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The GOLO diet is a weight loss plan that involves taking a supplement called 'Release' while eating a restricted-calorie diet of whole, unprocessed foods. The diet focuses on balancing hormones, particularly insulin, to promote weight loss. It was developed by a team of healthcare providers and pharmacists in 2009 and has become increasingly popular since then. The GOLO diet is not a typical diet trend as it prescribes a dietary supplement alongside a restricted calorie intake. The diet promises healthy, sustainable and affordable weight loss, making it an attractive option for those looking to shed pounds. However, it is important to proceed with caution as there are potential downsides and risks associated with the GOLO diet.
Characteristics | Values |
---|---|
Calorie restriction | 1,300 to 1,500 "nutritionally dense calories" |
Dietary supplement | Release |
Food groups | Animal protein, green vegetables, healthy fats, legumes, nuts and seeds, other vegetables, whole grains |
Calorie deficit | 300 to 500 calories |
Cost | $59.99 to $119.85 |
Pros | Encourages eating healthy, nutritious whole foods |
Avoids processed foods | |
Reduces risk for heart disease, cancer and type 2 diabetes | |
Cons | Restricts calorie intake |
Requires weight-loss supplement | |
Unfounded health claims | |
Not recommended for those with a history of disordered eating, diabetes or medication for existing health conditions |
What You'll Learn
What is the Golo diet?
The GOLO diet is a weight loss program that claims to help people lose weight and live healthier lives. The program has two main components: a personalised meal plan and a dietary supplement called Release. The diet was developed by a team of healthcare providers and pharmacists in 2009 and is based on the idea that hormone imbalances are stress and anxiety triggers, which can lead to weight gain. The GOLO diet focuses on balancing hormones rather than limiting fat, and claims to be a long-term solution for weight loss.
The GOLO diet requires people to reduce their daily calorie intake to 1,300 to 1,800 calories of nutritionally dense food. The diet encourages the consumption of whole, unprocessed foods, including animal protein, green vegetables, healthy fats, legumes, nuts, seeds, and whole grains. It discourages the consumption of processed foods, sugar-sweetened beverages, artificial sweeteners, and red meat.
In addition to the diet, GOLO recommends taking their Release supplement, which contains plant extracts and minerals that supposedly help regulate blood sugar levels, increase energy, and reduce hunger and cravings. The supplement is meant to be taken daily with meals and can be phased out once the desired weight is reached.
The GOLO diet has received mixed reviews. Some people have reported significant weight loss and improved health markers while following the program. However, there are also concerns about the safety and effectiveness of the diet. The calorie restriction may be unsafe for some people, and there is limited research on the Release supplement. It is always recommended to consult with a healthcare provider or registered dietitian before starting any new diet or supplement regimen.
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What does the Golo diet consist of?
The GOLO diet is a weight loss program that claims to offer a "comprehensive weight loss solution" that is "safe, easy, and clinically proven to work". The diet consists of two main components: a personalised meal plan and a dietary supplement called Release.
The GOLO diet was developed by a team of healthcare providers, including doctors and pharmacists, in 2009. It is not a typical diet trend, but rather a prescriptive way of eating that requires users to take a supplement while significantly restricting their calorie intake. The diet recommends reducing daily calorie intake to between 1,300 and 1,800 calories of "nutritionally dense" food. The diet encourages the consumption of whole, unprocessed foods, including:
- Animal protein (beef, chicken, pork, eggs, milk, cheese, and yoghurt)
- Green vegetables (asparagus, broccoli, zucchini, and kale)
- Healthy fats (coconut oil, olive oil, chia seeds, hemp seeds, and flax seeds)
- Legumes (black beans, pinto beans, garbanzo beans, and white beans)
- Nuts and seeds (almonds, cashews, walnuts, pistachios, and peanuts)
- Other vegetables (potatoes, sweet potatoes, and squash)
- Whole grains (brown rice, oatmeal, and quinoa)
In addition to the dietary recommendations, the GOLO diet also promotes the use of their Release supplement, which is said to contain seven natural plant-based ingredients and three key minerals. The supplement is claimed to provide a total metabolic and health solution by improving insulin sensitivity, curbing appetite, and balancing blood sugar levels. The diet recommends taking one to three Release capsules daily and phasing out the supplement once the desired weight is reached.
The GOLO diet also offers additional resources and support to its users, including a guidebook called the GOLO Rescue Plan, which teaches users how to create balanced, nutrient-dense meals, and access to an online community with free meal plans, health assessments, and support from online coaches.
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What are the benefits of the Golo diet?
The Golo diet is a weight loss program that claims to offer a "comprehensive weight loss solution that is safe, easy, and clinically proven to work". The diet focuses on managing insulin levels and balancing hormones to promote weight loss. It involves taking a dietary supplement called Release, which contains plant extracts and minerals that are said to help regulate blood sugar levels, increase energy, and reduce hunger and cravings. The Golo diet also provides a guidebook and access to an online community for support.
So, what are the benefits of the Golo diet?
Firstly, the Golo diet encourages the consumption of nutrient-rich whole foods, including fruits, vegetables, healthy fats, and lean proteins. This can help ensure that the body gets all the necessary vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants for good health. Eating whole foods can also help reduce the risk of heart disease, cancer, and type 2 diabetes. Additionally, the Golo diet discourages the consumption of processed foods, which is in line with general health advice for maintaining a healthy weight and promoting gut health.
Secondly, the Golo diet may be particularly beneficial for those with limited knowledge about nutrition. It provides a simple framework for creating balanced, well-rounded meals by combining food groups in the correct proportions. This takes the guesswork out of meal planning and makes it easier for individuals to make healthier choices.
Thirdly, the Golo diet may help individuals manage their weight and improve their overall health. The diet's focus on managing insulin levels and balancing hormones can help with weight management and fat burning. The diet also includes an exercise component, which is known to aid weight loss and improve overall health.
Lastly, the Golo diet may be appealing to those who have struggled with conventional diets or yoyo dieting. It claims to be a sustainable and healthy approach to weight loss that does not involve restrictive calorie counting or the elimination of entire food groups. Instead, it focuses on portion control and encourages individuals to eat until they feel satisfied.
However, it is important to note that there is limited independent research on the Golo diet, and some experts have expressed concerns about the restrictive nature of the diet and the lack of evidence supporting the supplement's efficacy. As with any diet plan, it is always advisable to consult a healthcare professional before starting.
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Is the Golo diet safe?
The Golo diet is a short-term weight-loss plan that involves eating nutritious whole foods while taking a dietary supplement called Release. The diet is based on the idea that balancing hormone levels will lead to weight loss. It involves taking one to three Release capsules per day, which contain plant extracts and minerals that are said to help regulate blood sugar levels, increase energy, and reduce hunger and cravings. The Golo diet also includes a guidebook and access to an online community.
There are some potential benefits to the Golo diet. It encourages eating healthy, whole foods and increasing exercise, which can aid weight loss and improve blood sugar levels. The diet may also be a good option for those with limited knowledge of nutrition, as it provides a simple framework for creating balanced meals.
However, there are several concerns about the safety and effectiveness of the Golo diet. One of the main concerns is the restrictive nature of the diet, which requires a daily calorie intake of only 1,300 to 1,500 calories. This level of calorie restriction is generally not recommended for adults unless under medical supervision and could lead to unhealthy eating habits and nutrient deficiencies. The diet also relies on a weight-loss supplement, Release, which has not been thoroughly researched and may be potentially harmful. In addition, the creators of the Golo diet make several health claims that are not backed by scientific research.
Overall, while the Golo diet may help with weight loss in the short term, it is not recommended for those with a history of disordered eating, diabetes, or those taking medication for existing health conditions. It is important to consult a healthcare provider or registered dietitian before starting any diet plan, including the Golo diet, to ensure it is safe for you.
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Who should and shouldn't try the Golo diet?
The Golo diet is a calorie-restricted diet that involves taking a supplement called Release, which is sold by the creators of the diet. The diet also involves eating nutritionally dense foods. The Golo diet may be suitable for some people, but it is important to consider the potential risks and downsides before starting.
Who Should Try the Golo Diet?
The Golo diet may be suitable for people who are looking to lose weight and are in good overall health. The diet is based on the principle of reducing insulin resistance, which can help with weight management and lowering blood sugar levels. The Golo diet also encourages eating whole, unprocessed foods, which can provide various health benefits, including a reduced risk of heart disease, cancer, and type 2 diabetes. The diet may also be a good option for those who want a structured plan that teaches them how to create balanced meals.
Who Should Not Try the Golo Diet?
The Golo diet is not recommended for people with a history of disordered eating, as the calorie restriction may lead to unhealthy eating habits. It is also not suitable for people with diabetes, as the Release supplement may lower blood sugar levels. People taking medication for health conditions should also avoid the Golo diet, as the supplement contains herbs that may interact with prescription medications. Pregnant or breastfeeding individuals should not take the Release supplement or follow the Golo for Life Plan, as the herbs in the supplement may be unsafe for the baby, and the plan restricts calories too much for pregnancy and breastfeeding. Additionally, the Golo diet is not recommended for those looking for a long-term weight loss solution, as it may be unsustainable and restrictive. It is also important to note that the diet requires purchasing the Release supplement, which can be expensive.
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Frequently asked questions
The Golo diet is a prescriptive way of eating that requires a dietary supplement while significantly restricting your calorie intake. The Golo diet was developed by a team of dedicated doctors and pharmacists in 2009.
The Golo diet consists of supplements and a diet plan. The diet plan focuses on eating in a way that minimises hormone imbalances to help you lose weight and maintain weight loss. The supplement is called Release and is meant to be taken daily.
The Golo diet encourages eating healthy, nutritious whole foods while avoiding processed foods. Eating whole foods can help reduce your risk for heart disease, cancer and type 2 diabetes. The Golo diet also promises "healthy, sustainable and affordable weight loss".
The Golo diet encourages the consumption of animal protein, green vegetables, healthy fats, legumes, nuts and seeds, and whole grains.
One of the primary red flags of this diet is how much it restricts calorie intake. The Golo diet requires eating only 1,300 to 1,500 calories daily, which is unsafe for most adults unless under medical supervision. The Golo diet is also expensive, with the Release supplement costing £49.95 for 90 tablets.