The book “Cinch!: Conquer Cravings, Drop Pounds, and Lose Inches” is written by the acclaimed nutritionist, Cynthia Sass. She’s the co-author of another popular “Flat Belly Diet”. I am not a big fan of the original Flat Belly Diet, as the diet is too restrictive in terms and calories. Secondly, I don’t believe a specific diet can effectively target the belly fat. Regardless, the new Cinch Diet plan appears to be a sensible way to shed off the extra pounds. So what is Cinch Diet? Does it really work? You are going to find out from this article.
Cinch Diet Plan: an Overview
The diet plan consists of 2 phases: the fast forward and the core. The “fast forward” phase lasts for 5 days, and is optional. There’s a quiz in the book to help you decide if you should skip this phase. In the 5 days, you eat 4 meals with only five foods: spinach, almonds, raspberries, eggs, and yogurts. Besides, you should drink only water and tea without sweeteners. Nevertheless, you are allowed to drink 8 oz of coffee a day.
In the second phase, the core plan, you eat 4 meals per day with foods from following categories:
Produce: apples, mixed greens, grapes, bell pepper, onion, carrots
(You are required to include fruit in the breakfast and snack meals, and veggies in lunch and dinner)
Whole Grain: whole wheat pasta, brown and wild rice, whole wheat pasta, whole grain bread
Lean protein: lentils, beans, chicken breast, salmon, feta cheese, nonfat yogurt
Plant-based fat: extra virgin olive oil, black sesame seeds, natural peanut butter, almonds, green and black olives
Besides, you can add flavor and aroma to the meals from SASS (Slimming and Satiating Seasonings): basil, lemons, limes, balsamic vinegar, jalapenos, chili peppers, ground cinnamon, fresh ginger.
In addition to the 4 meals, you can enjoy one square of dark chocolate per day. The Cinch diet restricts alcohol, soda, and processed foods.
The Pros
#1. The Cinch diet plan is a balanced and nutritious program. Unlike other weight loss program, you are not deprived of any major nutrients. The Cinch emphasizes the importance of whole grain products. These products can help to reduce craving and keep you satisfied for extended period of time.
#2. Calories or carbs counting is not required. You need to practice portion control though.
#3. The recipes outlined in the book are easy to prepare.
#4. The author devotes one chapter on “emotional eating”. She encourages the readers to build healthy relationship with foods, which is rarely discussed by other experts.
The Cons
#1. The Cinch diet plan is not social friendly. When you dine out, it’s difficult to find the food listed above.
#2. It takes good amount of time to prepare the meals, and may not be suitable for busy people.
#3. The first phase, Fast Forward plan is too restrictive. Unless you have will power made of steel, the diet is not easy to stick to. Certainly, the Fast Forward diet will allow you to lose weight, but it’s likely caused by loss of water and lean muscles. Thus, it’s recommended to skip the Fast Forward plan and head straight to the core phase.
Conclusion
The information of Cinch Diet plan appears to be common sense knowledge. The program is well worth trying if you are committed to reach your weight goal.
