The Dukan Diet is a high-protein, low-carbohydrate diet with four phases, each of which has specific guidelines. The diet was devised by Pierre Dukan, a former French physician and self-proclaimed nutritionist. The four phases of the Dukan Diet are:
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Attack Phase: This phase is designed to jump-start weight loss by eating only lean protein for 1-7 days, depending on how much weight you want to lose.
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Cruise Phase: This phase involves alternating days of lean protein with days of protein and non-starchy vegetables until you reach your goal weight.
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Consolidation Phase: This phase gradually reintroduces other foods back into your diet, including fruit, whole grains, and cheese, while still emphasizing protein and vegetables. This phase lasts 5 days for every pound lost in the first two phases.
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Stabilization Phase: This phase is designed to help you maintain your weight loss by allowing you to eat whatever you want for 6 days a week, as long as you follow some basic guidelines, such as eating oat bran daily and having one all-protein day per week.
While the Dukan Diet may contribute to weight loss, research has linked it to possible health complications, including kidney disease and liver disease. It may also not provide the full range of nutrients the body needs. The British Dietetic Association has named the Dukan Diet the number 1 "diet to avoid".
