Food Combination Diet

Full Name: The Food Combination Diet

Origin: Originally created in the early 1900's by Dr. Herbert M. Shelton, this diet continues to be revised and reintroduced

Description: Separating certain foods to aid your body in digestion

Likes: Fruits, vegetables, lean meats, eggs and whole wheat pasta

Dislikes: Beans, legumes, pulses (chickpeas, lentils, etc.) and any food options that combine carbs with protein

Looking for: A dieter who is willing to put a lot of effort into following a plan

Works Well With: The Food Combining Companion (to keep track of the foods you eat)

The food combination diet is based on the theory that certain foods aren't digested properly when eaten together. Originally developed in the 1900's, the food combining theory has been updated and revised for over 100 years. Its basic theory suggests that eating certain foods in specific combinations will better aid the body in digestion, which will lead to weight loss.

The main principle of this weight loss diet prohibits the mixing of protein with carbohydrates. You must wait at least four hours between eating protein and carbs - which completely rules out pizza and spaghetti as meal options. Here are a few of the other rules of the diet:

. Fruit must be eaten on its own

. Don't have milk with carbs or protein

. Beans, legumes and pulses are not permitted, as they combine protein with carbs

. Food can't be too hot or too cold

This weight loss diet is a little complex for the average person. Every particle of food that you put in your mouth must be well thought out, making it difficult to eat meals at restaurants or parties. Besides, there is no firm scientific evidence showing this diet will help you lose weight.