SOON I WILL BE OFFERING you another opportunity to do The UltraSimple Diet Challenge with me as I mentioned in last week’s blog.
Let me tell you a little bit about how that will work. In the next few weeks we will send you a special webinar that will outline how you can become part of the next challenge which will launch very soon. In this article, I want to tell you a bit about how the challenge works.
On the Challenge, I will to take you through the program I have used exclusively with my patients who come from all over to find help for chronic problems. I often joke and say I am a resort doctor, the doctor of last resort. I also say I am “wholistic” doctor because I take care of patients with a “whole list” of problems.The truth is that many suffer unnecessarily from problems that have solutions. You just don’t hear about those solutions. This is the best kept secret in science and medicine.
In my medical practice I spoke to a young man in his 40′s who had suffered for years with terrible reflux, irritable bowel, asthma, and terrible “environmental” allergies.
He was on medication for reflux, cholesterol, multiple inhalers for allergies and asthma, decongestants and antihistamines just to get through the day.
I simply put him on The UltraSimple Diet - and not only did he throw away his reflux medication, he never had another episode of heartburn or reflux, and all his asthma and allergy medication, but his irritable bowel disappeared and he lost 10 pounds without even trying.
His energy is great and he is a totally different person, instead of being stuck on medications for the rest of his life, which didn’t even help that much! He didn’t realize there was another way to deal with his symptoms, or even to get to root of the problems.
Let me tell you the real secret of why I wrote, The UltraSimple Diet–it was NOT to help people lose weight. It was to help people EXPERIENCE, often for the first time, what it is like to achieve a state of UltraWellness–lifelong health and vitality.
I know what it is like to be very sick — I suffered from Chronic Fatigue Syndrome for many years and learned from the inside out how to heal myself.
The UltraSimple Diet gives you the tools and information to get to the roots of illness and obesity. The automatic side effect of dealing with the roots of illness is weight loss-without cravings or calorie, carb, or fat restriction.
I want to confess right up front-my goal is to help you realize that the chronic complaints you have come to accept as normal are NOT!
And in just 7 days you can experience a dramatic transformation in your health.
I encourage my patients to ask what they really want from life.
What do you want from your life? For your health and for your family?
Most people say:
“I didn’t realize how bad I was feeling until I started feeling so good.”
My wish is for everyone to say:
“I didn’t know I could feel this good!”
So how does this work? And how did I learn about this type of healing?
As I reviewed in previous blogs, The UltraSimple Diet addresses the roots of illness — and two very important ones are dealt with directly in the program – inflammation and toxicity.
But how did I learn this? Here are just a few ways…
- I studied nutrition at Cornell University (among other things).
- I am Board certified in Family Medicine and trained at a University of California at San Francisco program.
- I have been personally inquiring into health for over 30 years through diet, yoga and studying detoxification.
- I am the former medical director of Canyon Ranch, one of the world’s top health resorts where I worked with patients addressing inflammation and toxicity for nearly 10 years.
- I am the Founder and medical director of The UltraWellness Center as well as doing many things in teaching, academics and research.
- I am Editor-in-chief of Alternative Therapies in Health and Medicine
- I am on the faculty and board of directors at The Institute of Functional Medicine, a non-profit organization dedicated to teaching principles and practice of this new medicine to doctors.
- And I am collaborating on research with Harvard Medical School in systems and functional medicine.
So as you can see I am busy enough.
Why, then, do I spend so much time trying to educate people about all this?
Well, it’s because I know what it is like to be very sick — I suffered from Chronic Fatigue Syndrome for many years and learned from the inside out how to heal myself. I have also worked with thousands of very sick patients helping them heal.
What I share with you in The UltraSimple Diet are all the jewels I have learned that quickly and successfully help people heal and lose weight.
It works because it addresses the real causes of disease, the common roots of all illness. It is based on the emerging science of systems biology and medicine — Functional Medicine — and fixes the basic systems of the body that underlie all functions by correcting imbalances that have previously lead to illness.
So how do YOU do it?
- Get rid of bad food
- Add good foods
- Detoxify
- Reduce inflammation
- Relax
- Reflect
And here is what you DONT have to do:
- Go hungry
- Have cravings
- Eat gross foods
- Exercise too much
- Wait long for results
If you want to enhance the program even further, then you can try The Enhanced Program, which adds nutritional supplements, liver detoxification, gentle exercise, and stress reduction tools.
That’s it really. It’s simple.
Just eliminate the foods that create toxicity and inflammation and eat detoxifying and anti-inflammatory foods.
I reviewed the details in previous blogs of what causes inflammation and toxicity and how to fix it, so I refer you back to those to read more because I want to get into the nitty gritty of how to do The UltraSimple Diet.
Before I tell you how to do it in more detail, I want you to know what you might experience in one week.
- Weight loss up to 10 pounds
- Improved digestion
- Relief from chronic health problems
- Better energy and mood
- Less congestion, allergies, joint pain, and fluid retention
- Better sleep and skin
And here are the health conditions that can improve with this approach.
- Arthritis
- Asthma and allergies
- Chronic fatigue and fibromyalgia
- Diabetes
- Food allergies
- Headaches
- Heart disease
- Irritable bowel and inflammatory bowel
- Autoimmune diseases
- Menstrual problems and menopause
- And many more!
OK, so let’s review the nuts and bolts of the program.
There are two versions of the program: The Basic Program and The Enhanced Program.
Here is The Basic Program:
- Get rid of bad foods and toxins – sugar, trans fat, HFCS, refined carbohydrates, processed foods, alcohol, and caffeine
- Add good foods – whole, unprocessed vegetables, fruit, beans, brown rice, fish, and chicken
- Avoid all potential food allergens – dairy, gluten, yeast, eggs, peanuts, corn, nightshades, and citrus
- Drink UltraShakes – a low allergy protein shake full of nutrients
- Drink UltraBroth – vegetable broth you can easily make by cooking up vegetables, spicing as you like, draining and saving the liquid and sipping on that throughout the day
- Take UltraBaths – add Epsom salt, baking soda and lavender oil to your bath
- Reflection – write in you journal daily while you are on the program to reflect on how you are feeling, what things are changing, etc.
And here is The Enhanced Program (which is also pretty simple!), which is exactly the same as the Basic, only you add:
- Optimized liver detoxification with olive oil and lemon juice in the morning
- Nutritional supplements – Liver detoxification supportive herbs and nutrients, Vitamin C, Magnesium citrate, Probiotics and an Herbal laxative
- Rice protein to provide amino acids that help your body detoxify
- Flax seeds and flax oil for omega 3 fats
- Exercise-walking
- Active relaxation
So what does an average day look like on The UltraSimple Diet?
- Journaling upon waking
- Breakfast (Lemon juice and hot water, green tea, and UltraShake)
- Snack (UltraBroth, +/- UltraShake (if hungry))
- Lunch (2 cups vegetables, 1/2 cup brown rice, +/- UltraShake)
- Snack (UltraBroth, +/- UltraShake (if hungry))
- Dinner (2 cups vegetables, 1/2 cup brown rice, 4-6 ounces fish or chicken, or 1 cup of beans, 1 cup UltraBroth)
- Journaling before bed
- UltraBath
That’s it – surprisingly simple, and effective. It is even hard for me to believe that such a simple change in diet and lifestyle could make such a difference in just 7 days, but it does. And I have seen it thousands of times.
And don’t be fooled into thinking you’ll be hungry: one of the most common comments I received when this program was being beta tested by over 100 people was that there was actually too much food and they didn’t eat it all. There wasn’t a single complaint that they were too hungry, only a few complaints that there was too MUCH food!
If you are doing The Enhanced Program there are a few other things to incorporate into your day:
- Lemon juice and olive oil
- Additional supplements – Vitamin C, probiotics, magnesium citrate, liver detoxification supportive herbs and nutrients
- Yoga
- Walking 30 minutes a day
- Sauna or steam bath 3 times a week
That’s it!
So what do you do when you are done with the 1-week program?
Well, you have two options.
The first is to just keep going for 3 weeks — the benefits deepen and you can experience profound changes in your life and health.
The second option is to end the program, reintroduce foods, and maintain a healthy lifestyle.
But just a quick warning about reintroducing potentially allergic foods. Go slow and be careful. Do it in two phases as I outline in The UltraSimple Diet. This gives your body a chance to gradually adjust and to help you identify if there are a few foods that you should get rid of permanently, which you didn’t know made you sick. Using the food re-introduction log is very important in this process.
As you might get by now, my true goal for all of you is to help you create UltraWellness, a state of deep and profound health, not just the absence of symptoms or disease.
The UltraSimple Diet Challenge will help you help yourself to get healthy. Watch for an invitation in your inbox to watch a special video that introduces the challenge. It should arrive in the next 5 days to 1 week.
Now I’d like to hear from you:
Do you have any questions about The UltraSimple Diet?
Have you already been through it and if so, what have been your results?
If you have been through it already, do you have any tips for others to get the most out of it?
Please share your thoughts by leaving a comment below.
To your good health,
Mark Hyman, MD
My husband and I have nearly completed our first week on the Ultrasimple Diet and have had marvelous results. For me, the greatest benefit has been an overall feeling of emotional well-being. As stressful situations have arisen during the week I was able to look at them objectively and work through them with a sense of objectivity and assurance–to take the difficult in stride. My husband has noticed the same. In addition, he has noticed some changes in areas of his body that he has had puffiness or inflammation. We both have experienced an increase in energy and have slept better. Thank you for this very simple and yet very effective approach. We look forward to more positive changes as we move forward.
Thanks for the info but how do I make the ultra shake, what are the ingredients?
Thank you,
Ursuline Kairson
Hi Ursuline, thank you for your comment. There are a couple of UltraShake versions, version 1 uses rice protein powder and calls for 2 scoops of protein powder, 1 tbsp. organic flax/borage oil, 2 tbsp. ground flaxseeds, ice if desired, 6-8 oz. filtered water, 1/2 c. fresh or frozen non-citrus fruit such as berries, banana, peaches, and nectarines. You can optionally add 1 tbsp. nut butter or 1/4 c. nuts soaked overnight. If you don’t want to use rice protein, for version 2 you can substitute with 1/4 c. drained silken tofu, 1/2 c. plain soy milk (gluten-free and unsweetened), 2-4 oz. filtered water and the rest of the ingredients remain the same. For the soy-free version use 1/2 c. plain, unsweetened gluten-free almond or hazelnut milk, 1-2 tbsp. nut butter or soaked nuts and the same ingredients as above.
Wishing You the Best of Health!
For the soy-free version, can unsweetened coconut milk used instead of almond or hazlenut milk?
Yes Robin, of course!
I bought flax seed oil, but cldn’t get the fax/borage oil together. If I get the borage oil, how much flax seed oil, and how much borage do I I for the ultra shake?
Hi Gia,
Check this out: http://store.drhyman.com/Store/Show/SearchResults/671
No fruit???
Hi Nancy, thank you for your comment. Sure there is fruit!
Wishing You the Best of Health!
Hi, Please send me the invitation for the challenge. I want to do something because I’m sick and tired of being sick and tired.
Will this diet work on a young woman who has had a seizure disorder since onset of puberty? Can it lessen or eliminate them?
Hello Carmella, thank you for your comment. We can’t state what your experience might be on the UltraSimple Diet with your seizure disorder. If you are under a doctor’s care you might ask your physician to review the diet and monitor you while you are on it if they approve.
Wishing You the Best of Health!
Hi all,
I’ve been tackling/managing various chronic health issues for about 11yrs now and tried many different approaches. I’m 34yrs old now (female) and my initial complaint when I was 16yrs old was ‘tiredness that didn’t improve with sleep or rest’. It was as if I was always dragging myself around. I also started smoking on a regular basis about 6 months beforehand and got my 1st period/menstruation about a yr before then too, so those two factors may have been an influence. I had also always been v.sporty/active and a type A personality, so always on the go, never sitting still, plus I struggled saying no to things and tended to take on too many things in general.
Anyway my Dr ran some tests, found nothing and just wrote ‘TATT’ on my file (tired all the time) and told me to get some more rest. 2yrs later I began feeling low/depressed, more sluggish and had irritable bowel as well! The Dr told me to increase my fibre intake. By now it was 1997 and had undiagnosed depression, which was finally diagnosed in 1999 and treated with a variety of antidepressants, none of which worked well for me, sending me on manic highs and crashing lows like a yo-yo. I was rediagnosed as bipolar type 2. Lithium and Tegretol (carbamazepine) were prescribed which I took for 4.5yrs until 2004. Antidepressants were also prescribed in low doses as my depressions recurred and were still quite strong. Over those yrs my irritable bowel worsened and I progressively lost weight over time, about 4kg in all as I was often nauseous and sick. One day in mid-2004 I got some tummy bug and had the runs for a wk where I lost a further 5kg, leaving me v.underweight and dehydrated. I stopped all my meds cold turkey as an emergency/precautionary measure, which you’re really not supposed to do and did experience some sort of brain/side effect! Afterwards I found I’d developed all sorts of allergic reactions to most foods… Lips/tongue/throat swelling, rashes, fever… For a period of 2wks I found the only thing I could eat was rice with a little olive oil and herbs! Next I went to see a biopath nutritionist, an ayurvedic doctor and a holistic dental practitioner. The nutritionist gave me a list of foods I could eat, which I could eat with digestive enzymes, avoiding the allergic reactions. The ayurvedic doctor gave me oil massaged with special herbs and the dentist removed all my mercury/silver amalgam fillings for white composite ones (9 or 10 in all). Here began my journey into the world of alternative therapies and my love for the subject of nutrition, reading book after book on the matter. I experimented with different nutritional/dietary regimes, always with the objective of optimization of health in mind. In late 2005 I began receiving psychological support since it had been a few yrs since I’d last worked/been in employment and I felt like I could take on some p/t work. I’d also barely had a social life to speak of, so the therapists felt it would take me a little time to get fully reintegrated/reincorporated socially/professionally. I also went to see a holistic Dr then too who ran more tests, blood, EEG and PEG-4 test… He came back to me with a diagnosis of severe CFS (chronic fatigue syndrome) associated with leaky gut syndrome, plus extensive neuronal damage, some abnormality in the behaviour of the parietal cortex area of my brain and abnormality in the behaviour of my delta wave pattern! He gave me about 15 different nutritional supplements to take, taking them was quite short-lived though, about 6wks… and obviously a nutritional/dietary regime to follow, plus biofeedback sessions… I only did about 6 sessions, although they’d wanted me to do about 2yrs worth of weekly sessions! My dad was paying for all this at the time though and he wasn’t too keen, he saw it as some brainwashing therapy! So when all that was interrupted I continued to see a holistic Dr specialised in psychotherapy and maintained my nutritional/dietary regime as my ‘secret weapon’… This has been the same since mid-2006 to date… I am now 85% back to full/optimal health I’d say… It’s only taken this long b/c the brain does take quite a bit longer to regenerate! Happy days
How does the Ultrasimple Diet effect Candida Albicans? Please prove it. Thnx
Hello BBisquit, thank you for your comment. The UltraSimple offers a way to balance your entire body. It has been proven in Dr. Hyman’s private practice and by the many people who have taken the Challenge. We hope you will as well.
Wishing You the Best of Health!
i am 77 yrs old. i do not need to loose wt. i am ill, having different diagnoses, from lyme, fibro, hypothyroidiism, polymyalgia and somewhat weak. should i go on this diet
wow, I would love to lose 10 pounds…
Thank you for posting your diet program. You say to eliminate gluten, but all grains contain gluten. It’s a myth that only wheat, rye, and barley are the only grains that contain gluten. So why recommend brown rice and rice powder?
Dear Christine,
It’s true that rye, wheat, and barley are not the only gluten-containing grains. These include kamut, spelt, and others as well. However, brown rice and rice powder do not contain gluten.
Wishing you Good Health!
Dr. Hyman Staff
Dr. Hyman,
I am fully on board with this program. I agree about the importance of nutrient-rich greens, and fruit – things that can be found on the earth! with oils, fruits, and rice. Actually, I lived in China and realize how important rice is. The Chinese know a thing or two about natural healing
Anyways, I was contacting you because I’ve been having some stomach issues. I’ve had a sensitive stomach for some time. I’m on day 4 of the diet, and have found it difficult to gague my hunger/ versus a constant pain. I’m on anti-seizure medicine, about 750-1000 mg of Levecitriam? (Keppra), and am wondering if that’s the root of it?
I didn’t have alot to lose. I was not unhealthy, or close to diabesity as mentioned in some of the links/websites. I just wrestle with this stomach pain. I also have a brain tumor, which they mentioned something about the connection of an upset stomach. I am well-taken care of, at UTSW here in Dallas, however I just wanted to ask about my stomach – and yet thank you at the same time because I feel great!! I haven’t had a seizure since being on this! Thanks so much for all that you’re doing!!
Lucy from Dallas
Hi Lucy,
Thank you a lovely email. We can’t offer medical information over the Internet without an exam. We are happy to hear that you have been feeling better since being on the UltraSimple Diet, however, and wish you the best.
Dr. Hyman Staff
I am looking forward to the challenge as both my husband and I are a few lbs overwt and need to jump start our healthy living. Travelling all summer has led to the lbs. I have your book and have recommended your website to many people. As a wholistic physical therapist I am such an advocate of your philosophy.
wow, yes, I would love to improve my health and also lose 10 pounds
I have multiple sclerosis and after my last fall and relapse in July of 2010, I went on a quest to find some sort of program to keep me from gaining weight while I nursed a foot injury. Not only did I lose weight, I began to feel more healthy and vibrant than I had in years. I’m looking forward to doing this again.
I AM 78 YEARS OLD. HAVE FIBROMYALLGIA DIGAGNOSED IN 1984 BY A PC WHO HAD SPECIAL TRAINING FROM RHEUMATOLIST AT UCLA FAMILY PRACTICE RESIDENCE AT VENTURA COUNTY MEDICAL CTR.
BIGGEST PROBLEM IS DEPRESSION WHICH I HAVE STRUGGLED WITH ALL MY LIFE. THAT BRINGS ON INSOMNIA, AVERAGE 4 HOURS A NIGHT SLEEP, HYPERTENSION, IBS, GERD, CERVICAL DYSTONIA. ALSO HAVE HAD BACK SURGERY AND STILL SUFFER FRON SCIATICA. MY PC GIVES ME P.T. PRESCRIPTIONS. I USUALLY GO TO A THERAEPUTIC POOL.
I HAVE DISCOVERED ANTI DEPRESSION MEDS BRING ON TERRIBLE NIGHTMARES & SLEEP WALKING.
DR. SHARON NORLING TOLD ME ABOUT YOUR BOOKS. I HAVE MOVED 450 MILES AWAY FROM HER AND CANNOT FIND A FUNCTIONAL MED. DR.
Out of all the different health related books I have had the pleasure to review, Mark’s approach toward wellness is the most comprehensive and effective. Functional medicine is the correct paradigm to follow. As the co-author of an upcoming wellness book that looks at why Americans are fat…my best advice is to avoid “non-organic: fruits and vegetables as much as possible. The pesticides are no longer just on the surface of your foods, they’re in the fruits and vegetables and thus cannot be washed off. Pesticides contain surfactants (detergents) that facilitate the penetration of fat-soluble pesticides into the leaves and roots of crops. American farmland is a “scorched earth” wasteland when a crop isn’t growing on it. Not a single living thing exists after the ground is toasted wtih chemical weed killers before planting. In order for it to support a crop, it has to be saturated with chemical fertilizers along with human sweage (sludge) that is becoming very common place. In one big study, thousands of participants, big-dollar research, and bushels of vegetables got a puny 12% reduction in colon cancer. The small difference you end up paying for organic is worth every single penny of your hard earned money. Have an awesome day! EA
I’ll be looking for the start of this program. Having problems losing even 5 lbs.
Would love to be free from post nasal drip. I am 78 yrs old and have much
arthritis in most joints and refuse to live on pain pills. Cannot walk too far, legs
feel very tired. Sure hope you can help me. Thank you.
My daughter suffers from chronic inflammation. I am looking forward to completing the challenge WITH her so that we can both experience the results. Now if I could only get my husband on board!
I ‘m 72, went through the diet with supplements a little over a year ago, lost about 30 pounds, greatly reduced pain from arthritis, gained flexibility, and improved many aspects of my life. I occasionally start to add a few pounds, but my returning to the diet am able to drop the pounds and address various health issues. I’m looking forward to the challenge!
Looking forward to starting the programme for loosing weight and earning energy.I just hope I will achieve on following right the orders as I am from Greece and I have some problems translating all the words and information.thanks anyway..
I did this last year and lost 7 lbs in 7 days. Could not eat all the food that was prescribed and all the aches and pains went away. Cannot weight to do it again.
e
PS I still cook many of the recipes on the Wellness diet. They are delicious!
i am only 46 years old, but i feel like bad habits are quickly catching up with me. i am a runner who has developed asthma due to bad air where i live. but i wonder how much of that is aggravated by what i eat. if i could lessen it even a little bit through my eating i woudl be over the moon. i am willing to give this a try. adn if i lost some of that stubborn last few pounds in the process that wouldn’t be bad either!
I have done this before from your Detox Box and it is amazing. I need motivation to do it again. I have incorporated a lot of the items into my daily life, however, I get busy and don’t take my vitamins, walk, do yoga, etc. I like the idea of a group. When I have really done it I felt amazing, like I never dreamed I could feel.
‘This is not a weight loss diet. It is a get-healthy diet. Dr. Hyman’s books gave me my life back and at 56 I feel better now than I have even felt in my entire life. Gone are the headaches, stomach problems, soreness and inflammation. I eat healthy, do yoga, and have learned how to relax. I’m not done yet. I get better everyday. I can not thank Dr. Hyman enough.
I have stents and am taking a statin, plavex, and asperin along with CoQ10 and fish oil. I am concerned that my cholesterol is too low. My latest numbers are: LDL 59, HDL 55, Triglycerides 112. Total Cholesterol 136. Will this diet affect these numbers?
Hi James, thank you for your comment. Since you are on medications we would ask that you consult with your doctor before participating on this diet.
Wishing You the Best of Health!
Hi Dr Hyman
I think I will do your challenge. I did a similar challenge a year ago and felt and looked great! I too have spent many years investigating healthy eating (and allergen free – drinking, medicines, supplements, breathing, non toxic home environment etc), as I was very ill for about 8 years. It started when I moved back to America having lived in Europe for a long time. I refused to believe I had fibromyalgia as it didn’t make sense as an illness. Plus I want to be healthy! So I eventually did blood tests for allergy and elimination diets. I now have a very very simple non processed foods diet and avoid the things I react to. I am also careful about the supplements I buy and have any medicine I might need (over the counter or Rx) made allergy free by a compounding pharmacist. For the past 3 years I have been feeling hugely better!
However! I just spent the summer in Italy and realized that I could eat everything (not processed foods though) without reacting and I felt wonderful there! I had energy and no pain! – After a month I did eventually feel that some joints were reacting a little. I know that if I lived there permanently then I would try to avoid or reduce wheat and dairy intake, but even eating these things and others that I am sensitive to or have anaphylactic (anaphylactoid) reactions to caused little or no reaction in Italy. The reason has to be the toxins in our food & drink in America. Pesticides, preservatives – I can’t seems to avoid them even with my extremely limited, hand prepared daily diet. It is so hard to avoid chemicals! I hate the all over pain and exhaustion that has returned with a vengeance – and with in hours after my first meal here! So I will try your challenge and also eliminate non organic where possible.
(I am a friend of a patient of yours!)
Katy
I have been on this program for 5 weeks and it has changed my life – weight loss, yes, but more importantly, I feel fantastic! But I would like to continue the program, including weight loss, how long can I stay on the program?
Hi Rhonda, thank you for your comment and we are happy to hear you are feeling so great! You can stay on the diet for as long as you want considering you are feeling so wonderful and it is working for you.
Wishing You the Best of Health!
This all sounds wonderful but — I have to feed a teenage boy as well as my husband and myself. And we each have our own strong food preferences/habits. The prospect of trying to feed my family without dairy, gluten, eggs, carbs, etc. etc. is really daunting! In the past when I’ve tried to introduce healthy food, they go along with it for about a week and then revolt and go back to their old habits. (There are a lot of “healthy” things like sardines, tofu, curry, protein shakes, etc. that are in this diet that i know they just won’t eat.) As for me, eating healthy turns out to be a lot of work! Fresh food goes bad, whole grains take almost an hour to cook, plus all the chopping and prepping, separate sautéing and baking… it adds up to a huge mess in the kitchen right when we are all starving and exhausted. (And it’s particularly disheartening when I do go through all that and then they hardly eat anything because they don’t like it!) I want to feed my family a healthy diet but most of my efforts so far have fallen flat.
I plan to try the upcoming challenge to give us a good start for the new school year but my fear is that it might not be very realistic for us for the long term, much as I wish it could be.
Hi,
I did the ultra simple diet for 2 months and lost 22 lbs and felt the best ever! I then got off track and went back to my old ways and gained the weight back and have felt awful. I am back to eating clean and may pick up this challeng. I did go to the Ultra Mind solution workshop at Kripalu and you suggested that I do that plan rather than this one. I have had severe depression in the past.
I am not on any medications and feel like this would be a good cleanse to do before that one. What do you think? I am the one who told you that you saved my life…I got out of the hospital as an inpatient. They couldn’t help me. I did your plan and turned my life around. I am forever grateful.
I am having surgery Wednesday, to take my non functioning Gallbladder out, it is working at 8% and I have been gaining weight within the last six months 36 Lbs.
I feel horrible & get sick after every meal. I would be honored to start this diet and get control of my body once again. ~ I am looking for direction with supplements and weight loss ~ I will keep an eye out for your program next week.
I suffer from acute acid reflux and heartburn. I tried to go on tis diet without medication and could not bear the suffering. Should I continue taking mess while beginning on diet again?
Hello JoAnne, you should not do anything that will harm your health and cause you suffering. It would be best if you ran the UltraSimple Diet by your doctor so that he can monitor you.
Wishing You the Best of Health!
I am looking forward to trying this program. I already eat a whole foods, organic diet and avoid all the allergenic foods. But I still suffer from adrenal fatigue, liver/gall bladder/stomach pain and dysfunction and don’t absorb nutrients well from my food. Menopause has caused hot flashes, depression, weight gain, unstable blood sugar and panic attacks and despite taking hormone replacement for two years (which didn’t do much for me) and now taking herbs, I still suffer. I am tired all the time, have low tolerance for stress and feel I am rapidly aging and I am only 52 years old. I used to be an energetic, enthusiastic person and now I feel like an exhausted person who worries all the time about my health and longevity. I have a hard time detoxing and have a toxic body which I feel is the root of all my problems. This diet and regimen reflects wisdom about health that I have read about over and over. I hope that entering in with guidance and other people doing it too will help me finally turn my health around so I can enjoy my life again. Dr. Hyman, thank you for offering this.
When you say avoid citrus, what exactly do you mean? Later, you say to use olive oil and lemon juice in the morning. Isn’t Lemon citrus?
Hello Martin, thank you for your comments. We can see how this could be confusing, but if you don’t know if you are allergic to citrus it would be best to avoid it completely.
Wishing You the Best of Health!
Dear Dr Hyman,
I have been reading your blogs for last one year and finally bought the Ultra simple diet and the ultra mind solution, which have really created an intrest in me to live a healthy life, as it is possible to do so. I am 45 and don,t have any major complains about health except for being bald… I am planning on going on the Ultra simple diet program as suggested by you. I being a vegetarian , what would be a good alternative for fish or chicken?
Also, my daughter who is 17 is bit obsessed and I was looking for some help for her. Can you suggest something for her.
Thanks & regards
Dev Patel
what is an ultrashake?
green tea contains caffine. Is it still on the Ultrasimplediet?
I lost 8 pounds the first week, then 7 more over the next 8 – 9 months. I have always eaten carefully. This felt good, similar to a program I was on many years ago. My question is how do I lose another 10 pounds? Do I eat protein with my lunch? I did not seem to react to any of the foods I reintroduced but have kept pretty well to the basic eating plan. I did not feel a surge in energy. I have recently read questions about soymilk and flax seed/oil regarding estrogen. Any response? I cannot use almond milk and use brown rice milk for my Ultrsahake.
Hi Gail, thank you for your comments. You might increase your exercise and it would be fine to eat protein with lunch. At this point you can adapt your diet to the UltraSimple Diet and do what works best for you. We can’t comment on estrogen specifically. We’re happy to hear that you are doing so well on the diet, keep up the good work!
Wishing You the Best of Health!
Hi Dr. Mark!
I am one of your biggest fans. I have read your books and have practice a few things from your programs. I have just turn 57 and feel like I am 27. People think I am 37. I exercise daily and eat organic foods when I can afford them, no longer eat meat or poultry. Your programs have let me take back my health. I will doing your challenge to add something else to my lifestyle.
Thank you for your wealth of information. I look forward to your emails.
You are the best!
Great! I finally broke down and bought the book and am waiting to get it in the mail. I plan on joining your challenge, and will try to talk my husband into joining me. I think we’ll both benefit. Thanks!
Doc, I have type 2 diabetes and neuropathy from shingles and diabetes. Can this help my condition? I am in pain and discomfort every day. Nothing else has helped. Thank you for your advice! MD
Hello Michael, thank you for your comment. We cannot say if your condition would be alleviated by the UltraSimple Diet but you might give it a try and see if it does.
Wishing you the Best of Health!
I live in Greece. Can I go on this diet here? Are there ‘ultrashakes’ here? Do you buy these or can they be made from simple ingredients on hand? We have lots of olive oil and lemons in Greece, so no problem there:):) I’d really like to try this diet for a week and detoxify my body and my mind. Let me know how I can do this. Sunny Greetings from Greece. Janet
Hello Janet, you can go on the diet anywhere and UltraShakes are something you make from fresh ingredients. We hope to see you in our Challenge!
Wishing you the Best of Health!
Can I do this and still run, bike etc.? Or do it when racing is over.
My wife who is a nurse with fibromyalgia and a life-long history of digestive problems used the UltraSimple diet to determine that she has a gluten sensitivity. It is amazing how much better she became when she eliminated gluten from her diet. It is surprising how many patients have similar histories and have never been counseled to try the UltraSimple diet by their primary physicians or gastroenterologists. I am an emergency physician and have referred many patients to the UltraSimple diet to determine if a food sensitivity contributes to their problem. By the way, it is obvious that Dr. Hyman is an integrative medicine specialist which is, fortunately, a growing field. My wife consults with such a specialtist regularly. Together they determined that my wife had subtle testosterone deficiency, adrenal fatigue (low cortisol) and hypothyroidism that was not picked up by routine screening earlier by her primary physician (who, in her defense, is very competent). She is much improved. She also runs, swims and bikes regularly despite her fibromyalgia.
Due to fibro and a broken neck, I have trouble chewing and can only eat soft foods. Would the Ultra shakes do enough of a job in keeping up my nutrients? I find vegetables and fruuit almost impossible to eat unless they’re reduced to an unattractive mush.
Dear Ushie,
I recommend working with a physician and/or nutritionist trained in integrative or functional medicine to work out a diet that is appropriate for you. The UltraShake can be used, but it should not necessarily be the only form of nutrition you receive.
Wishing You Good Health!
Dr. Hyman Staff
This sounds good. Can vegetarians do the UltraSimple diet?
Dear Sandy,
Yes, they can and there are many delicious vegetarian recipes included in The UltraSimple Diet Challenge and The UltraSimple Diet Companion Guide.
Wishing You Good Health!
Dr. Hyman Staff
You can buy green tea that is decaffeinated, that’s what I drink. Every supermarket sells it. Good luck.
Dr. Hyman’s UltraSimple Diet worked for me. After completing the first week last April, I reintroduced foods over the next 5 weeks and lost 12 # along with swelling and pain in my right knee. I had more energy, could sleep and focus better. At 66 yo, i was really surprised when a female acquaintance remarked: “You look radiant.” This summer I regained a few lbs. while traveling and then drinking coffee again has caused sleep to suffer. I am ready to reset my diet and join in a group effort which will make the effort more interesting.
I have been doing weight watchers – lost 30 pounds and have stayed there for 5 months. I would love to try this program. I have allergies and I currently get 2 shots per week and take 3 medications daily for allergies and asthma. I would like to not have to do any of it. Will there be more in the future on this diet?
I have lots of problems. I can not walk well, so would this be a problem. Would your Diet still help?
Dear Margie,
You will likely still lose weight and feel better on the UltraSimple Diet even if you can’t exercise. You may consider adding sauna to the program as a “passive” form of aerobic activity. Saunas are also great for detoxification.
Wishing You Good Health!
Dr. Hyman Staff
Can I buy an ultra broth already made?
Hi Barb, no it is not something that is available on the market but if you are not interested in making it you can substitute low-sodium, organic vegetable broth.
Wishing You the Best of Health!
Is there a way to adapt the UltraSimple Diet challenge to a vegan diet?
Dear Sarah,
Yes, they can and there are many delicious vegetarian recipes included in The UltraSimple Diet Challenge and The UltraSimple Diet Companion Guide.
Dr. Hyman Staff
I like meat- chicken works for me! but I like meat alot- can we have more meat on this eating plan for health?
Dear Dee,
On the UltraSimple Diet it is recommended you stick to lean proteins exclusively—fish, chicken, beans, etc. After the 7-day program is over integrating red meat and pork into your diet in limited quantities is acceptable.
Dr. Hyman Staff
Dear Dr. Hyman,
I would love to participate in your program, but am afraid to include protein powders in my diet.
I am extremely concerned about free glutamate having damaging effects. I’ve read that this may be toxic, a neuro-excitotoxin that can affect the brain, even possibly causing brain damage.
II don’t pretend to understand all of this, but after suffering greatly, I am afraid to use foods which have the amino acids broken down!
Please help!
Lisa Allen
Dear Lisa,
If you choose to eliminate the protein shakes in the morning, many alternative breakfasts exist include tofu scramble, dinner from the night before, and many other options.
Dr. Hyman Staff
Curious about use of green tea, grass fed beef, using 100% pure crystalized citrus in water….if lemon and olive oil allowed?
Dear Michele,
Green tea is accepted and encouraged on the UltraSimple Diet. I recommend avoiding beef of any kind for the 7-day program, but grass fed beef is an excellent addition to a healthy diet in the long run. You may add it back in after the program is over. Not sure why you would chose crystallized citrus when you can simply use a squeeze of lemon on the program, I would avoid it.
Dr. Hyman Staff
I am 57 and overweight. My husband is 65 and overweight and has colon cancer with liver mets. We NEED this diet but I have hypoglycemia and have always had to eat protein 3xdaily to function. I am a little concerned, too, as to how this would work with his chemo.
Dear Stephanie,
I would strongly encourage you to bring The UltraSimple Diet to your doctor and discuss how you could work through the program with him. With health conditions of this severity doing the program under the supervision of a physician is recommended.
Wishing You Good Health!
Dr. Hyman Staff
This sounds like a great idea! I’ve been wanting to do this for a while, but haven’t taken the plunge yet. I’m in the middle of reading “The Ultramind Solution” for the second time.
I have Crohn’s disease and am underweight. Is this program safe for me since I need to gain weight? Also, I avoid beans because of gas production. Can I just eliminate those from the plan and still be on course?
Thank you!
Karen
Dear Karen,
I would strongly encourage you to bring The UltraSimple Diet to your doctor and discuss how you could work through the program with him. With health conditions of this severity doing the program under the supervision of a physician is recommended. Regarding the beans—yes, you may eliminate them.
Wishing You Good Health!
Dr. Hyman Staff
Is the amount of protein in the diet OK for people with CKD?
Dear Margo,
If you have kidney disease, you should only complete the diet under the supervision of a physician.
Wishing You Good Health!
Dr. Hyman Staff
Is there a way to test food allergies without going through the elimination and re-introduction process?
I read recently that brewed coffee reduces risk of Alzheimer’s disease. I don’t want to give up my morning coffee. Is it possible to do your program successfully without giving up coffee?
Hello Dr. Hyman,
I am glad of the opportunity to get back into your wonderful program. You have done an extraordinary job of intergrating important information into the essential facts needed to address so many health issues.
My husband is 69 years old and while he had enjoyed a great constitution and pretty good health all his life. his somewhat indulgent lifestyle habits were beginning to show. He was at a turning point in his health – he was taking statins for cholesterol quite a bit above 200 and his doctor told him he had to begin to take insulin due to a change in blood suger. He was about 25 pounds over weight, felt low energy and often needed to nap during the day.
We decided to do the ultra simple diet together and he experienced dramatic results. I am sorry I don’t have the numbers off the top of my head, but within two months he lost 15 pounds without any cravings, his “bad” cholesterol dropped to a normal level and his “good” cholesterol improved 25%. His blood sugar was normal and he had so much energy that he started jogging again, which he declared he thought he would never be able to do. He is off statins, never had to start the insulin and his doctor was most shocked at the significant increase in good cholesterol. He said that almost never happens “just with diet.”
My husband brought to his doctor’s visit some of the ultra broth to share and a copy of the ultra simple diet. The doctor tasted the broth but never looked at the book. He commented that, “If you could increase good cholesterol with a pill, you’d be a millionaire.”
My observations were that not only did my husband change his physical health, his mental health was improved as well. He seemed calmer, less irritable and more emotionally “present.” He felt so much better that he actually started to have an interest in cooking for the first time in his life because he came to understand the benefits of food as medicine.
I would also mention that making this lifestyle change is pretty significant. It requires a deep commitment to self-care and a belief that you can be well.
I thank you for the remarkable work that you have done in this field – MD’s are “Doctors of Medicine.” There are many things about our current knowledge of medicine that I would never want to live without. However, it appears evident from their title that doctors in the US are trained to prescribe medicine and not to prevent illness nor support people to change lifestyle in order to get well. I understand that our economic system is not designed to support prevention nor doctors who prescibe prevention. Thank you for finding ways to to do just that.
I think it would be most helpful to have a diet consisting of real foods (your UltraMetabolism cookbook is great). Could folks do to UltraSimple with foods (fruit-veggie smoothies, cooked/raw veggies, etc…) vs. UltraShake mixes?
Dear Garth,
Yes, you can. You may trade the shake for any food allowed on the program.
Wishing you Good Health!
I am sensitive to rice. I get a runny nose and feel sluggish and sleepy. Should I try to eat it anyway on this detox regiment or is there a substitute? It’s been a couple of years since I have tried it. If so, what brands of rice protein do you recommend? What do you think about using walnuts or almonds as substitute for rice protein? I am also allergic to fish – break out in hives. I don’t do well with any protein or complex carbs such as soy, corn, meat, grains or beans. Have not eaten any meat except occasional organic turkey in 5 years. I am so sensitive to so many things that I have not been able to find protein and complex carbs that I can eat and still feel well and not gain weight. So, I feel lethargic most of the time except for a few hours in the morning after I swim and before I eat. My experience following eating is traumatic for me and I wish I didn’t have to eat – but then I get so hungry… I first did the UltraWellness Detox 5 years ago and it, I think, saved my life. I have lost 60 pounds since then. My blood work is normal — cholesterol and glucose are steller. Your approach to wellness makes so much sense to me but I just can’t seem to find a combination of foods that I can digest properly that nourish me properly and give me good energy without gaining weight. Any suggestions?
Dear Annette,
I strongly encourage you to work with a physician and/or nutritionist trained in integrative or functional medicine. If you are this sensitive to foods, professional intervention is strongly recommended. You can find a diet that works for you, but it should be done under the guidance of a physician trained in these principles. It would be unethical of me to provide the level of medical advice you request over the internet.
Wishing you Good Health!
i have been researching proper diet and nutrition for many years, as I have been overweight most of my life. i am interested in learning more
I’ve been reading about your UltraSimple Diet and am excited to receive your email with the video, etc in it. I and my husband need to lose a bit of weight, and we both are experiencing inflammation issues. We need something to help. I myself have hypothyroid and have been on medication for the past 25 years. I don’t know that it’s helping as I have gained weight and have a very difficult time trying to lose it. When I do lose some and add just a few calories to my day I just gain the weight back almost immediately!!
We both also have allergy issues and are taking antihistamines constantly throughout the year – don’t think that’s too healthy either.
I’m really looking forward to receiving your email soon.
I’ve lost 60 pounds over the last year and I’m off my metformin and zetia but still on thyroid, crestor, lexapro and need to still lose about 50 pounds. I’m 200 pounds right now. I’m struggling and because of food allergies that I’ve had since birth I’m just having a very hard time. I now don’t eat any foods that I have even the most mild reaction to and it’s dropped my C-reactive Protein form 10 to 1.2 but I’m starving and the cravings are horrible. I’m allergic to raw fruits and vegetable plus nuts and seafood. All vegetable must be thoroughly cooked not just steamed. Although I love strawberries and apples and bananas and salads and tomatoes and the reactions that I notice are mild – eating them causes my C-RP to climb. I don’t eat bread or pasta or rice – nothing in the white family which is how I got my A1C down but dropping the foods I’m even mildly allergic to has made it hard for me.
Do you think that your Ultra-simple diet will help me to stay off the diabetes and cholesterol meds? I’d like to lose more weight but that’s secondary to being off the meds.
Thanks so much,
Susan
I have been on the ultra simple diet since Aug 1 and am amazed at how much better I feel. My bloated stomach is now flat. I shed 7 pounds in 7 days and have kept it off. I had chronic diarrhea for the past 6 years and none of my doctors advise helped. After 2 days on this diet the diarrhea stopped. What a relief!! Thank you for helping me finally feel good again.
Also he does allow green tea and I have continued running 5 miles a day and lifting weights without any problems.
I take several supplements daily, ie, multi-vitamin, D3, Omega 3, calcium, probiotic and a few more. Will I continue to take these during the initial phase of the program? I see some listed supplements will be added during the Enhanced version , so, is it o.k. to stay the course and take my supplements throughout or should I discontinue during the 1st week and begin again during the Enhanced version?
Hi Bobbie, thank you for your comment. If you are joining the Challenge you will get detailed instruction on what you need to do with supplements. For more information please go to .
Wishing You the Best of Health!
I am 77. Been taking supplements under medical supervision for decades without significant improvement. Have knee implants, balance problems, walk with a cane. I do not have access to a sauna or bathtub. Live in a retirement community with an indoor pool. Have limited access to real organic vegetables, fish and chicken. Addicted to sweets, have Irritable bowel syndrome, Celiac Disease. Ready to do your program as best I am able. Thank you. JC
My 18 year old daughter had candida two years ago. Now she has contracted a asthma like illness and no one seems to be able to figure out what it is. I am guessing it is candida popping up in another form. She was not able to begin college because she was only using 47% of her lung capacity. all tests show there is no problem. tested negative for microplasm Chest xrays ect. I am going to join her in this challenge. Thanks Mark for sharing all your expertise. I’ll let you know how it helps.
what is an ultrashake?
Hi G, thanks for the comment. An UltraShake is a delicious treat that is designed to provide essential protein for detoxification, omega-3 fatty acids from flax oil, fiber for healthy digestion, anti-oxidants and phytonutrients.
Here is the basic recipe:
2 scoops of rice protein powder, 1 tbsp. organic flax.borage oil, 2 tbsp. ground flaxseeds, ice if desired, 6-8 oz. filtered water, 1/2 c. fresh or frozen non-citrus fruit such as berries, banana, peaches, and nectarines. You can optionally add 1 tbsp. nut butter or 1/4 c. nuts soaked overnight.
Wishing You the Best of Health!
I’m a 41 yo female without serious health issues. I do suffer from very dry skin (have all my life) and suffer from chronic upper back/neck pain. I exercise on average 3 times a week, including cardio, stretching end weight/resistance. I am at a healthy weight and bmi, so on paper should be feeling pretty good. The truth is, I think that I could potentially feel a lot better. I often feel quite tired and “foggy” in the brain. As an intensive care nurse and quite familiar with “western medicine”, I am Actually very interested in functional medicine. Treating illnesses by treating causes makes so much more sense. I’m very curious to try the ultra simple diet, but also quite scared. My diet seems to consist of all the things I can’t eat whilst on this diet. I drink 2-3 coffees a day, have cereal for breakfast, love bread and carbs, eggs and dairy. How am I going to cope? I wake up with a bad headache if I don’t have a coffee at night. Will I feel quite bad initially? Do you think I should try your diet to see if I do suffer from some food intolerances and have a chance at feeling a lot more energetic, etc?
Hi Margriet, thank you for your comment. It sounds like you might benefit from trying the UltraSimple diet. We can’t make claims as to how you will feel personally, but based on the testimonials of others you can get an idea of what their results were and what you might expect for yourself.
Wishing You the Best of Health!
Hello Mark,
I am a very clean eater but want to lift my wellness to the next level. I know this will focus me on that opportunity. Thank you as always for your encouragement . Ready to go !
I have been found intolerant of gluten, soy, and cow milk I was not intolerant of goat or sheep or eggs
Do I need to follow this diet and cut out eggs as well?
Not sure if this is generalized for someone that has been tested ?
Dear Tere,
If you know for certain you aren’t sensitive to eggs, you may include them.
Wishing you Good Health!
My mother and I did the basic program last year and lost a combined 15 pounds… I’m currently reading, “UltraPrevention” by Dr. Hyman and Dr. Liponis… a must-read! I completely rely on Dr. Hyman’s health advice and recommend him to all who are interested in taking care of themselves. After all, our bodies are the temple of the Lord.
I would like to know what an ultrashake is too!
Also green tea has caffene is that ok?
Dear Giovanna,
Green tea is accepted and encouraged on the UltraSimple Diet. The recipes for the UltraShake can be found in The UltraSimple Diet book, the following is the basic version using rice protein:
2 scoops of rice protein powder
1 tbsp. organic combination flax and borage oil
2 tbsp. ground flaxseed
filtered ice if desired
6-8 ounces of filtered water
1/2 c. fresh or frozen non-citrus organic fruit
optional: 1 tbsp. nut butter
Wishing You Good Health!
Have been dealing with gerd for several years. No heartburn but that sour taste. refuse to take all those heartburn meds.
Dear Dr Hyman,
I am presently taking 12grams of Fiber, the Vitality 6 (Vitamin Group) and Access from Melaleuca.
Question: Do I have to suspend any of those to follow any of your programs or there is a way to combine them.
Thanks !
H Reyes
Dear Hernan,
You do not have to suspend them, but you shouldn’t “double dose” or take these in addition to any of the equivalents on any of my programs.
Wishing You Good Health!
I had planned on doing this anyway, doing it with a support group will be much better. The coffee part was the hardest for me when I followed the program before, hard enough that I’m not sure that I will completely eliminate coffee. The rest was actually quite easy. I’m going to buy organic broth instead of making my own, as I came to loathe even the smell of it! I made a really good brown rice pilaf with onions and garlic and vegetable broth and divided it into portions. That helped a lot. I found Swanson Vitamins online to be a very reliable and reasonable place to get the supplements. I’m looking forward to everyone’s input. One problem, and I haven’t checked to see if it’s fixed, but the comment section in the website was completely overtaken by advertisements, of cheap knock off goods.
Cannot wait and it looks just the plan I need. Thank you
Hi, I would like to start theUltrasimple diet , seems very good!
It is a problem to find rice protein powder right now in my plase, can I do it myself just using brown rice in a blender? Is it the same product?
Thanks a lot
Marianthi
Hi Marianthi,
We suggest: http://store.ultrasimplediet.com/Store/Show/UltraSimple%20Diet/667/The-UltraSimple-Dietreg-Enhanced-Kit
(expand the rice powder protein to read more)
In good health
Very ill with diabesity. Love that description. Want to do the UltraDiet. Going to look for book tomorrow. If can’t find, will order online. My question is, I can’t get in/out of a tub due to weight and hip replacements. Willk it matter much if I can’t do the UltraBaths?
Thank You,
Stacey
Hi Stacey,
Not at all! Take any steps you can and they will all add up eventually. Start with the food, supplements and try some deep relaxation-deep breathing works great as does meditiation.
In good health
Any reason I should not participate in the Ultra Simple Diet? I’m 83 and in relatively good health. Still play golf. Also, I plan to attend Canyon Ranch in Lenox, MA and want to be sure it makes sense at my age.
Any help for Lichen Sclerosis???
I’ve been preparing to start the Ultra Simple Diet for the past two days. I’m practically on it already but have a few questions. Are you allowed to snack on almonds during the day and if so, is there an amount you should not exceed? Also, are sweet potatoes allowed on this Ultra Simple Diet? I plan on doing this for 7 days then slowly reintroduce some foods (but NOT sugar or white flour or dairy). Thanks.
Hi Judith,
Keep the almonds to a small handful- about 12-16 I suppose. yes, you can include some sweet potato- probably best to eat 1/2 at a time if you are concerned with blood sugar imbalances.
For more nutrition support please see your nutrition coaches:http://store.drhyman.com/Store/List/Coaching-Programs
Can hemp protein powder be substituted for rice protein in the UltraShake?
Thanks!
Hi Andrea,
Yes it can. enjoy!
I am suffering with severe statin myotoxcity 24/7 severe pain,increasing muscle weakness and fatigue
Caused by Crestor 40 mgs I am taking supplements. No help so far. Suggestions??
Hi There,
In order to provide you the proper care you need we hope you will seek the attention of a local qualified Functional Med practitioner soon. To locate a doctor near you who practices functional medicine like Dr. Hyman, go to http://www.functionalmedicine.org/practitioner_search.aspx?id=117 and scroll down to where it says “locate a practitioner” and enter your location. Progress accordingly from there.
Also, check out this article for more information about statins:
http://drhyman.com/blog/conditions/do-statins-cause-diabetes-and-heart-disease/
Is decaffeinated coffee on this diet? Or is there something in coffee besides the caffeine that can cause problems?
I only drink it for the taste.
Hi KB,
Yes, coffee itself can be problematic too for some people so it might be better to transition to phytonutrient-rich green tea! Always helpful to detox from those foods or substances we are most addicted to and see what our body feels like off of them.
For more personalized nutrition advice, Dr Hyman’s nutrition coaching team would be happy to work with you on an individual level to help you reach your goals. To work with the nutrition coaching team please go to: http://www.bloodsugarsolution.com/nutrition-coaching/ OR call (800) 892-1443 to get started.
Hi, where can i find a doctor who cn help with this diet and any testing? I live in South Florida, when i did the search a dermatologies and a doctor to sells HGC came up?
Thanks.
Thank you for your message and your interest in Dr. Hyman’s work. To locate a practitioner of functional medicine in your area see the “Find a Functional Medicine Practitioner” link at the Institute of Functional Medicine website: http://www.functionalmedicine.org/practitioner_search.aspx?id=117.
Wishing You the Best of Health!
Dr. Hyman Staff
Hello like to know if there’s anything I can do to help with my cervical dystonia medical condition. I am in my mid 40s finally got a diagnosis with this condition. The neck and shoulder spasms have been disabling and have made very difficult o function properly and enjoy life. Also have made my depression worse. I am currently getting temporary relief from physiotherapy plus will be on my 3rd xeomin botox injection try to see if I can get some real relief from this condition.
Any invaluable resources and natural methods will be great. Thank you.
Hi Michael,
Thank you for sharing your health issues. Unfortunately Dr Hyman cannot provide personalized medical advice in this portal. Have you tried the UltraSimple Diet to rule out food sensitivities and nutrient deficiencies? For more personalized nutrition advice, Dr Hyman’s nutrition coaching team would be happy to work with you on an individual level to help you reach your goals. To work with the nutrition coaching team please go to: http://www.bloodsugarsolution.com/nutrition-coaching/ OR call (800) 892-1443 to get started.
I am interested in your next challenge.
Can you freeze the ultrabroth?
Yes!
I found a link to the Ultra Simple diet posted by a friend on Facebook and decided to give it a shot. I don’t have a ton of health issues, other than one called Interstitial Cystitis. I started the Monday after Thanksgiving 2012. Within the first week, I had lost 5lbs. I decided to do it a second week, then a third, and now it’s just about 2 months later. At this point, I’ve lost 17lbs, and my symptoms from the IC have cleared up as there is nothing that I’m eating to irritate my bladder.
This has become a way of life for me. I had severe sugar addiction, which I didn’t realize until day 2 of the diet when I was experiencing withdrawal symptoms and couldn’t even see. I crave nothing anymore, and knowing what I’m going to have for each meal makes my life a whole lot easier. I have tried incorporating things back in such as a slice of pizza, and realized that I have some sort of sensitivity to bread products. This has opened my eyes to what my system was going through without knowing it. I have no plans to stop living on this plan – the weight is coming off, I’m not in pain from the IC, and I’m able to sleep through the night for the first time in years. I’ve referred many friends over to your site as well and I hope they take advantage of it.
I find that the amount of food is too much for me to eat at one meal. Do I need to cut all the portions in half and eat all three items, shake, rice, vegetables or if I can’t eat all the amount eat more of one than another, say like more vegetables and less rice or forgo the shake? If I can’t eat all the amount and I am hungry in an hour of my meal should I eat some of what I should of eaten at the previous meal?