Taking a Break

After 2 to 12 weeks of losing weight during the Core Phase and 2 weeks of Stabilization, your mind and body need a complete break. Scientific studies have shown that dieters who take an occasional break have more success long term.

Raising your calorie intake to a more normal level during the Stabilization Phase has helped bring your metabolism back up to speed. In combination with the reintroduction of carbohydrates into your diet, you are now prepared for more lifestyle-oriented methods of weight control.

After the last day of the Stabilization Phase (day 14), your diet will be much more open. Anything goes, really, but you'll probably find because of the focus on more healthy foods, you won't feel the need to change it significantly. What you've been doing will help you keep your weight on track.

It's a good idea to stay in "break mode" (everyday weight maintenance mode) for at least 2 weeks. Then if you want, you can circle back to the beginning and do another round of the Core Phase.