Ultrametabolism Diet Review

Diet Review

By Amy Paturel

Mark Hyman, M.D. should be praised for his forward-thinking approach to personalized nutrition with the UltraMetabolism Diet. His laundry lists of scientific principles and research may be overwhelming and intimidating to some. Still, Hyman's advice regarding whole foods, high-fiber fruits and vegetables and stress reduction is based on sound science. With a cover line that promises a "simple plan for automatic weight loss," the diet is anything but. The detailed shopping list and kitchen recommendations can be overwhelming for an inexperienced dieter, and while Hyman offers some fabulous recipes for those with a holistic view of food, they may be too time-intensive and expensive for many Americans.

However, since dieters are required to swap out processed foods, artificial sweeteners and saturated and trans fats for fiber-rich whole foods, they're likely to get full on fewer calories -- and lose weight. With the diet's emphasis on exercise and stress reduction, most UltraMetabolism dieters will experience a spike in metabolism to boot. But people who are accustomed to eating large portions may have trouble losing weight on this diet. Since portion control is not emphasized or defined and there's little to no room for the occasional indulgences, dieters may feel deprived and binge. And even binging on healthy foods can cause weight gain.

Is the UltraMetabolism Diet healthy?

Yes. Filling up on fresh fruits, vegetables and whole grains delivers maximum nutrition with a minimal calories. The caveat: The diet may not be realistic for Americans addicted to their double cappuccinos and fast-food fixes.

What do the experts say?

Andrea Giancoli, M.P.H., R.D., National Spokesperson for the American Dietetic Association, likes how the UltraMetabolism Diet eliminates refined grains, foods with trans fats, added sugars, high fructose corn syrup and grain-fed beef. "The diet itself emphasizes healthful foods, exercise, stress reduction and inflammation reduction. And it's high in fiber and foods that aid in appetite control," she says. And there are good recipes to boot. What she doesn't like: Hyman's emphasis on supplements. "People tend to self-diagnose and can overdo it with supplements." And Giancoli points out that there are inconsistencies in the diet. "The first phase calls for the elimination of potential allergenic foods -- gluten, eggs and dairy. But nuts and soy are also potential allergens and these foods aren't eliminated in the first phase."

Who should consider the UltraMetabolism Diet?

This diet is good for people who are willing to make big changes and completely overhaul their kitchens. People who are interested in organic, hormone-free, whole foods and who are highly motivated are more likely to do well on this diet. It helps if they're interested in scientific theory, supplements and herbs, too.

Bottom Line

The UltraMetabolism Diet is big on theory and commentary and light on guidance. If you have the time and patience to work with new foods and recipes and you're ready for a major change in your lifestyle, you can lose weight on this diet -- though it might not be much fun.

See the UltraMetabolism Diet at a Glance
See What You Can Eat on the UltraMetabolism