Dr Hilary Jones MBBS
GP and resident doctor for ITV's breakfast programme, GMTV
Obesity is a growing national problem. The latest National Diet and Nutrition survey on adults aged 19 - 64 found that a quarter of men are obese, and a further 42% are overweight. One in five women are obese and a further 32% are overweight. With the associated health risks, now is a crucial time for us to take notice and find an attractive yet simple strategy that is practical and achievable. On reading these pages, I think Az and Nina have created a programme that not only encompasses good healthy eating advice, but also offers you a balanced, simple approach to choosing your favourite foods whilst the weight sheds off slowly and steadily.
The GI Plan provides a flexible, realistic and forgiving approach to dieting. It is not about avoiding foods, but simply eating what you like within healthy boundaries - and it even allows for those occasional naughty bites and moments when you really need comfort food. Inspirational and encouraging, it not only provides the motivation you need to stick to the diet, but also transforms your entire relationship with food.
Glycaemic Index (Gi) has been used in diabetes for years. The concept is not new, and the beneficial effect on blood glucose after eating low Gi foods is well documented. What's new here is the unique way that Gi has been applied to help you lose weight. The authors are well aware of the limitations of using Gi alone and so they have originated a system that incorporates the good bits of the Gi approach, within the context of overall healthy eating strategies. The healthy low Gi foods that the diet recommends make a whole lot of sense. Pasta, wholegrain cereals, beans, lentils, nuts, fruit, veg, grainy bread, basmati rice - filling not fattening. The system automatically takes into account the Gi and calorie density of foods, gives guidance on satisfying portion sizes, offers a wealth of practical tips on healthy eating, provides achievable fitness targets, gives snacking, shopping and eating out advice, and lots more.
Dietitians and doctors have tried for years to encourage people to choose balanced foods in limited quantities so that they can achieve a healthy weight. You just need to look around you to see that it's not working. This simple point-counting system with its dietary guidelines offers a novel, down-to-earth, achievable and sustainable programme all rolled into one. It's about eating, not guilt. It's about lifestyle change, not a quick fix. It's about success through the right carbs, not missing out on your favourite carbs.
The authors are very experienced in their fields. I have personally worked with Azmina, and an upbeat, practical attitude is very much her style. Complementing her skills with the inspiring thinking of a life coach like Nina, makes for a hearty cocktail of fun and knowledge.
Dr Hilary Jones MBBS
GP and resident doctor for ITV's breakfast programme, GMTV