Genie Diet Foods

Similar to other fad cleansing diets, the Genie Diet is based on a combination of detoxification and low-calorie eating. For just under $30, members of this diet plan receive a cleansing agent to jumpstart the process as well as food and menu ideas. Reports of helping overweight individuals lose 10 to 15 pounds in two weeks have skeptics talking, but it is possible to follow a nutrition and diet plan similar to this one at home, without all the hype.

Detox

• You can replicate the first phase, detoxification, at home. Consume primarily water-rich foods such as cucumbers, celery, honeydew, cantaloupe and lettuce. Avoid heavy proteins, processed foods, preservatives and most cooked foods.

  Other agents purported to aid in cleansing can be added to homemade juices, water and tea. Ingredients include cayenne pepper, aloe leaf, fiber, ginger and honey, all of which can be combined into a drinkable mixture that promotes the purging of toxins from the body.

Low-calorie Foods

• The Genie Diet encourages members to adhere to a meager 1,000 calorie diet for a brief period following the detoxification phase.

  Acceptable foods include oatmeal, low-sugar or low-carb fruits, fat-free dairy products, coffees and teas, leafy greens and small portions of grains. Dieters should avoid avocado, red meat, sugar, nuts and most liquids other than water, tea and coffee. Refined carbohydrates such as breads, certain cereals and white rice should not be consumed.

Higher-calorie Foods

• Moving from the 1,000 calorie to approximately 1,700 calorie day is the next step in the Genie Diet. A 1,700 daily calorie intake is considered healthy and reasonably substantial. The Nutrition and Food Web Archive (see link in Resources) provides comprehensive plans to help dieters adhere to this calorie count with fresh, hearty and diverse foods.

  Dieters are encouraged to consume lean proteins such as chicken, fish, eggs and low-fat cheese. Richer fruits and vegetables such as squash, eggplant, apples, grapefruits and broccoli can now be integrated into the daily meal plan. Leafy vegetables such as spinach and kale are recommended in larger portions, while unrefined carbohydrates, potatoes, grains and nuts can be included in moderation.

Liquids

• In addition to a detox liquid, coffee and tea, staying hydrated on a cleansing, low-calorie diet is imperative. Many of the liquids consumed are diuretics and can leave you feeling empty and lethargic. Drink plenty of water and consider including a fortifying additive for electrolytes throughout the dieting process.

Acceptable Reward Foods

• Although the Genie Diet is designed on a 14-day frame, many dieters find it easier to stick to such a strenuous plan when there are rewards included.

  Some acceptable reward foods include 100-calorie dessert snack packs, sugar-free sorbet or frozen yogurt, frozen fruits, sugar-free baked goods, sugar-free hot chocolate, one or two candies and 94% fat-free popcorn. Sensible snacking and rewarding yourself for adhering to your diet is key to staying on track.