Israeli author Olga Raz identifies bread as the backbone of a diet that people will love following. That is why her Bread For Life diet program is built around bread and what can be put into breads to give your body the necessary nutrition it requires.
According to Raz, the main reason many people cheat on their diets is the craving for foods they love. Since most people in the West crave their daily carb dose and cannot go without it, she recommends a generous serving of bread (16 slices for men and 12 slices for women) every day. According to her, the bread diet, if followed correctly, can help people lose up to 20 pounds in 8 weeks.
The basic principle of the diet is simple. Whole grain breads contain complex carbohydrates. Complex carbs are digested slowly and they therefore keep the blood sugar levels steady. They also increase serotonin levels within the body, which in turn gives followers a feeling of satiety.
The diet allows the intake of whole grain, light breads which typically contain 35-40 calories per slice. Breads that contain raisins and nuts contain more calories and are not recommended for daily use. If you don’t like the idea of biting into 12-16 slices of bread, you can use substitutes like oats or brown rice.
Followers are allowed healthy bread spreads like mustard, peanut butter, hummus, avocado and sugar free jelly. Butter, margarine and sugary spreads are taboo. And yes, the spread should be wafer thin.
A number of healthy sandwich fillings are allowed including but not limited to tuna, smoked salmon, low fat cheese and tofu.
The author encourages the intake of plenty of vegetables as these have a low Glycemic Index and are rich in fiber and nutrients. However, the author does not approve of most fruits because they are sugary and thus have the effect of raising blood sugar levels. The book also advocates avoidance of fruit juices because they have a very high Glycemic Index.
In order to meet daily protein requirements, the Bread For Life Diet allows chicken, meat or fish thrice a week. The meat used should be the low fat variety and processed meats are taboo.
The Bread Diet: a review
The diet makes use of a single ‘base’ food (bread) and incorporates all other beneficial foods into the diet. By doing this, the author allows a carb-craving nation of people the chance to lose weight and make a positive change in their life.
Plenty of fresh vegetables are an important part of the diet. Processed foods and high fat meat are out. Importance is given to plenty of fresh water and limited servings of olive oil.
However, nothing much is said about exercise and in this one area, the book falls short of expectations.
Pros:
- The perfect diet for carb lovers
- Plenty of vegetables
- Emphasizes the importance of avoiding processed and high fat foods
- Easy meal preparation
- No calorie counting
- Inexpensive
- Easy to follow
Cons:
- Not very attractive to those who do not like breads
- Repudiates the intake of fruits
- Might actually increase cravings by providing too much carbohydrates
- Difficult to sustain a social life with this diet
- The type of bread plays a very important role. Not all breads are suitable
- Might lead to protein deficiency
In conclusion:
It has long been known that complex carbs are good for the body. By incorporating plenty of complex carbs, fresh veggies and healthy salads, the diet can be fulfilling as well as healthy. When followed strictly, it can help weight loss. However, the diet seems to cozy up to people’s desire for bread and could trigger intense cravings in the long run.
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