Basic Tenets of Fit for Life (at least how I apply them)

Originally posted to myfitnesspal.com on 8/14/11


Fit for Life is not just a great overall principle for adopt for life long health, but it also a term coined by Harvey Diamond in a series of diet and lifestyle books over the last 25 years that stem from the principles of natural hygeine.  The ideas are rooted in naturopathic medicine and espouse a diet to enhance the overall efficiency and health of the digestive system and thus its owner.  The theories, and Diamond's background, aren't without their controversies, but I have found the basic tenets to be very effective in supporting overall health and fitness, especially for vegetarians.  

I must admit that I have only read the first book and that was several years ago but it is the publication that really outlnes the ideas of natural hygiene and provides the guidelines for eating.  I have summarized them below but would suggest picking up a copy of the first book to anyone who is truly interested in learning more.  

Eat the right foods at the right times in the right combinations

1. 80% of dietary intake (by volume) should be live, high water content foods, e.g., fresh fruits & vegetables
2. Eat foods at the right time of day
   • Elimination Phase            0400 - 1200          Fruit Only
   • Acquisition Phase            1200 - 2000          No Restrictions
   • Assimilation Phase           2000 - 0400          Nothing

  3.   Eat foods in the right combinations

• Fruit shouldn't be combined with any other food groups
• Complex food groups (e.g., meats, complex carbs) shouldn't be combined with each other
• Dairy (if consumed at all) shouldn't be combined with any other food groups

As a vegetarian, I have found that it is easiest to follow the guidelines by sticking to a mostly vegan diet.  However, nutritional supplements may be necessary to ensure ingestion of the proper amount of Calcium.   I usually throw in a veggie egg beater omelet or some cheese on my salad every once in a while to make sure I'm nutritionally balanced.  The latter isn't strictly sticking to the plan but all things in moderation.