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Cambridge Diet
A liquid diet that may be too calorie restrictive for long-term success.
BACKGROUND
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With new diets hitting the market faster than we can lose a pound, it is not too often that you stumble upon a diet that has been around for more than 20 years. The Cambridge Diet has proudly clocked some years under its svelte belt. Developed in the 80s, it still enjoys a very loyal and passionate audience of dieters who have been successful at losing weight and keeping it off.
It is a liquid diet program that involves drinking 3 servings of the signature Cambridge Diet formula each day with or without food. The three servings provide you with protein (either 30 or 50 grams), carbohydrates, fat, fiber and your daily-required vitamin and mineral allowances.
About ten years ago, the Cambridge Diet added an additional product to their 330 Original Product. The 420 Food for Life product contains 100% of the required daily protein needs in 3 servings whereas the 330 Product contains 75% of the required protein. The protein source comes from whey and soy. Both of them are nutritional supplements that do not contain drugs, medicine, stimulants or herbs.
There are four ways for you to follow the Cambridge Diet: - The Fast Track: Consume 3-4 servings of Cambridge a day and no additional food. - The Alternate Program: Use 3-4 servings of Cambridge for one day with no food and then the following day, consume 3 servings of Cambridge with the addition of 400-800 calories of low fat, low calorie health food. Continue to alternate in this manner. - The Regular Program: Eat 3 servings of Cambridge 15- 20 minutes prior to each low calorie meal. Calories should not exceed 400-800 for the entire day. - The Regular Program 2: Consume 3 servings of Cambridge and eat one meal of low calorie food each day. Calories should not exceed 400- 800 calories for the entire day.
PRO
- Cambridge Diet contains all the essential nutrients
- Has a proven success rate
- Safe for diabetics and those with high blood pressure
CON
- Its limited consumption of food may incite excessive eating
- May be too calorically-restrictive for some individuals
- Does not teach you to eat in a healthy and long-term way
- Long-term weight loss may not be sustained
- Calories might be too restrictive for exercise
DIET and NUTRITION
The foundation of the Cambridge Diet is its signature line of shakes. They come in an array of flavors like chocolate, vanilla, eggnog, strawberry, cappuccino, banana cream and many more. The shakes come in two styles: The Original and the Food for Life.
The Food for Life product contains 51 grams of protein, 54 grams of carbohydrates, 3 grams of fat and 140 calories per shake. It also includes 100% of the Recommended Daily Allowance (RDA) of vitamins and minerals. The Original contains 31 grams of protein and contains about 110 calories per shake.
There is also a line of additional Cambridge products like soups, nutrition bars, and super oats.
When taken the prescribed three times a day, you'll only consume 420 calories. If you select to follow a plan that allows for food, you should not consume anymore than an additional 800 calories a day and these calories should come from low-calorie and low-fat foods like vegetables and lean proteins. If you are on the smaller side, it is recommended that you only consume an additional 400 calories on top of the 420 calories for the Cambridge products.
You are also strongly encouraged to drink at least 3-4 liters of water each day.
EXERCISE
Since the Cambridge Diet is so restrictive, exercise should be done cautiously. It is not recommended to start a new strenuous exercise program while on the Cambridge Diet. Moderate exercise like walking or biking is useful once you start to lose weight, providing that it is approached with caution and not done with excess.
CONCLUSION
There is no question that The Cambridge Diet has been around for a long time. And in the process, many have had luck losing weight by following its strict dietary regimen. Since the diet is so low in calories, check with your doctor before starting it, especially if you have an existing medical condition.
The Cambridge Diet devotees swear by the diet's ability to help them lose weight as long as the program is followed correctly. But like most diets that rely on shakes or supplements to shed pounds, its potential for long-term weight loss and for instilling sound and healthy eating habits in you is not that promising.
Common Misspellings
cambrdge Diet, cambradge diet, cambridge deit, camebridge diet, cambridge liquid diet, cambridgediet.com
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User Feedback
(Page 39 of 57, 1131 total comments)Emma
Well, Jackie and Troopersue: I need your help and fast!!! (and anyone else for that matter...........)! I saw my counsellor on Friday night as arranged, I honestly now think that she is next to useless. She stayed with me for less than 10 minutes, weighed me and i have lost 9 pound in a fortnight, and 5 inches. I know i had a weak moment (which lasted 3 days!) so i only have myself to blame, but even so there was no encouragement from her i didn't feel, all she said was "you can really tell you're starting to lose weight". That was it. She knows how difficult i am finding it. What do i do? I then ate all weekend again, but back on it today. Where i am going rwrong is obvious. I am so good Monday to Friday, and then because of that, i think i can treat myself on a Friday night. So off to the kebab shop. This then leads to saturday and then to Sunday if i feel down. What is the matter with me and why can't i do it? I really really want to. I have now lost 1 stone 10 pounds in 5 weeks which is still good, but then i am spending the week taking off what i put on at the weekend. Can anyone out there give me some tips or advice to stop me doing this and to help me? I possibly ought to change counsellors - i have emailed a couple in my area this morning and am awaiting a reply - i don't know how much they are charging but i am paying £38.50 at the moment for a week's supply. I only get a visit once a fortnight because of the "cost of fuel". I am back on it today and obviously i have to be good. What is it about weekends? Especially when my other half worked all weekend doing overtime, but i can't blame him bless him! PLEASE HELP ME BEFORE I GIVE UP!!!! xxxxx
posted Jun 16th, 2008 9:08 amcarrie
Hiya all your all doing so well! I started the diet a few weeks ago, but found my councellor was really unsupportive. Didn't really offer much guidance etc, just saw her to get wieghed and spend £35 on shakes. Consequently fell off the wagon a few times! I only lost 4llbs in the end, but at least that has stayed off! I totally hated the shakes, and felt really unwell in the evenings as some others of you have too. I only have a small amount of weight to lose which may be why? Want to lose about 19llbs in total as I know I will put a few back on once I am off SS. Which isn't too bad, to be honest I would be happy with losing 12llbs. I hated the soups! So am just trying with the shakes now. Will update you every few days. Think the key things are, take each day as it comes, think of it as a short term thing, remember the out come how good you'll feel when you've lost the wieght!, if your feeling unwell keep your mind off it, have a nice bubberly bath and paint your nails as JACKIE said! And also girls and boys, please don't be too hard on yourselves!! If you do happen to have a relapse then don't kill yourself over it!! Drink lots of water and start again the next day. Just don't relapse every day! Take each day as it comes, and just aim to stick to it that day. I'm going to try and remember this, and drink lots of water and tell myself the shakes are gorgeously yummy!! The first three days are the hardest, after that it does get better!! Good luck everyone!! Will let you know how it's going in a few days!xxxxxx
posted Jun 16th, 2008 9:08 amhelp!!
guys i need your help im totally confused !! I am on first day of sole soure and i thought i could only have three of these shakes a day? however on the website it says you can three plus a 200 calorie meal or four shakes and 200ml of milk?! my councellor told me three shakes a day and nothing else!?
posted Jun 16th, 2008 9:08 amgrumbletumble
thanks for replying jackie! i am making the shakes the same way as you, i have totally got used to them now and am looking forward to each one!!! i think maybe the lack of food has sent me doolally hehe...don't think im in ketosis yetas my tumble is still rumbling!..as far as i can tell my breath doesn't smell yet but i do have a manky white furry tongue! eek! i am getting weighed on wednesday so i will update then :o) but so far i think i have lost 8lbs and feel that i have lost on my waist yay! carry on with the good work everyone, take care x
posted Jun 15th, 2008 4:43 pmkate
Jackie - aaarrrrrggggghhhhh my councellor said chewing gum was ok excet that it might make me hungry. its been my life saver - is it a no no cos of the carb content?? I'm on day 5 and so far ok - except for the gum!!
posted Jun 15th, 2008 2:33 pmTABBYCAT
Hi there, been following you all for a while and think you are all great. I have been doing sole source for 6 weeks and have lost 25 lbs so far ~ finding it ok ~ and seeing the weight come off has made me more determined than ever (although there are still weak moments!!). Checking in with how you are all doing has really helped ~ will keep checking in!!
posted Jun 15th, 2008 2:33 pmJackie
Hey All! And welcome to all the newbies! Well done for taking that first step! GRUMBLETUMBLE - How do you make your milkshakes? I use just over half a pint of water, then add ice-cubes, then my sachet, and blend it all together in... well a blender! This makes it thick and creamy and yummy. Give it a go. With ref to the bad breath - yes this will happen. But don’t worry! Assuming you brush your teeth twice a day, you should be fine. However I also carry around breath spray with me. DO NOT USE CHEWING GUM! Or the ice strips. Whatever anyone tells you, they are not Cambridge Diet friendly! Keep up the good work! 7lbs in 2 days is FAB! FI - You are doing FANTASTIC! 11lbs in 11 days! You must be so pleased with yourself. Well done. MIKE – I’m not sure this is the place to be trying to sell your packs. As you probably know, CD is a diet that should be done with GP and Counsellors input. Sorry to sound like a goody two-shoes, I just know how difficult it is to do this diet without the help of counsellor etc. I’m sure other would agree. To be honest I’m surprised that the Site Moderators allowed you to add that message! Sorry! Anyway, that’s just my opinion. Each to their own! Anyway good luck everyone. x
posted Jun 14th, 2008 8:34 amtrucker lez
just done week one on cd,lost 13lb well chuffed, its not easy but the end result will be worth it.keep up the hard work.
posted Jun 14th, 2008 8:34 amFraggle79uk
Hey all! I've been watching this site for a couple of weeks and finally started on CD yesterday! Yesterday I found pretty easy but today is a real toughie!! I have the most amazing craving for hot toast.....ah well. I'm hoping to lose about 7 stone in total and want to make a real effort for November as I am off to my brothers wedding in New Zealand and I haven't seen him in 5 years so really hoping to suprise him. I have to say, I seem to be really lucky, as so far (touch wood) i've liked all the shakes i've tried (choc, banana & strawberry) and also both soups (vegetable and leek & potato) so that's a big help. I'm trying to drink 3.5 litres of water a day too which is sometimes a struggle!! Though i've found a lot more palatable ice cold!! It is SUCH a big help (oh great - now the guys at work are all eating icecreams infront of me!!) to read all of your posts and bit of information and tips. I really felt prepared before my first meeting with my counsellor and there was nothing she told me which you guys hadn't covered. Just wanted to say thanks for such a great site and keep up all the hard work! I'll let you know how I get on on Thursday x
posted Jun 13th, 2008 3:15 pmgrumbletumble
hi :o) i started the c.d sole source yesterday and am finding the milkshake thingys really yukky..i think it's probably psycological and am hoping i get used to them, at the moment i'm drinking them while holding my nose! have lost 7lbs so far hmm im thinking maybe this is a bit too much in 2 days but hey im not complaining! The thing that i am worried about is bad breath, my councellor said that i will def. get bad breath as that is a sign that you are in ketosis...has anyone else had this and how did you cope with it??!!! Good luck everyone, and well done for being so strong! x
posted Jun 13th, 2008 3:15 pmFi
Hi Just checking in. I'm now on Day 11 and have lost 11lbs. I'm thrilled, i've never lost weight this easily before. I am going away in 6 weeks for most of the summer and I'm a little worried that I'll put a lot back on after reading some of the comments. Any holiday advise would be appreciated. x
posted Jun 13th, 2008 9:34 amMike
Hi everyone. Just to let you know, i have 83 cambridge products for sale (mixture of soups and shakes - most flavours) Email me if your interested. Thanks Mike
posted Jun 13th, 2008 9:34 amFraggle79uk
Hey all! I've been watching this site for a couple of weeks and finally started on CD yesterday! Yesterday I found pretty easy but today is a real toughie!! I have the most amazing craving for hot toast.....ah well. I'm hoping to lose about 7 stone in total and want to make a real effort for November as I am off to my brothers wedding in New Zealand and I haven't seen him in 5 years so really hoping to suprise him. I have to say, I seem to be really lucky, as so far (touch wood) i've liked all the shakes i've tried (choc, banana & strawberry) and also both soups (vegetable and leek & potato) so that's a big help. I'm trying to drink 3.5 litres of water a day too which is sometimes a struggle!! Though i've found a lot more palatable ice cold!! It is SUCH a big help (oh great - now the guys at work are all eating icecreams infront of me!!) to read all of your posts and bit of information and tips. I really felt prepared before my first meeting with my counsellor and there was nothing she told me which you guys hadn't covered. Just wanted to say thanks for such a great site and keep up all the hard work! I'll let you know how I get on on Thursday x
posted Jun 13th, 2008 9:34 amJackie
Hey guys! How is everything? Well i'm disappointed with myself. I slipped today - well, I had some salad. I'm in week 3, so I should have waited for my add a meal week - but I guess no one is perfect! I was contemplating whether to write this! But I thought No, others struggle too! I don't want to give the impression that i'm Miss Perfect! So there - I said it, but it wont happen again! Anyway - moving on! DONNA - 5lbs in 6 days is AMAZING!!! Don't feel bad! Men lose weight much quicker than women! Just keep at it, you havent starved yourself for nothing! GRUMPY GIRL - I am SO jelous! I wish I only had 1st to lose! However, it doesnt matter how much you have to lose, it still has the same effect on the way people think of themselves. I personally haven't had mood swings (that I know of!) Evenings have been tough for me this week too! I've been in on my own every night! That makes temptation worse. I would advise you to keep yourself busy. Take a luxurious bath, do your nails, relax and SMILE. Just smiling releases happy hormones in your body. So even when you feel crap, just try to feel better - it sounds stupid I know, but it works. Give it a go. Also, if your Councellor is that bad, FIND ANOTHER ONE! Your happiness is the most important thing. If you dont feel valued as a customer, you're bound to be feeling miserable. EMMA - thank you for your kind words! You made me grin from ear to ear at work today when I read your message. Im glad my comments help. You have been missed while you have been away! And its FAB to hear you're doing so well! Im pleased that my other half is back on earlies next week, I think it will allow me to really get my head around it! ELAINE, I dont know why you would still be feeling hungry. The appetite supressants should have kicked in already, keep drinking your water, and keep at it! Sorry to have rabbited on! If im boring people, tell me to STOP! Have a great day! x
posted Jun 12th, 2008 4:56 pmelaine
been on cd now for 3 wks, its really hard on sole source plus, but still feeling hungry why that anyone know, anyway, will carry on good luck everyone
posted Jun 12th, 2008 11:16 amDONNA
12/6/08 Hi everyone. Feeling really disheartened today. On day 6 of the CD Sole Source, weighed myself today as I just couldn't resist and all I have lost is 5lb :-( I thought i would have lost more than that. My other half has lost more than me, yet he has 4 meals and i only have 3, and i have been exercising and he has done absolutely nothing. I will be weighed by my cambridge counsellor on sat, but i am just thinking, have i starved myself for nothing?
posted Jun 12th, 2008 9:25 amGrumpyGirly!!
Hi I have been on cambridge for four days now. I only have a small amount of wieght to lose, I was wondering if it is normal to feel this ill? I have felt awful? I told my councellor but she is sooooo un helpfull and un supportive!! I don't really like her!! I weigh 10st but want to be 9 as that is wear I feel healthiest. Is it because I only have a small amount to lose? In the evening after work, I just feel really grumpy and the only thing that makes me feel better is food!! I sort of feel a bit sweaty and faint too, my body is calling out for food but its unbarable! Other than that the shakes are nice, didn't like the soups! I've lost 5llbs, so i'm down to 9'11 in the morning, but I have cheated a bit cos I have felt so terrible!! Last night I had two boiled eggs and some grated cheese, then followed by some heroes chocolate!! and a glass of wine!! I'm sticking to it perfectly today, but is it that bad to have the odd bit of food? As long as its protien? and seriously should I feel so terrible in the evenings? Your answers would be greatly appreciated!! As i'm starting to wonder what the point is! My councellor is rubbish and it is quite expensive! But should I feel so ill in the evenings? and is there nothing I can do to feel better? xxxxxx
posted Jun 12th, 2008 9:25 amemma
Hi guys, haven't posted anything for a few days so i thought i better catch up with people and tell you i am still here! Really back on track now with motivation, have my weigh in again tomorrow night so can't wait to see how many pounds and inches may have lost - will let you all know on Monday! I have been REALLY good since Monday, just doing ss and no coke zero even! Just water. I have lost 4 pounds up to this morning so happy with that. Went and bought myself some size 16 clothes at lunchtime, which was great - they don't fit but it has given me incentive to get into them so the money not wasted. Its great size 18 top now and considering i was a 22 in April, i am well impressed. Its hard, but i feel good (at the moment!) Even so, could really murder a huge doner and a slice of pizza, but hey, couldn't we all! I also think its psychological and not actually wanting it (or is it?!!! ...........) Good luck guys and speak again on Monday, JACKIE and TROPPERSUE you are both fantastic - your comments really keep me going!! xxxxx
posted Jun 12th, 2008 9:25 amJackie
CHUBBY DIMPS - I have been told from Cambridge Councellors that COKE ZERO is the only drink allowed other than water. (I saw allowed - what I mean is advised!) I was told no more than 3 cans per week, though I must admit I sometimes have 1 every other day. Never more than 1 per day though. On another note, I wanted to ask about the bars. I tried the peanut as I mentioned, but wasnt overly impressed, the Toffee on the other hand was LUSH! It tasted like a less chewy curlywhirly, I also have a cranberry that im not over the moon with! I want to know about the other bars! Orange, Caramel etc! Can anyone give me some ideas?! Cheers guys, you're great!
posted Jun 11th, 2008 7:04 pmkate
Hiya - reference the diet coke - I was told that it is citric acid that you have to avoid and that is in most diet drinks except coke zero - so that is allowed but only about 3 a week (don't know why its limited?) Well day 2 is nearly over and I'm feeling fine - weird really cos I've bearly thought about food - didn't help though that my mum turned up with a plpated dinner for me at lunchtime cos she knew my fridge was empty - turned her away - gutted cos it was cheese and onion quiche salad and I know it would have been divine!!!!
posted Jun 11th, 2008 7:04 pm