful links page, as well as linking to a (non-pirate, officially published) news video which Dr Mosley stars in hasn’t been approved and yet the messages promoting the use of peer-to-peer file sharing (torrents) have been approved
12:00 am
2 Mar 13
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found it here. absolutely wonderful!!!
[deleted due to copyright issues]
8:48 am
3 Mar 13
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Hi everyone, especially to our new American audience. Two pieces of great news – The Fast Diet has gone to Number One on Amazon.com in the States (thank you – we are now Number One in UK and US simultaneously!)… and Michael’s ‘Eat, Fast, Live Longer’ programme is due to be shown on PBS on April 3 (apologies to all who have had trouble finding it online).
Will now celebrate with a chocolate croissant (#notafastday!)
11:05 am
3 Mar 13
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Brilliant! I’m still doing this after six months and maintaining .. 5:2 has changed my life .. Thanks Dr M and Mimi x
6:51 pm
4 Mar 13
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Just found out about this, but it sounds like a plan i can work with, having fasted as a weight loss plan years ago. Will give it a try, Right now i am at my highest weight ever, and not happy about it.
9:24 pm
4 Mar 13
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Happy that this is starting to pick up speed here in the USA! Reading the book today and tomorrow is fast day number one!
2:21 am
5 Mar 13
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I got the book Thursday night on my kindle starting reading that night and then more on Friday. By Sunday was ready to start my first fast. I loved the advice to go 2-2. Worked great for me; ready to see the benefits of this program.
2:30 pm
5 Mar 13
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Definitely noticing an influx of Americans into the forums, great to have so many international users and to know that the word is spreading far and wide about 5:2
6:44 pm
5 Mar 13
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I just read about The Fast Diet in Sunday’s NYT magazine. Good timing as I was about to brew up a batch of magical leek soup for a two day fast, but this sounds so much more sustainable. I am 55 and perimenopausal and my highest weight ever. I feel terrible.All my attempts to lose are not working. This plan seems so doable and sustainable in the long run. Can’t wait to get my hands on a copy of the book. Even my husband is willing to give this a try with me. I started yesterday. My first fast day went well. I know this is going to work.
5:12 pm
6 Mar 13
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Go for it phatgurlnomo. It seems to be making a huge difference to people’s lives over here – some quickly, some more slowly, so definitely give it time. And do let us know how you get on
3:38 pm
7 Mar 13
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Hi, I just started this week and already seeing amazing results. I wanted to see if you know of any downside to using coconut oil in the diet during the fast days as long as the calories don’t exceed the 600 limit?
3:58 pm
7 Mar 13
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By the way, will the “Horizon” show be on in the US? Thanks.
4:07 pm
7 Mar 13
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Hi Katrina, welcome aboard! The Horizon show is due to be shown on PBS on April 3rd.
Dennis – personally, I really like cooking with coconut oil. It’s slower to oxidise and less damaged by heat than other cooking oils. It’s also a good source of ‘heart-healthy medium-chain fatty acids’ – so a good one for a Fast Day (in limited quantity and within calorie budget, of course). I haven’t heard of any downsides, though it is quite expensive. I use Fushi virgin coconut oil, but sure there are other versions available in the States.
9:22 pm
7 Mar 13
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Hi. I asked this question yesterday but it disappeared.
I just saw this diet in the NYT. I’ve been on the HCG diet for 8 weeks and lost 15 pounds. It’s only 500 calories EVERY SINGLE DAY! So this diet looks like heaven. I’m only worried that the FAST diet won’t work because I’ve already been super fasting. Can you comment? Should I do something different? Thanks
1:09 am
8 Mar 13
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Also. I have an ipad not kindle or nook so I can’t download the book. Amazon is saying it might not deliver until April or may. Is there another way to download it?
3:39 am
8 Mar 13
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Lollyzam, I have an iPad as well. Download the free Kindle app for iPad and you should have no trouble getting the Kindle book. I bought it and read it over the weekend. My husband and I completed our first fast on Monday and our second fast today (Thursday). I’m looking forward to results on the scale but can already tell a difference in how my clothes fit. The fasting is very doable
. I’ve exercised on both fast days, just kept a steady but minimal pace. We are feeling great! Due to travel, I will fast on Monday and Wednesday next week. I love the flexibility!
9:18 am
8 Mar 13
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I’m on my second fast day and it went even better than the first day. I have to leave most of my calories till evening as I am a snack glutton at night…so I can’t be “starving” at night. Wonder when Dr. Oz (here in the US) will be talking about this diet?
Seem to have lost 4 pounds this first week…even if it’s water..I’m grateful!
4:24 pm
8 Mar 13
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Thanks, Susan. I’ll do that today. I’m still hoping to hear from Mimi Spenser re my switching to FEWER fast days on this diet.
7:35 pm
8 Mar 13
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I started the diet this week, even downloaded to book on my Kindle to read. So far it is easy. I do have a question, can you drink diet sodas on the fast days? I know they slow down the process of loosing weight, but can you have them?
10:10 pm
8 Mar 13
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I saw the FastDiet featured on Good Morning America. It caught my attention immediately! Out of stock at Barnes…I downloaded it on my Kindle and watched the Horizon program online. I was sold when the possibility of dementia could be decreased. My Dad at the young age of 59 has Pick’s Dementia and is in a nursing home. His dad suffered from this disease as well as his sister who is only 61 yrs old.
My husband and I finished our second fast day yesterday. I am amazed at the energy I have during the fast days. It is not terribly difficult but is mildly challenging. I’ve done weight watchers over and over and this is so much easier…it’s only one day!
Many of my friends are interested to see how we do. So far, I feel like my belly has gone down. My Hubby’s blood pressure is down 10+ points, systolic and diastolic.
My Hubby has been drinking diet soda during the day. I limit myself to a small glass if I need it.
1:23 am
9 Mar 13
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Hi! Writing from the States! Got the book, read it, and am losing after my first week.
Will the cookbook be available in the States as well? I notice it’s available on amazon UK, but not amazon US.
3:18 pm
9 Mar 13
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I am loving this way of living. The “fast” days are not a problem and there are so many recipes to create which work. Looking for the cookbook too!
http://www.lifeinthefastdiet.blogspot.com
3:22 pm
9 Mar 13
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Reply to Lollyzam: I have done the HCG diet also. It is short term weight loss. I lost a lot of weight and spent a lot of money on it but the weight comes back. I’m convinced that the FastDiet can become a way of life and that is what I’ve been searching for. You can make the transition. Katrina5
http://www.lifeinthefastdiet.blogspot.com
4:01 pm
9 Mar 13
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Good to hear that. Do you think I should just jump right in? Any time I go off HCG for a day I gain weight and it takes 3 days to get back where I started. Should I reduce calories on the non-fast days? I appreciate your help.
10:02 pm
10 Mar 13
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Hi inspirit and Katrina – YES – the cook book will be coming out in the States too. Probably a short time after the UK publication, dates have yet to be confirmed.
Hi Lollyzam – you’re right that the basis of the Fast Diet is very different from HCG. As you say, it is much more flexible, and only requires a calorie reduction for two days a week. There shouldn’t be any trouble going from one to the other, but if you’re concerned – as with any concerns you may have about intermittent fasting – do consult your doctor. It seems to me that you’ll find the Fast Diet a breeze! Good luck and let us know how it goes.
10:22 pm
10 Mar 13
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It would be nice if the US cookbook is in ounces, not grams. It’s a little confusing to figure portions.
12:46 am
11 Mar 13
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Can someone tell me if you can drink diet sodas on off days? In the book, it didn’t say not too but it didn’t list it either. It only list tea and coffee.
12:46 am
11 Mar 13
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Oops, I mean fast days not off days.
1:55 pm
11 Mar 13
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Hi, folks if u just google the programme’s title, u may be pleasantly surprised by what u find… “Eat, fast and live longer”
Over a stone since mid January, so two thirds of the way to my target weight! Resisting the temptation to buy new clothes as I’m not quite there yet! But already struggling with jeans that are falling off me and I’ve had to make 2 new holes in my belt to keep them up! Fascinated by the way my taste has changed on my feast days as a result of what I eat on a fast day.
I’ve stopped smoking as part of the same process and still the weight has dropped off! Completely converted to intermittent fasting!
Cheers and good luck to anyone who wants to giving a go.
1:56 pm
11 Mar 13
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U can drink what u like on a fast day as long as its part of your calorie count for the day
2:11 pm
11 Mar 13
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Hi Sandee – I am just about to post on diet soda – will be up on the site in a couple of hours. It’s fine to have a diet soda on a Fast Day, but there are caveats. And, as Michael says, all drinks (if they contain calories) need to be included in your calorie budget.
Hi Michael – love your story. Looks like it might be new jeans for Easter? Keep us in the loop!
2:37 pm
11 Mar 13
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Will the new cookbook be available in the U.S. as well? I can’t find availability on amazon.com US.
2:38 pm
11 Mar 13
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oops sorry, you already answered. Thank you!
3:01 pm
11 Mar 13
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I lost 1.5 lbs. my first week! Fast days went by easily and quickly (I kept very busy), and I ate well on my feast days. I am definitely making this my eating lifestyle. FINALLY, a way of eating that takes off weight that I can live with. I want that cookbook NOW!
Thank you for developing this wonderful eating plan.
2:51 am
12 Mar 13
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I feel like I need to say a couple of things here, especially when this page is titled “The Fast Diet arrives in the USA”
A while ago I learned about this diet from another author, I don’t know him and I’m not affiliated with him in any way, I only read his book called “Eat Stop Eat” which you can google to find it.
In it he explains this diet but better. He explains that for the most part of our human history, we would hunt and eat then stop for a couple of days and hunt and eat again and so on, so that’s how our bodies evolved, that’s why this diet is natural and consistant with out bodies.
So our bodies are supposed to be storing fat and then burning it, not always storing fat.
A key difference however, is the few hundred calories on fast days which he says, according to his research, should be zero calories, because as soon as you eat you’re telling your body there’s food coming so it’s ok, no need to burn fat. Infact he gives the cut off time of about 18 Hours, after 18 hours of fasting (zero calories not 500-600 calories), the body will start to burn fat.
Anyway, I just wanted to point out here that this nothing new, fasting has been around for thousands of years, and there are other, here in the USA, who wrote about this 5-2 fasting diet.
2:22 pm
12 Mar 13
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We live in the US. My husband is British and he saw the New Horizon program in August. We immediately started and never looked back. We have both very steadily lost weight even over the holidays! What has surprised us is how it continues to get easier. It just seems so normal, now. Lots of our friends noticed and started as well. I bought the book as soon as it was available.
One of the things we had to learn was to shop for food accordingly. We were buying way too much food for the week. In fact, to get adjusted, we started shopping for just a day or two at a time.
Results of course, can vary, but since August I have gone from an all time high of 218 pounds to 163. I’m down four sizes.
Our expression on fasting days is “we’ll have that tomorrow.”
2:25 pm
12 Mar 13
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Thanks for posting Katoo1. Love your Fast Day motto. And four sizes down? Wow!
2:48 pm
12 Mar 13
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Initially I started with straightforward alternate day while my husband was doing 5 2. I switched to 5 2 around November. The weight loss slowed, but was still very steady. Another thing we both seemed too gravitate to a very nutritious but not calorie restricted meal choices on the day following a fast which would loosen up a bit over the weekend.
3:53 pm
12 Mar 13
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Omar, you are quite right that fasting is nothing new and has been around for millennia, part of the fabric of life for so many and in almost every major religion. No one could claim to have ‘invented’ fasting. We are big fans of Brad Pilon, who wrote the Eat Stop Eat book, and I have had happy dealings with him in the past, particularly when writing about Intermittent fasting for The Times. He does advocate no food whatsoever when ‘fasting’, but – in contrast and counter to Brad’s position – Michael’s 5:2 plan allows for limited calories on a Fast Day, expressly to make the method more adaptable and approachable for the average individual, and to echo the clinical trials done by Dr Krista Varady in Chicago. This is what we recommend and call ‘the Fast Diet’. The positions differ, but I guess we are all united in being interested in health, weight loss and well-being through occasional fasting. As you’ll see in the back of the book, we expressly recommend Brad’s work – he knows the subject inside out and writes about it in a very engaging way.
6:46 pm
12 Mar 13
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Your approach is brilliant! I had a strong feeling the fast diet would work well for me after reading about your method in the NYT (I am in US). I read the book. I am on week 2, and have already lost weight, but even better: my thinking is sharper and I am feeling very energetic! A bit of trouble with sleeping sometimes. But the fasting itself really isn’t so bad; less interaction with food seems to helps break one’s obsession with it somehow, at least for me.
11:03 pm
12 Mar 13
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Lollyzam; Regarding HCG and going off of it; when I stopped that diet, my doctor told me to keep eating the same things but to eat a bit more of them. Sadly, I then went to Italy for a month and ate more of everything! All the weight came back. The food you ate on HCG transitions nicely for FastDiet on the “fast” days. Turkey, chicken, salad, etc. You’ll make it. I’m determined that FastDiet is my lifetime way of living, not another diet. Love it! How’s it going so far?
2:54 am
13 Mar 13
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Thanks Katrina , I’m on my second day of normal eating and it’s pretty scary (but oh so wonderful). I plan to do the hcg diet on the fast days. I’ll see how it goes. Phase 3 of hcg was basically no carbs. I’m not doing that on this diet so I wonder if I will gain. I’ll let you know.
3:59 pm
13 Mar 13
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Ok, I need help!!! I am doing great on the fast days and loosing weight. However on the non fast days I am gaining back the weight I lost. I am eating normal, but something isn’t working for me. HELP!! My son’s wedding is coming up this summer and I really really want to loose weight!!
6:22 pm
13 Mar 13
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Sandee, I am in England and am about to do my 14th fast day on the 14th. I have lost weight, 7Ib but this has fluctuated, my lowest weight being a 10 Ib weight loss after about 4 weeks. (I am a 64 yr old male by the way). What I would say is do not give up. On your non fast days what do you mean by “normal eating”?. It may be that you eat far more than the recommended daily calory intake and this may push up your weight. Look at this and remember that on your non fast days do not “pig out” as we say over here but try a sensible approach and be more aware on these days. Also please do try to excercise a little at least 3 times a week. A 200 calory loss each session adds up to 600 calories a week, even walking is good.But check with your Doctor first. Good luck with the diet hope the wedding goes well for you and your families.
7:48 pm
13 Mar 13
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Regarding Omar’s post…personally I could never go without food (Eat, Stop, Eat book), that is why 5:2 is so perfect for me. Eating my 500 calories a day, twice a week, makes this plan livable for life.
That said, I’m reading everything I can on alternate day fasting, even though I know I’ll be following ONLY The Fastdiet for life. Dr. Mosley and Mimi took a wonderful concept and made it livable. Thanks to you two.
1:26 am
14 Mar 13
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sandee, like Dr. M says in his book, if you weigh yourself the day AFTER a feed day, your scale will show a weight gain. He tells you how to handle weighing in his book. It’s the downward trend over time that counts, not the day to day fluctuations.
12:58 pm
14 Mar 13
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Thanks for the help guys! I will keep you posted on my success
3:19 pm
14 Mar 13
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@Sandee step away from the scale! Of course, this comes from an habitual step-on-the-scale girl =) Weigh yourself just once a week…same day, same time, same clothes (or nekkid!) You will find more happiness in weekly weights vs daily weight (which is better for maintenance).
I lost 2lb first week…Hubby lost 2.6. I am amazed at the energy and clarity I have on fast days. Thank you, thank you for this “diet”
4:10 pm
19 Mar 13
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Heard about this on the Diane Rehm show this past Saturday, and immediately started researching it. Monday, I started the plan with my first fast. I’m a vegetarian who does not eat processed food, and could not understand why on earth I was gaining weight. Yesterday’s fast was incredibly difficult for me, and I almost threw in the towel. Today is a non-fasting day. I went to sleep last night with dreams of the huge plate of pasta I would be able to eat today. After religiously checking caloric content during my fast, the light dawned. I have been eating foods that are considered healthy, but never gave a thought to the amount of calories I was consuming. That was a shocker! Instead of immediately leaping out of bed to eat a big meal, I made a cup of tea and had 1/2 cup of yogurt with 1/2 banana. The fact that I don’t have to censor myself today means there is no pressure or feeling of guilt. Instead of that fact making me binge, it’s helping me decide that I don’t actually want as much food. I’m listening to my body for a change!
10:29 pm
19 Mar 13
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The 5:2 Intermittent fasting was originally introduced by Prophet Mohammed, this is what Dr. Mosley confirm, and he is highly appreciated being fair and frank. Besides the obligatory Fasting Month of Ramadan, prophet Mohammed used to do some other regular voluntary fasting including the two days a week fasting (Mondays-Thursdays) all year long.
Though, When Prophet Mohammed was asked about the best fasting, he answered ” The best fasting is the fasting of Prophet David” which is the alternate day fasting(fasting every second day)..So, though he followed the 5:2 fasting diet , he proposed that the alternate day fasting as the best. But, it seems, it is too heavy for the people to follow. So, this is why he might preferred to follow the first. By the way, Dr. Mosley almost had the same experience as it appears in his documentary
The Islamic fasting includes abstaining from all drinks and food from the dawn to sun set which is almost 12-16 hours. Unlike Dr. Mosley diet, Muslim are recommended to eat regular meals before and after fast. Regarding breaking the fast, prophet Muhammad used to start with a considerable amount of water alone or plus 3 dates, and then have the major meal after around 40 minutes (he used to attend the Sunset ritual prayer before the major meal). Muslims are also recommended to have a nap during the fasting day.
Not only this, Prophet Mohammed also followed and instructed a restricted calorie diet, as it is shown in his following statements( my own translation):
“we are nation (Muslims) that don’t eat until we are hungry, and whenever we eat we never get full (satisfied(”
“the son of Adam would have never fill a vessel worse than his stomach”
He also tells that:
“Stomach is the home of disease, and Regime(diet) is the key of medication”
2:33 pm
21 Mar 13
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I read some nasty press in U.S. People mag (on-line) about 5:2. Of course I gave them my snippy retort.
It’s times like this I wish I lived in the U.K.! I’m losing weight for the first time in 20 years. I can’t even begin to tell you what a feeling that is. This is it for me, for life. Can’t wait for the cookbook to be released here.
I sure hope it catches on over here like it has in Europe.
1:45 pm
23 Mar 13
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i’m from the usa in pa female. a 6th day of intermittent fasting has passed mon-frid lost 10 lbs yay! i’m so glad i came across this. i’m type 2 diabetic had blood test done all results were lower yay yay yay!! dr is watching. still have 2 take meds 4 cholesterol & h blood pressure etc. any other diet was not working and no fun. i only weigh myself after 2 fast days only. on non-fast days it is hard 2 eat what u use 2. ur body does not need or want it u are eating 1200-1400 & sometimes lower. when u could eat more u don’t want 2 weird but cool. the usda gov site helps it tracks everything. never realized how much i use 2 eat. now i really enjoy the treats i give myself on non-fast days like the 8 dorito nacho cheese chips have not bought those in years
3:04 pm
24 Mar 13
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I have low carbed for nearly 6 weeks and was kind of stuck. I did the “fast diet” way, sticking to my low carb, but eating way way less – only around 600 calories, and in five days, lost another 3.5 pounds. I had been losing nothing for weeks before trying it. I will continue this eating style. What I like is knowing I can sort of go back to ‘normal’ the following day, so feeling a little hungry two days a week isn’t so bad. My waistbands really like it too!
6:36 pm
24 Mar 13
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I’ve been eating lunch and dinner on fast days instead of breakfast/dinner. Can I have a bit of 2% milk in coffee (1 tablespoon?) and still consider the morning a fast?
3:44 pm
26 Mar 13
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Started yesterday with my husband , not a bad day at all, today will make healthy
Choices and perhaps a glass of wine, woke up not very hungry,but…….feeling
Good we would both like to lose 10 pounds and keep it as a life style!!!!
Will keep all posted!!!
GOOD LUCK TO ALL
California
4:12 pm
26 Mar 13
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@california: good luck from pa. what did u both have ur first day of fast?
2:50 am
28 Mar 13
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Just did my 2nd fast day…is it ok to “work down” to 500 calories? I just have a hard tome eating less than about 650. Today was easier, but still not at 500. I worked out today – burned about 330 calories. Do I deduct that from what I’m consuming? Thanks for any insight!
1:31 pm
2 Apr 13
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Michael and Mimi, Thanks!
I have just started the 5:2 (actually I do a 4:3) and find the program very easy to follow. Nothing like an induction phase, what to eat and not eat or always counting calories. I too have seen some negative press but little proof that the program is harmful. I know that everyone is different and what is good for one may not be good for another.
I have noticed that I tend to make better choices now that I am on the program (as far as food!). 2 times that I don’t want to give up are caffeine and alcohol.
I usually do 2 meals on fast days. The noon meal is mostly a pop in the oven diet dinner of between 200 and 300 calories and finish with a nice salad with low cal dressing.
Again, thanks
3:36 am
3 Apr 13
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Ditto the thanks to Michael and Mimi! I am an American living in Japan and first read about the diet in the NY Times. I purchased the book on amazon.co.jp. Like sierratee, I’m also starting with 4:3 instead of 5:2. I wouldn’t say it is easy to follow, but I’ve managed to stick with it so far. After only 1.5 weeks, I’ve already seen inches come off my waist.
1:14 pm
3 Apr 13
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diet and exercise beginning at 10 pm tonight. The programs, part of PBS’ “Exploration Wednesdays,” follow Dr. Michael Mosley of Britain.
2:59 pm
3 Apr 13
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Hello UK! I bought the book (Kindle) following the GMA segment (this just seems to make such good sense to me) and had my first fast day two days ago. It was a snap! Actually looking forward to my next fasting day as I do like that lighter feeling I have. I think I might rather forego eating all together on fasting days and stick to hydrating on those days. Thank you Michael and Mimi for sharing your research and your experience. I am hopeful that this becomes my new way of eating.
3:47 pm
3 Apr 13
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Good morning!
I have completed 4 weeks on 5:2 and have lost 7.5 lbs. I am thrilled! As a woman in menopause I have not been able to lose this much in such a short time in YEARS.
In case it hasn’t been mentioned, The FastDiet made #1 on the New York Times bestseller list, hard cover Advice section.
I am so happy to find a diet I can make a lifestyle and live with forever. Much thanks and gratitude to the authors of this book. I look forward to the cookbook hitting U.S. shores.
6:42 pm
4 Apr 13
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@Wiltidnr
Our fast consisted of soup!!
Today is our 4th fast much easier,
Having 5oz of chicken & spinach for dinner, can’t wait
Will weigh in tomorrow
6:47 pm
4 Apr 13
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@Wiltl
May I ask what your goal is 10 lbs in 6 weeks is fantastic!!
Congratulations!!!
Keep up the good work
California
11:23 pm
4 Apr 13
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@california: i have a long way to go. when i was diagnosed w/ type 2 i was slim size 4 @ 150lbs then i started gaining weight up to 218.no energy @ all. luckily with this diet now i’m 207 lbs since march 2 2013.allot of energy. i will only weigh myself once a month. it drives you crazy when u see a gain. so far it is going lower
. i just made a butternut squash soup on fast day and pea soup. i’m going to go ur way, soup. what was ur soup? i have a hard time figuring out what to eat. if you go to the rachel ray site a viewer tried this diet she does her non fast day very differently. what r ur goals? Wish u both continued success!
11:33 pm
4 Apr 13
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@Joyce Coffeehead so so true. wish the cook book was here
is there an american forum w/ recipes so we could exchange them? or is there someone who is a technical guru would create one.
12:40 am
5 Apr 13
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@Joyce Coffeehead: forgot to say congrats!!!!
4:27 pm
5 Apr 13
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Thank you so much! I don’t know of any American forum, I belong to the international 5:2 forum and am really enjoying it! People from all over the world – Italy, UK, etc. are logging in. This way of eating is taking over the world! ha ha!
Let me know if you need the link.
4:28 pm
5 Apr 13
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P.S. I weigh in again on Monday. I feel so much lighter! And I just eat what I want on feed days!
Michael and Mimi, so very grateful for your book!
5:18 pm
5 Apr 13
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I would like to add that an official Fastdiet forum would be very nice, kind of like Weight Watchers has their own “official” website with forums. I hope it’s in the works.
9:03 pm
5 Apr 13
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@ coffeehead & california: The complete full video is on pbs now & will expire. it is called Eat, Fast and Live Longer with Michael Mosley. next wk will be The Truth About Exercise with Michael Mosley i’m really curious about that. it’s nice that he became the guinea pig w/ all these docs monitoring him.instead of an infomercial.i love this (little effort lifestyle diet). thanks again mimi and michael. it was cool re-watching this video today. i got home early i only drank water all day and am going to have a 500 cal dinner @ 7pm this is a big change. will weigh @ end of month to c if this worked. send me the link it is not the uk one is it? yes just weight watchers ur so right.
9:17 pm
5 Apr 13
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@california: u will not take long to take off 15lbs if that’s all u need to do .just do what mosley is doing one fast day a wk to stay healthy. i was too curious had to weigh myself since i only drank water all day down to 206 lbs yay that means since 3/2/2013 12 lbs. what a great feeling.:) not irritated in fact i have more energy.
8:47 pm
8 Apr 13
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7th day and loving it. Bad knee arthritis feels great, skin really healthy even the hair is healthier I am at my infamous plateau of 200lbs @ 6’2″ have lost 15 lbs which a part of was the Warrior Diet concept but like this far more and really want to get exercising on fast days but nervous…Bike 10-20 mi. swim 1/2 to a 1 mi or stand up paddle or surf for a coupla hours. Obviously not on the same day but would love to hear from anyone that may have that level of exercise and find out how your feeling and how your body has responded.Thanks Mimi and Michael this could be the lifelong answer I have been desperatley searching for.
2:02 pm
9 Apr 13
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I was so excited to finally see Michael’s show on PBS in the US this past weekend. And USA FastDieters, Amazon will ship Mimi’s FastDiet Cookbook starting June 4th. You can preorder now. Cheers!
2:04 pm
9 Apr 13
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Note: Lollyzam: I use half & half (1 tblsp) in my morning coffee. But you have to count it as part of the 250 breakfast. The kind I use has 35 calories per two tablespoons. It’s one of those daily pleasures I can’t give up. K
1:04 am
11 Apr 13
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I decided to try the fast/feed after watching MM on PBS and already look forward to my fast days. I don’t have a lot of weight to lose, but was interested in the other benefits. What I have noticed is I feel more awake, aware, and upbeat on my fast days. The only downfall is I am hungry when I go to bed and have difficulty staying asleep. Does anyone else find this?
2:20 pm
11 Apr 13
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Good morning everyone!
I have other members of my family on this plan, and I am starting today. I’m very excited to begin this journey. I feel I’ve found a plan that finally “clicks.” I have the book and now the cookbook on pre-order.
My fast day is today. Lots of tea with milk always keeps me full and satisfied. My main meal will be a protein shake toward evening, plus some additional stuff to equal 500 calories.
4:05 pm
11 Apr 13
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Michigangirl, today is my first day starting 5:2, but another member of my family saves most of their calories for evening. I’m going to do that too, because if I don’t eat at bedtime, I can’t go to sleep. It’s been my habit for years, and I’m not going to break it now! So I’m going to drink a lot of tea with milk (counting calories in the milk) during the day. Tea with milk really fills me up, so this will work well. Then I’ll have the majority of my calories toward evening.
Is there a beverage you like that can fill you up? I’m also taking fiber to keep me full. Dr. Oz recommends a fiber called Glucomannan, so I’m starting that today as well.
I’m determined to make this work for me!
5:59 pm
11 Apr 13
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Hi from Atlanta GA! I’m in my 3rd week on the Fast Diet and absolutely LOVE it! I’ve lost 5-6 lbs and can’t believe how good I feel. Maybe it’s my imagination, but my mood is better, I’ve had no headaches (normally 2-3 a week)and even though the pollen count is off the charts here, I haven’t as much as sneezed! Would love to hear if anyone else has noticed this wonderful “side effect” or if it’s just psychosomatic?!? Thank you Dr. Moseley – if I could, I would give you a big hug (It’s a southern thing – we can’t help it)
6:16 pm
11 Apr 13
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Hello, I’m a rather staid and reserved 63-year-old woman writing from a still-chilly Britain in Springtime – the daffodils are JUST starting to burst forth but they are yearning for some sunshine. It’s so much fun being in contact with the energy and enthusiasm of – can I say ‘all you folk’ without sounding condescending? – all you folk in America! Thanks for that and all best wishes to all newcomers to the forum.
8:03 pm
11 Apr 13
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Hi Jeanius, I’m in California, U.S., and I can just imagine how lovely the daffodils look.
Michelle, to answer your question, I am starting today, but another member of my family started a few weeks ago, and yes, they feel much better, both mentally and physically. I’ve been told some folks actually feel better on their fasting days than on their feed days. Wow! I sure wouldn’t mind that! I am halfway into my fasting day, and so far so good.
1:11 am
12 Apr 13
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just watched online @ pbs The Truth About Exercise with Michael Mosley wow i’m going to combine it w/ this intermittent fast lifestyle. i don’t have a stationary bike. wonder what i could replace it w/ michael or mimi?
1:38 am
13 Apr 13
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Wiltl – I watched the exercise show today as well and wondered if anyone else is doing it along with the diet, or are planning to. I’m starting tomorrow using an elliptical machine, but I assume you could do anything – even jump rope or do sprints? I did have a trainer once that recommended sprints instead of jogging/long distance running. He said to think about what a marathon runners body looks like compared to an olympic sprinter whose muscles are so much more defined. Only problem is I felt a little silly sprinting down the street lol
11:19 pm
13 Apr 13
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Hi…need some advice. Haven’t lost anything yet, but I don’t have a lot to lose. Maybe 5-10lbs. Not sure what I’m doing wrong. Another question – when working out on a fast day and burning approx 250 calories, is it ok to consume that amount in addition to the 500 calories? Any advice is appreciated. Thx
10:06 pm
15 Apr 13
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@Remi2012. that is what i have, an elliptical with no hand stand. fell off going 2 fast. going to move a bed behind it. maybe sprint up my stairs or hill. good luck keep in touch w/ the combo. u gave good ideas
9:48 pm
22 Apr 13
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lavenderlilacs, The nighttime hunger is getting better! I am trying to eat dinner a little later, and discovered, as you have, hot tea really helps. My favorite is an organic apple cinnamon with a tiny sprinkle of stevia I got from Whole Foods. Best of luck to you with the 5:2!
9:54 pm
22 Apr 13
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sarahbuz, I also don’t have a lot to lose but so far (knock, knock) it’s been almost a pound a fast day. When the going gets tough, remember the other benefits you’re getting (you may not get those by adding burned calories to your 500/day, but I don’t know for sure) – that helps me to stick strictly to it. It’s only a day, you can eat tomorrow:)
3:49 pm
27 Apr 13
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Well my husband and I have only been on diet 2 weeks but so far so good, doesn’t feel like a diet at all and very surprised that the fast days are nowhere near as hard as I expected (i usually have no will power!). I am only a couple of pounds overweight, but for me I am heavier than when I was 9 months pregnant with my 2 boys! My husband has a lot more to loose, ideally 5 stone, but he has done exceptionally well, 6lbs week one and 5lbs week 2, overall I have lost 4lbs but am really chuffed. Just got the fast diet recipe book this morning from amazon and it looks really useful, the soups look delicious and can’t believe how low cal they are.
1:22 am
6 May 13
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Congrats to all who have already lost weight from the fastdiet approach! I’m only on my 2nd wk, but it’s going well so far. 3rd fast day was easiest yet. I mainly wanted to try this lifestyle eating approach to lower my cholesterol which is naturally sky high no matter what I eat. I haven’t see any posts about people who have had their cholesterol tested after being on this for a few months (other than Dr. Mosley). My BMI is normal range and I would like to only lose 5-10 lbs. Anyone had cholesterol improvements yet? Of course, I’m hoping for the other health benefits mentioned in the book & tv report.
11:36 pm
6 May 13
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Sarahbuz; I wouldn’t think you’d want to “make up” the calories you burn during exercise. I feel much better when I exercise on fast days. And I usually do 60 minutes on the Elliptical machine. That’s about 600 calories. I do admit to feeling a bit lightheaded if I stand up fast later in the day but exercising on a fast day is a big “kickstart”.
11:51 pm
8 May 13
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I really believe the 5:2 approach will work for me and I have already shared information with 2 co-workers and they are excited to try it also. I just began yesterday and I am still reading the US version of the book – yesterday wasn’t too hard so I am happy to continue on. Thanks again
3:47 pm
9 May 13
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I have just completed my 30th fast day and scales show a weight loss of 16Lb. As a 64yr old male my BMI is still in the obese range but coming down. I did not have my blood and cholesterol checks done before I started this “Lifestyle” diet but have just had them done. I have some worries over them but hopefully because of my diet these will improve. Triglycerides, and LDL cholesterol are both borderline high. HDL readings on the low side and combined cholesterol reading is 5.4. I have a 25% Cardiac Risk. Blood pressure is in the healthy range. I know that I have to keep working on improving these readings and that sticking to my fasting days will help. Having done a little bit of research I am more aware of healthier foods to eat on my non fast days so this will also help. I also go to the gym doing cardio vascular workouts 3 times a week.
I live in England but hope you all over the “pond” have success with this. Good luck to you all
4:36 pm
9 May 13
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Hello, Couscous – I love your name, your consistently sensible and positive comments and your commitment to improving your own health and well-being using the 5:2 approach. Bravo, you, for doing so well – and long may you reap all the great benefits and results from your efforts.
5:16 pm
9 May 13
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Actually, Jeanius you’re the one with the perfect name! Thank you for your wise posts on this site. You always get the message right. It’s great to have such loyal voices who really understand the Fast Diet and all it can offer. We love your input, thank you!
5:35 pm
9 May 13
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Hot, red cheeks, Mimi, but thanks very much for your very kind comments! Such great, good news about your Dad’s achievements – no wonder you are so chuffed. I’m very pleased for him and for you.
5:30 am
19 May 13
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My husband is a type 2 diabetic who is not greatly over weight. Is it safe for him to fast or should his fasting day be spread over the whole day rather than breakfast and dinner. He gets low blood sugar with too much exercise and not enough food.
6:43 pm
19 May 13
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Hi, quilter – I know very little about diabetes but found that if I did an online search for ‘intermittent fasting and diabetes’ all sorts of interesting articles and forums came up, including contributions from diabetics following a low-carb approach (That was on ‘Jimmy Moore’s Livin La Vida Low-Carb’ – see his livinlowcarbdiscussion.com/forum if you’re interested.)
Apropos of nothing in particular and very un-PC, this quote from a contributor on that forum made me laugh in all its silliness: “Never eat more than you can lift.”—Miss Piggy