Phase 1&2

Phases 1 & 2 of the Eurodiet method are designed to induce moderate physiological ketosis under medical supervision, within specific indications and in the absence of contraindicators. Inspired by our scientific observation of fasting, the ketosis induced by our diet should not be mistaken for diabetic ketoacidosis. It is a metabolic state induced by a reduced carbohydrate (CHO) intake. To compensate for the low-CHO blood level, the body uses the fatty acids found in fatty tissues to make ketone bodies which are then used as "fuel" instead of glucose.

It is because ketogenic dieting has been demonstreted as both effective and safe when it is part of a structured programme and conducted under medical supervision that we have chosen it as a starting phase for our weight loss and long-term maintance programme. It is generally admitted that ketogenic diets enable rapid and consequent weight loss, mainly at the expense of the fat mass (fatty tissue) whilst the lean mass is preserved by an appropriate intake in high-quality protein. Moreover, several studies have demonstrated that a greater initial weight loss encouraged optimal long-term weight maintance.

Phase 3&4

Phase 3 plays a crucial part in sustainable weight loss and the long-term modification of eating habits. Made of 4 stages (A, B, C & D) that correspond to increasing levels of calorie and carbohydrate intakes, phase 3 is focused on foods with a low-glycaemic index and load that can either be used following a ketogenic management phase, or in first intent.

WHEN SHOULD PHASE 3 BE UNDERTAKEN?

• To consolidate the results achieved by a ketogenic phase (1 or 2): the gradual reintroduction of carbohydrates is crucial here if weight regain is to be avoided. The four stages (A, B, C & D) should follow one another, ideally over a period of 4 months at least. This results in a diversification of authorised foods and paves the way for a gentle progression towards a balanced diet.
• As part of an "educational" programme: in case of metabolic disease (type-2 diabetes, metabolic syndrome, raised cholesterol or triglyceride blood levels), each phase-3 stage will be an opportunity of learning about different food groups, thus enabling you to optimise your diet.
• As a break during a ketogenic phase: Phase 3 can prove helpful when a break is needed during a ketogenic programme (holidays or Christmas time, for instance), the aim being to resume a phase 1 or 2 afterwards.
• As a starting phase: Using phase 3 as a starting phase may suit persons who are only slightly overweight, or in whom phases 1 or 2 are contraindicated ... or who just do not wish to undertake a ketogenic phase. The starting stage (A, B, C or D) will be determined with the health professional, according to needs and goals.

WHAT DOES "GLYCAEMIC LOAD" MEAN?
The glycaemic load (GL) reflects the capacity a standard helping of any given food has of raising blood sugar levels (glycaemia). A glycaemic index is deemed "low" when it is below 10, "high" when equal to or above 20 and "average" when it is within this range. With this concept, the demonization of certain foods such as watermelons or carrots for instance, becomes impossible. It reveals the equivalence of foods belonging to the same food group, all vegetables, for instance, have a low glycaemic load, even if and when their carbohydrate/sugar contents vary.