The diet

One of the surprising principles in the Sonoma Diet is, "to lose weight, you have to love to eat."

This is contrary to the requirements of other fad diets, which usually deprive dieters from eating certain foods.

Gutterson, a registered dietitian, culinary professional and nutrition consultant to the renowned Culinary Institute of America in New York, describes the diet as "a uniquely flavorful weight-loss plan that brings together the art and science of food, combining the latest knowledge from the world of nutritional research with culinary arts."

The diet’s roots can be found not in the lab, but in two agriculturally abundant regions of the world: the fertile coast of the Mediterranean Sea and California’s lush Sonoma Valley.

These two sun-drenched regions, Gutterson said in Sonomadiet.com, have something in common besides their climate: "They share a festive approach to eating—a heartfelt love of great food that turns every meal into a celebration of life."

On the Early Show aired January 4 on CBS News (www.cbsnews.com), Gutterson explains: "The diet is a healthy way of eating where you’re enjoying meals, often with a glass of wine. But it adds a weight-loss component . . . Flavor is part of health, and it’s part of losing weight successfully. . . . And when you’re eating nutrient-rich foods that are flavorful, you’re more satisfied and you’re not going to be hungry."

Gutterson adds: "There are no foods that you’re not going to be able to have on this diet. It isn’t about deprivation. It’s a celebration of foods that becomes a way of eating for life."

Besides easy-to-prepare recipes (Steak and Blue Cheese Wrap, Chile Mint Burgers, Greek Pizza, Peachy Berry Cobbler) with wine pairings to boot, Gutterson’s book lists down what she calls as 10 Power Foods that are both nutritious and tasty.

These are whole grains, which are filling and fibrous; almonds and other nuts that has "a healthy type of fat for your heart;" olive oil; and lots of fruits and vegetables including tomatoes, grapes and peppers.

The diet also consists of three phases which Gutterson calls "Waves." These outline the foods a dieter can enjoy while eliminating his cravings for unhealthy food. As he progresses, the food he can enjoy becomes broader until he reaches his desired weight and is given the free hand to customize his diet.

While the Sonoma Diet still hasn’t earned much publicity in the Philippines, it has already sparked the interests of weight watchers across America. But with a more tolerant approach to eating than the recent and much stricter diet craze, South Beach, Guttersen’s method may soon create a following in the country. After all, it is the only diet that promotes eating foods in their right amount and balance.