Scarsdale Diet

The Scarsdale Diet was a famous book written in the 1970s. Dr Herman Tarnower ran a clinic in the town of Scarsdale, and (like so many other doctor-designed plans) created the diet for overweight patients.

The book has always been a huge seller, and is still popular today.

Low Fat, High Protein

The Scarsdale Diet has a peculiar nutrient ratio - the only diet exactly like this. It contains 43% protein, 22.5% fat, and 34.5% carbohydrate.

Dr Tarnower claims this level of diet brings about the process of ketosis. Indeed the diet is low calorie (about 1000 per day), and has very strict rules during the first two weeks. After the first phase, the calorie limit is lifted a little (the "keep-trim" program).

The supposed weight loss is 20 pounds (9kg) in just 14 days.

Scarsdale Meal Plan

Breakfast
1/2 grapefruit
slice of wholemeal toast (no spreads or butter)
coffee (no sugar or milk)

Lunch
Canned tuna
salad with oil-free dressing
coffee

Dinner
Roast lamb (with all visible fat removed)
salad with lemon and vinegar dressing
coffee

Drinks
Water, diet drinks, tea, soda water.

Scarsdale Diet Issues

Like many diets of this kind - the calorie recommendations are too low. While weight loss will occur, it is neither healthy, or sustainable in the long-term.