Shangri-La Diet

By definition, Shangri-La is a place of peacefulness and utopia where worries do not exist. Perhaps for many who struggle with problems of obesity, or want to shed a few extra pounds, a weight loss strategy that, in name, promises tranquility offers a refreshing change.

The Science Behind the Spoon

Dr. Seth Roberts, a former professor of psychology at the University of Berkley, California, espouses the existence of a "set point," which is a weight at which an individual's body aims to maintain naturally. The body increases or decreases appetite and metabolism to maintain this set point, even in the short time between meals. The idea of a set point has long been embraced and accepted in the world of nutrition. However, Dr. Roberts' unique addition to the theory is a link between a body's set point and what he calls the "taste-calorie association."

Taste Calorie Association

Dr. Roberts asserts that a connection exists between the flavor of food and the body's desire to gain, lose, or maintain weight. When foods carry pleasing tastes, the body instinctively wants more, and therefore raises its set point to eat more and allow for weight gain. When foods are bland, or do not taste good, the body naturally decreases appetite and lowers its set point.

Eating the Shangri-La Way

Three strategies help break the connection between taste and calories and help the body find a new set point.

• Eat foods with minimal flavor
• Eat foods with new or unusual flavor
• Eat foods with a low glycemic index (i.e. food that takes longer to enter the bloodstream)

Essentially, Dr. Roberts suggests staving off hunger in between meals by consuming tasteless substances such as small amounts of oil, water, or water with a little added sugar.

Cautionary Notes

Dr. Roberts tested his theory on himself. Therefore, this diet plan has not been tested on a wide variety of populations, and Dr. Roberts has not yet published his theories in entirety. Therefore, consulting a doctor is recommended prior to beginning this or any other diet program.