Book Review

The pH Miracle for Weight Loss

Robert O. Young, PhD, and Shelly Redford Young Reviewed by Lalita Kaul, PhD, RD, LDN Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics Spokesperson January 2007

Claims:

In The pH Miracle, the authors create not so much a diet, but a "cleansing program" designed to balance body chemistry and lower cholesterol. Unlike other programs that focus on counting calories, fat grams or carbohydrates, the pH Miracle focuses on achieving the right pH balance. By focusing solely on pH levels, the authors claim dieters can achieve their target weight faster than they ever thought was possible.

Diet Plan:

In the 12-week pH Miracle plan, dieters drink one liter of alkaline water for every 30 pounds of body weight every day and consume a diet consisting of 70 percent to 80 percent green vegetables. Those with 50 pounds or less to lose are encouraged to go on a liquid diet for the first two weeks, while those with more than 50 pounds to lose should extend this period to three weeks. Participants also consume supplements, such as pH drops and powdered greens, as well as an herbal bowel cleanser. Participants should also perform 15 minutes to 30 minutes of exercise five days a week, depending on intensity.

The pH Miracle diet is based on the authors' theory that an excess of Candida is responsible for a variety of health problems, among them weight gain. Shifting the body to a more alkaline pH will cause excess fat to melt away and make it easier to build lean muscle. The ultimate goal over the course of the 12 weeks is to replace unhealthy, acidic blood cells with all new cells that are at optimum health.

Nutritional Pros and Cons:

There is no doubt nearly all of us could stand to eat more vegetables or that replacing some of the red meat and cheese in one's diet with leafy greens will have a positive effect on cholesterol levels. Besides a diet rich in vegetables, the plan recommends exercise. Unfortunately, the pH Miracle is not quite so simple.

Although it is hard to argue with the pH Miracle's heavy emphasis on green, leafy vegetables, many dieters may still be curious to know more about the science behind this plan. Regrettably, the authors are vague; other than citing an unspecified "1991 study" as proof of the program's effectiveness, they do not provide details on the research behind their theories.

Additionally, liquid fasting may be difficult and unpleasant for some readers. The plan recommends multiple supplements, which can become expensive.

Bottom Line:

This is not a healthy way to lose weight.

Although The pH Miracle is based on what seems to be a rather obscure theory, many dieters could likely benefit from following certain aspects of the plan. After all, it recommends regular exercise in combination with a diet rich in leafy green vegetables. That said, it also involves less-pleasant aspects, such as fasts and a complicated supplement regime.