We've tested countless diets and weight loss trends—but which ones deliver real results? Our Santé magazine editors share their firsthand experiences in the April issue. One standout approach proved so effective, we had to share it with you.
Susanne, marketing intern
Height: 1.67 m
Starting weight: 57.5 kg
Weight after: 55 kg (-2.5 kg)
Diet tested: A Grip on Carbohydrates by Yvonne Lemmers
Price: €22.50 for the core book, €17.95 for the cookbook
This program allows for varied, satisfying meals, making it easy to stick with. As Yvonne Lemmers explains, fatigue and low energy often result from excess carbohydrates and insufficient fats. With my long workdays and frequent travel, I often defaulted to bread for dinner. Cutting that out brought quick changes: more steady energy and far less bloating, which Lemmers attributes to carb overload.
The Grip on Carbohydrates (GOK) method uses a traffic-light system: green list (unlimited), orange (moderate), and red (avoid). As a vegetarian already favoring green foods like veggie meat substitutes, vegetables, and cheese, this suited me perfectly. Bread's off-limits, but low-carb alternatives from Fijnlijntje.nl taste just as good—though pricier.
The plan emphasizes fresh ingredients over packaged foods (a habit I already had), and the cookbook plus Lemmers' tips make preparing diverse, low-carb meals simple. Fewer carbs meant less hunger, easing adherence. The goal? A healthier way of eating for better comfort in my skin. I feel slimmer, less bloated, fitter, and more energetic.
Nutrition coach Amber Albarda's verdict:
"This is an excellent way to break carb addiction—common if you crave sweets post-meal. It helped Susanne by swapping bread for proper dinners, boosting her fitness with balanced evening meals."
The Grip on Carbohydrates method offers online support at www.gripopkoolhydraten.nl.
Read more about Santé's April issue
