Fat Flush Plan

Looking beyond the basic principles of healthy eating and exercise, The Fat Flush Plan leans on a rigid program that focuses on essential fats (flaxseed oil, gamma-linolenic acids and conjugated linolenic acid), protein (8 ounces or more per day plus 2 eggs), antioxidant-rich vegetables, moderate amounts of fruit, calorie-burning herbs and spices (apple cider vinegar, mustard, cayenne, ginger and cinnamon), cleansing diuretic beverages, exercise, journaling and sleep.

There are three phases: The Two-Week Fat Flush, The Ongoing Fat Flush and The Lifestyle Eating Plan. During the vigorous phase 1, you'll consume between 1,100 to 1,200 calories per day. By following Gittleman's lead, the inches will melt away from the areas which mainly store fat - right around the midsection. Instead of chipping away at muscle, you'll reduce bloat.

In Phase 2, you'll continue losing weight at a more moderate pace. Your calorie intake will be increased to 1,200 to 1,500 calories a day. You'll move on to Phase 3 once you've realized your goal weight.

Using Phase 2 as your foundation, you'll make the transition into Phase 3, where you'll consume more than 1,500 calories a day. During this maintenance phase you'll be able to enjoy four healthy carb servings (a variety of starchy vegetables and nongluten hypoallergenic grains, along with two dairy servings.