The 5 Factor Diet was developed by Hollywood, California personal trainer Harley Pasternak. Pasternak had originally developed a 5 Factor Fitness Program that he used with his clients to assist them in sticking with an exercise routine. When he published his 5 Factor Fitness book, he included a section on diet that was also based on the number five. This section, which he called 5 Factor Fitness, caught on with his clients. He expanded the program, and published a book by the same name in 2007. The program has received attention because of the number of celebrities who have been open about the fact that Pasternak's program has enabled them to lose weight. His celebrity clients include: Alicia Keys, John Mayer, Katherine Heigl, Jessica Simpson, and Kanye West, to name a few. Details of the program are printed in his book, or can be accessed by subscription at his website.

Briefly, the program is based on the fact that you eat five times a day, and include five specified elements in each meal. Each recipe includes no more than five ingredients, and takes no more than five minutes to prepare. You are also advised to follow his 5 Factor Fitness program, working out five days a week. Celebrities rave about his program — most of them subscribe to his food delivery service, which delivers approved 5 Factor Diet meals in the Los Angeles area. The program doesn't require counting calories, and permits one "free" day a week, where dieters are permitted to cheat. Although the program is presented as a five week plan, for lasting weight loss, dieters would need to continue the diet's principles for longer than the five weeks specified by Pasternak.

1. Low-Glycemic program
2. Each meal should include:
   • Lean protein
   • Complex carbohydrates
   • Fiber
   • Healthy fats
   • Water or another sugar-free beverage

Disclaimer: The content in this page is not a substitute for professional medical advice. Please consult your doctor for more information on 5 Factor Diet.