Smart for Life Cookie Diet

The Smart for Life Cookie Diet has grown in popularity recently because it seems to promise the impossible: Eat cookies, lose weight. The claim, however, is misleading. These cookies are not sugar-rich, chocolate or peanut butter infused guilty pleasures; they are actually all-natural diet cookies that suppress a person's appetite. The cookies are made with organic ingredients and are meant to be eaten in conjunction with a balanced diet of lean meats and vegetables.

The Diet Program

• The Smart for Life Cookie Diet Program prides itself on being led by a team of physicians. An individual seeking to try the cookie diet must first visit one of the doctors affiliated with the program. This doctor evaluates the individual to determine if there are any hormonal or metabolic issues that prevent the individual from losing weight. During the visit the individual undergoes a series of tests, including a physical exam, electrocardiogram, body composition analysis, blood work and lab tests. There are no extra charges if pre-existing medical conditions are discovered.

  Following the full body exam, the individual is put on a diet of Smart for Life food products. The main food products are the natural cookies with flavors such as chocolate, oatmeal and blueberry. The cookies contain protein, amino acids and fiber, and no preservatives or chemicals. Other foods include muffins, shakes, soups and desserts. The program calls for eating six of the cookies on a daily basis while also eating a daily dinner of fresh vegetables, whole grains and lean meats such as chicken or fish. According to the manufacturers, an individual eating six cookies a day can expect to lose as much as 3 to 4 pounds a week.

Tips and Warnings

• Do your own thorough research before trying this diet. It's not for everyone and may even be harmful for certain individuals, such as pregnant and nursing women or people with serious illnesses. Always consult your own (neutral) doctor before going on this diet.

  Keep in mind that this is a very low-calorie diet that may be difficult to follow for some people. Also, the lack of variety may be a problem for people who enjoy a diet rich in choices.

  Don't plan on following this diet for more than 2 or 3 months. This is a short-term diet that may be difficult to maintain for more than a couple of months. The lack of variety, high cost (a six pack of cookies costs $8) and minimal calorie requirement can take a toll on even the most determined dieter.