I am under treatment for depression. Is it safe for me to take the Cambridge diet?
There is nothing in the Cambridge Diet plan that would interfere with depression therapy. It is important, however, that any diet you undergo be supervised very carefully by your doctor or psychiatrist.

I am on a low sodium diet. How much salt is there in Cambridge?
The Cambridge Diet contains approximately 500 mg of sodium per serving, or approximately 1,500 mg salt per day. A doctor should be consulted if the dieter has been placed on a low sodium diet, to make sure that the sodium intake is not in excess of the doctor’s recommendation.

I have a thyroid condition and am on medication. Can I safely take the Cambridge Diet?
The Cambridge Diet is compatible with all standard thyroid procedures, but I would recommend consulting your doctor before starting any diet.

Can a person with diabetes be on the Cambridge Diet?
Many of my colleagues have found that by changing from three Cambridge Diet meals per day, to six mini meals the dieter’s caloric intake is controlled. We have seen great success with diabetic patients using the Cambridge Diet. Diabetics are cautioned, however, not to embark on any diet programme without first consulting their physician. Those who have Diabetes Type 1 and are taking insulin are contraindicated.

How does the Cambridge Diet affect those with hypoglycemia?
Hypoglycemia is the opposite of diabetes. Low blood sugar often results from poor nutrition. The Cambridge Diet made into six mini meals per day does an excellent job of keeping the blood sugar level in hypoglycaemic people.

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I have raised cholesterol levels. Can I use the Cambridge Diet?
No problem. Studies have shown that using the Cambridge Diet as the sole source of nutrition cuts levels of blood cholesterol by an average of 25% and blood fats by an average of 40% – the reduction seems to be greatest in those with initial high levels. When patients returned to a normal diet levels rose again, but not as high as before. There is also some evidence that, following weight loss, ongoing use of the Diet as part of a healthy diet, ie with lots of fresh fruit and vegetables, cereals, lean meat, oily fish (eg salmon, herring, mackerel, etc), and unsaturated fats, could also help control cholesterol levels.

Is a lactose intolerant three-year-old too young to enjoy a drink of lactose-free Cambridge Diet?
Over the years many a Counsellor’s child or grandchild has enjoyed Cambridge Diet as a delicious milkshake drink. There is nothing in it that will cause harm and it is certainly more nutritious than many children’s drinks. A half a portion at a time is enough for a small child, with a total of one whole Diet per day. This will probably be as much as she can drink and it would be a shame to waste it; and the level of nutrients will not be so concentrated. The same goes for lactose-free Cambridge Diet which is available in selected flavours.

Does the Cambridge Diet help with the bowel disease Diverticulitis?
Diverticulosis is the development of diverticula (small sacs) in the bowel. Diverticulitis is a complication produced by inflammation of the diverticula. Symptoms can include bloating, pain in the lower abdomen, and changes in bowel habits. Lack of fibre may play a part in the development of this condition and a high fibre diet might reduce the incidence of complications. So how does dieting affect the condition? With any change in eating habits a change in bowel habits can follow. No two people are the same and there is no telling whether Cambridge will help or not. Initially, try six half portions. Or, try the higher-fibre 790 kcal programme.

What is the advice for someone with a history of constipation?
Natural bulking agents should be used in the preparation week to ensure there are no existing problems at the start of the weight loss process. A change of eating habits will almost inevitably cause a change in bowel habits for everyone. ‘Fibre 89’ is a very effective natural bulking agent available only from Cambridge Health Plan. There are other over-the-counter remedies but it is becoming more difficult to obtain products that do not have added carbohydrate – which would undermine the ‘Sole Source’ programme. ‘Fibre 89’ is very economic – a 125g tub provides 40 servings. It is also very versatile as it can be mixed in any drink, hot or cold, and its presence remains undetected.

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Can people with high blood pressure take the Cambridge Diet for weight-loss and is it permissible to take diuretics?
Many people with high blood pressure have experienced extremely positive results taking the Cambridge Diet for weight-loss. Not only has there been a significant drop in blood pressure, but also a normalization which allowed a decrease in medication previously required. It is very important that these people consult their doctors, especially if they are taking medication. The Cambridge Diet, taken as a sole source of nutrition, will itself cause water loss. Any artificial diuretics added to the diet could seriously deplete your potassium balance and cause dizziness, weakness and fatigue. For this reason, medication having a diuretic effect should not be taken concurrently with the Cambridge Diet except with the approval of a doctor.

I have high blood pressure. Can I use the Diet?
Yes. You can take the Cambridge Diet as a Sole Source of nutrition providing that your doctor agrees and signs the Medical Record Form. The Diet is low in sodium, and results in a natural water loss in the early stages. This – along with your weight loss – will invariably reduce blood pressure so your doctor may decide to adjust the dosage of any anti-hypertensive medication. Changes in medication must be supervised by a doctor – not by yourself or your Counsellor. If you maintain your weight loss and take regular exercise, this could be a real possibility for you.

How will the Diet benefit my arthritis?
Arthritis is a degenerative disease affecting the weight-bearing joints. The Cambridge Diet is not a "cure", but losing excess weight helps relieve symptoms. Where attacks are triggered or aggravated by food allergies, the Cambridge Diet makes an ideal exclusion diet to follow while rogue foods are identified. A lighter body puts less strain on the joints and some patients find they need less of their anti-inflammatory drugs to alleviate the symptoms. But be careful, the joy of having less pain can make you more active, which in turn may aggravate the joints again!

I suffer from gout. Can I still take the Diet?
Gout sufferers generally have raised blood levels of uric acid (hyperuricaemia) which can cause crystals of sodium urate to be deposited in the joints – an extremely painful condition. Using the Cambridge Diet as a Sole Source of nutrition may also raise uric acid levels, so if you are susceptible to gout, you could risk triggering an attack, particularly during the first few days of your diet. Anyone with a history of gout should be warned of this possibility and their doctor must sign the Medical Record Form and adjust their medication to prevent an attack while on ‘Sole Source’

Is the Cambridge Diet suitable for people with coeliac disease?
Yes. Coeliac disease means sufferers cannot tolerate the gluten found in wheat, oats, rye and barley. The Cambridge Diet drinks and bars are all gluten-free.

Is the Cambridge Diet suitable for anyone with peanut allergy?
The chocolate coated bars are not suitable but all the diet drinks and soups are. The presence of peanut oil is listed in the ingredients on the wrappers of all the bars except Chocolate. Although the Chocolate flavour bar does not have peanut oil as a separate ingredient, it does contain vegetable oil, and as such there is no absolute guarantee that peanut oil may not be present even in a minute amount. Peanut allergy can be life threatening. Those that are extremely sensitive and at serious risk of anaphylactic shock if exposed to peanut in any form are extremely scrupulous about checking ingredients. A Cambridge Counsellor should be able to advise them correctly.

Can someone with a lactose intolerance use the Cambridge Diet?
Lactose intolerance is the inability to digest lactose (milk sugar) and is caused by a deficiency of lactase – an enzyme released by the small intestine which allows milk sugar to be absorbed into the blood stream. The Cambridge Diet has a skimmed-milk base and is therefore not suitable for those with this condition. However, a small range of Cambridge Diet drinks made with soy milk is available on request. These are suitable for those who are lactose intolerant or who have a milk allergy

I seem to have a recurring problem with heartburn and have an ulcer. Will the Cambridge Diet aggravate this condition?
On the contrary, the Cambridge Diet is easily digested, and reports indicate that it has a very soothing effect on the stomach. Some people swear that the Cambridge Diet drinks have reduced their symptoms drastically. It may be necessary to take six mini meals per day instead of the three regular Cambridge Diet meals, but the ingredients in the Cambridge Diet will not interfere with ulcers or ulcer medication. If you are on medication for ulcers, be sure to contact your doctor before going on any diet.

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1. Why do I get a headache on Sole Source?
2. Just after starting Cambridge, I suffered from diarrhoea. Why is this?
3. Is it normal to experience euphoria on Sole Source?
4. Why am I having trouble getting the normal amount of sleep?
5. I feel thirsty sometimes. Is this normal?
6. I notice a tendency towards bad breath. Why is this?
7. Is it normal to get constipated after starting Cambridge?
8. Whenever I start Cambridge I feel nauseated. Is this normal?
9. Why did I feel dizzy a few days after starting Sole Source?
10. Why do I feel cold on the Cambridge Diet Sole Source programme?
11. What happens to skinfolds after extensive weight loss?
12. Does the Sole Source programme affect the menstrual cycle?
13. I have been on the Cambridge Diet for two weeks and am getting cramp in my legs. Is the diet causing this?
14. I have lost 19kg (3 st) on the Sole Source programme and am now experiencing some hair loss, is this due to the Cambridge Diet?
15. Could the Cambridge Diet impair vision?
16. I have developed a rash: am I allergic to the Cambridge Diet?

Why are women who are pregnant or breast feeding advised not to use the Cambridge Diet?
Pregnant and lactating women can use the Cambridge Diet as a nutritional supplement but not as their sole source of nutrition, because they may need more nutrients than other people.

Will the Cambridge Diet bring on ketosis?
The Cambridge Diet is specifically formulated with 44 grams of carbohydrates in addition to the protein and fat present. This combination produces a mild ketosis which can be a benefit to those on weight-loss programmes as it gives a slight euphoric effect while somewhat curbing the appetite.

Does the Cambridge Diet have any effect on menstrual cycle?
Rapid weight-loss with very low calorie diets may temporarily affect the menstrual cycle patterns; ovulation, however, is not interrupted. This cycle is usually corrected within a few months, as body metabolism adjusts.

I have already had one heart attack. Can I take the Cambridge Diet?
Check with your doctor before going on any diet. The Cambridge Diet is low in cholesterol, low in sodium and low in fat. It is recommended by most heart specialists.

I have had surgery for cancer. Can I take the Cambridge Diet?
There are no contra indications in using the Cambridge Diet. Scientists are looking closely at the relationship between cancer and proper nutrition, but you should check with your doctor before using the Diet.

Do I need my doctor’s consent to use the Cambridge Diet with food?
We would recommend that anyone wishing to follow any weight loss programme at any calorific level should check with their doctor first. All Cambridge customers need to complete a Medical Record Form whether they plan to use the Diet with or without food. Anyone on prescribed medications or with a medical condition and planning to use the Diet at less than 1500 Kcal per day should seek their doctor’s consent. The same contraindications for the ‘Sole Source’ programme apply to a diet of less than 1500 Kcal.

My doctor says I am clinically obese and that losing weight would improve my general health. I was surprised that my Counsellor insisted on my doctor signing the Medical Record Form. Is this correct?
We recommend that all customers, even those in perfect health, should consult their doctor before starting any weight loss programme, particularly if a doctor has not been consulted during the previous 12 months. Obesity is a significant factor in a number of medical conditions and anyone who is obese may have developed a medical condition that they are unaware of. In the case of anyone who is on prescribed medication, or is suffering from a medical condition, the counsellor will ask for the doctor's signed confirmation that the information given on the Medical Record Form is correct.

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I have diabetes and my condition is controlled by diet. Must I see a doctor before going on the Diet?
Yes. Nobody with diabetes should attempt to lose weight without being supervised by his or her doctor. There are two types of diabetes: Type 1, which is insulin dependent Type 2, which is controlled either by diet, oral medication, in some case insulin or a combination of all 3. The Cambridge Diet is not appropriate for anyone who is taking insulin.
Obesity may be associated with diabetes. An appropriate diet, with or without medication, can help by lowering blood glucose levels. Because of this, the customer must have the full agreement from their doctor or health care professional to say that they are willing to adjust medication and monitor the customer throughout the weight loss phase. Once at target weight, the doctor will reassess the patient’s needs. Again, adopting the maintenance programme is a good long-term health strategy.

What is ketosis and is it harmful?
Ketosis is another name for the ‘fat burning’ process. Once the body has used up its stored carbohydrate, it then switches to using its other energy store – unwanted fat. A ketogenic diet is very low in carbohydrate. The body’s stored fat is broken down into little fatty acid molecules called ketones and these circulate taking energy to all the tissues in the body. The Cambridge Diet has been carefully researched and formulated so that when used as ‘Sole Source’ it has just enough carbohydrate for immediate energy and none left over for storage; this induces a mild ketosis. The smallest intake of additional carbohydrate can upset this fragile balance and cause carbohydrate to be restored along with attendant water, causing a plateau or even weight gain! The mild ketosis is an intrinsic part of the design of the ‘Sole Source’ programme because it has significant benefits – it is the key to comfort for the dieter:

• It reduces the feeling of hunger – removing the temptation to err!
• It induces a sense of well-being with good energy levels

Far from being harmful, ketosis is an important safety factor – the body gets all the energy it needs from the breakdown of its fat stores, thus protecting muscle tissue and vital organs.

What is the ketone test?
This is a simple urine test which indicates the presence of ketones. The mild ketosis induced by the Cambridge Diet ensures that sufficient ketones are produced to give adequate energy with some left over which are passed into the urine. Two simple tests are available from the chemist (and at a reduced price from Cambridge Health Plan) – Ketostix and Ketur-Test. They are plastic strips with a felt tip. The tip will react and turn pink if ketones are present in the urine. Most dieters achieve ketosis after three days on the ‘Sole Source’ programme. If, after this time, a test gives a negative reading (the tip does not change colour), it is reasonable to assume that the dieter is deviating from ‘Sole Source’ and taking in extra carbohydrate. On the other hand, a positive reading (the tip turns pink) can be very motivating for someone who is in a pre-menstrual plateau. It is tangible evidence that their body is indeed still burning off fat, even though the loss is not showing on the scales.

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What is metabolic rate and can it be damaged by rapid weight loss?
The metabolic rate represents the amount of energy the body is burning – it is the rate at which calories are used. Regardless of how you diet or how often, your metabolic rate is primarily determined by how much you weigh (see next question). In all methods of dieting there is an initial small reduction in metabolic rate by about 10-15%, this phase is known as ‘diet mode’. It drops quickly when food is restricted and particularly on the ‘Sole Source’ programme, but it drops no further despite a prolonged period of further food deprivation. The metabolic rate returns to ‘normal mode’ when food intake returns to the appropriate amount for the actual energy expended to maintain the new weight. A lighter body will not need so many calories to move it round and will establish a metabolic rate appropriate to the new weight.

Is Ketosis affected by someone 5’5’, 15 stone taking three Cambridge Diet sachets and one bar daily?
The Cambridge Diet has been carefully researched and formulated to have an exact amount of carbohydrate. Enough for immediate energy but nothing left over for storage. The bars each contain 10g more of carbohydrate than do the drinks. Three drinks add up to 42.9 carbohydrate, four drinks 57.2g, three drinks plus a bar 67.6g! For those who are carbohydrate sensitive the latter combination could be enough to bring them out of ketosis with a consequent loss of benefits.

Why should blood sugar levels differ some days, when intake of diet and fluids are exactly the same for someone who is Type 2 diabetic?
Even when diet and fluid intake are the same, there are other variables to take into account. In Type 2 diabetes the pancreas is still producing some insulin, though not enough for the body’s needs, and production levels may vary. The body’s uptake of the insulin will also be variable. Exercise increases muscle uptake of glucose and therefore reduces blood glucose levels. So the timing of the blood glucose test in relation to pancreas activity, exercise, as well as medication, the last meal and stress levels is important – these can all influence blood sugar levels.
Note: oral hypoglycaemic medication should be discounted on the ‘Sole Source’ programme. VLCD lowers blood sugar levels and, combined with medication, could make them go too low. The risks from blood sugar falling too low are greater than those from temporary increased blood sugar – which will automatically drop on ‘Sole Source’, the adjustment takes place quickly.

I am using the ‘Sole Source’ programme, but have a cough and cold – what can I take?
‘Sole Source’ is not ideal for anyone who is below par. Also, cough and cold remedies contain carbohydrate which affects levels of ketosis and therefore the dieter’s comfort. The Diet can be used as a nutritious part of a light diet with plenty of clear fluids for anyone who is unwell or who is convalescing. Use any over-the-counter remedy to relieve cough and cold symptoms and then, once you are fully recovered, you can restart ‘Sole Source’.

Is it all right to continue the ‘Sole Source’ programme if giving blood?
The ‘Sole Source’ programme should not be followed for one week preceding blood donation and for one week after. In fact, a centre will refuse to take blood if they know the donor is on a very low calorie diet, because blood viscosity and volume are affected by the ‘Sole Source’ programme.

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I weigh 110 lb (50 kg) and maintain my trim figure by eating very little. I often tire easily and I wonder if I am getting proper nutrition?
Thousands of people who look trim are actually suffering from poor nutrition. They tire easily and have few energy reserves. Most of them subsist without breakfast and have very little nutritious food throughout the day. By taking the Cambridge Diet drinks three times per day along with a balanced meal, they feel altogether different. Their energy level is much higher and they are obviously in much better health.

How can the Cambridge Diet help athletes?
It provides a very good nutritional foundation for athletes whose performance is largely dependent upon their bodies receiving the precise balance of nutrients which the Cambridge Diet provides.

Why are prospective dieters always advised to consult their doctor before starting any weight loss programme?
There are two reasons: If it is some time since you last saw your doctor, you should have a check-up before starting a weight loss programme. Based on the results of this check-up and on your medical history, your GP can advise you on a suitable weight loss regime. Obesity can be a contributing factor in some medical conditions – for example high blood pressure (hypertension), maturity onset diabetes (diabetes Type II controlled by diet or tablets), gallbladder problems and varicose veins. It is as well, therefore, to consult your doctor before following a weight loss programme, so that your progress can be monitored and so that the dosage of your medication can be adjusted if necessary. Your doctor may recommend a Weight Care with Cambridge programme if he does not consider the ‘Sole Source’ programme is suitable.

Why can some people eat ‘loads’ and never gain weight, while others only have to look at a cream cake to gain pounds?
Shape, weight and where we carry body fat is influenced by our genes. Of course, exercise (or lack of it), together with what and how much we eat, does have an influence. Slim people seem to eat at regular times and rarely ‘snack’ between meals. They tend to eat healthy, low-fat foods and, because they are carrying less weight, are more active.

What is a calorie?
Food energy is traditionally measured in calories. One calorie is the amount of energy needed to raise the temperature of one gram of water by one degree centigrade. As the calorie is an extremely small unit, when referring to measurements of the energy value of food, the kilocalorie – equivalent to 1,000 kcal – is often used instead. Kilocalories are sometimes called Calories, with a capital C. In nutrition the larger units – kilocalories and megajoules – are used. Under the international system of units the kilocalorie has been replaced by the joule and food labels now quote energy values in first kilojoules and then kilocalories. A kilojoule = 0.238 kcal. eg. The energy value of a Chocolate Velvet Tetra Brik is 580KJ/137kcal.

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Overweight and obesity are two of the major health hazards of today's world. They are not new and they are not local. In a recent technical report, the World Health Organisation drew attention to the extent of the problem of obesity.

"… obesity is one of today’s most blatantly visible – yet most neglected – public health problems. Paradoxically coexisting with under-nutrition, an escalating global epidemic of overweight and obesity – "globesity" – is taking over many parts of the world. If immediate action is not taken, millions will suffer from an array of serious health disorders.
"Obesity is a complex condition, one with serious social and psychological dimensions, that affects virtually all age and socio-economic groups and threatens to overwhelm both developed and developing countries. In 1995, there were an estimated 200 million obese adults world-wide and another 18 million under-five children classified as overweight. As of 2000, the number of obese adults has increased to over 300 million. Contrary to conventional wisdom, the obesity epidemic is not restricted to industrialised societies; in developing countries, it is estimated that over 115 million people suffer from obesity-related problems."

Within the United Kingdom, the National Audit Office (NAO) produced "Tackling Obesity in England" in 2001. In their report, the NAO showed that in 1998, nearly a fifth of all adults were obese, whilst more than half the women – and two-thirds of the men – were at least overweight.

Hazards
Overweight is identified as a risk factor for a number of disorders - coronary heart disease, stroke, hypertension, diabetes, liver disorders, osteoarthritis and some forms of cancer, as well as excess risk during surgery and a range of psychological problems. It is estimated that the overall increase in mortality is approximately 15% for every 10% that a person is above their 'normal' weight.

Body Mass Index
So, how do you know what your risk level actually is, and what would be a healthy weight for you personally?
Health Professionals use a measure known as the Body Mass Index (BMI) which anyone can calculate. Alternatively, you can look up your height in our handy table (right-hand panel) to find the BMI band that your weight puts you in. Risk factors are also related to where fat is distributed in the body and the Ashwell Shape Chart © explains how to calculate your own level of risk.
To calculate your own BMI, click here.