Frequently Asked Diet Questions

Healthy Eating can seem complicated; here are the answers to our most asked questions.

How does it work?

Diet Designs is the "original", personalized food delivery program that combines fresh, flavorful cuisine with health conscious preparations and portion control. Each menu is properly calibrated for your specific caloric needs and food preferences. We use Prime Beef, Wild Seafood, and Free Range Poultry without any added hormones or antibiotics. Organic grains, legumes, and seasonal fruits and vegetables make up our sides and salads. You'll never find artificial sweeteners, dyes, preservatives or processed foods in our signature recipes. Our Goal is to not only help you achieve your ideal weight but to transform your eating habits for a lifetime of optimal health and well being.

When do I get my deliveries?

• The 5-day program arrives in two weekly deliveries. Monday and Wednesday's by 3 PM. (Clients that live out of State receive their shipments via Federal Express Priority Overnight, Tuesday and Thursday by 10:30AM)
• Clients enrolled in the 7-day program have the option of two or three weekly deliveries. These are delivered Monday, Wednesday, and Friday by 3PM. (Clients that live out of State receive their shipments via Federal Express Priority Overnight, Tuesday, Thursday, and Saturday by 10:30AM)
• We encourage you to arrange to have someone available at your shipping address to receive and refrigerate your delivery. If this is not possible, we leave your meals in an insulated cooler bag with ice packs. (Federal Express clients may need to make arrangements with the carrier to leave the shipment without a signature.)

What is included in each delivery?

• Monday's Delivery: Monday's Dinner through Wednesday's Lunch
• Wednesday's Delivery: Wednesday's Dinner through Saturday's Lunch
• Friday's Delivery (7 day clients only):Friday's Dinner through Monday's Lunch

What is a "Life Pack"?

Your first delivery will include a "Life Pack" Binder. In it, you will find all the information you will need to make Diet Designs work for you, including: Storage and Reheating Instructions, Snack and Market Lists, Restaurant Guidelines, Information on Pricing and Policies, and much more.

How do you determine the amount of calories I should consume daily? Or How do you determine what type of diet I should be on?

We take into consideration your, age, weight, height, genetics, and exercise regimen to determine your personal energy equation which calculates your optimal calorie intake. The ratio of Protein, Carbohydrate, and Fat is unique to your personal preferences and goals. We tailor your diet based on the foods you prefer, including vegan, vegetarian, and gluten free menus.

What if I am under a Doctor's care for a specific medical condition?

Diet Designs will collaborate with your medical doctor to implement the best-prescribed diet for you. We specialize in programs that target health issues such as diabetes, heart disease, digestive disorders, and pregnancy.

How much weight will I lose each week?

Each person is different, both in terms of body chemistry and adapting to a new lifestyle. Most people should expect to shed one to three pounds per week. This will be healthy weight loss, not the loss of temporary water weight or critical muscle mass which are common results of many fad diets. If you begin to plateau, contact one of our nutritionists so that we can adjust your plan.

Will I be hungry?

Absolutely not! Combining low calories with nutrient dense foods, along with properly spaced meals and snacks, stabilizes blood sugar and satisfies hunger, while you burn fat. If you are feeling hungry, please call our office so that we can adjust your caloric intake.

Can I go to Restaurants and Social Events and stay on the program?

Of course you can! We realize that many people dine out socially as well as for business. Your "Life Pack" includes healthy menu options for National Chain Restaurants and Restaurants exclusive to the Los Angeles area. Have a favorite restaurant? Send us the menu and we will select a healthy entrée for you. Our comprehensive guidelines for Restaurant and Social dining enable you to take your healthy eating habits anywhere you go!

What should I drink? Can I drink alcohol?

Water&elips; two liters for women and three liters for men, but never with your meals as it will negatively affect the absorption of vital nutrients in your food. You may drink alcohol in moderation. We recommend no more than 2-3 times per week. Remember that it is high in sugar, so replace one snack with one alcoholic beverage. Limit caffeinated coffee and tea to one serving each day. If you add cream or sugar, count it as one of your snacks.

How do I heat my meals?

Most dishes are easily heated in the microwave for just a few minutes. You may also reheat in the oven at 350 degrees or in a pan on the stove top until heated thoroughly. Your first delivery will include detailed instructions on how to heat and store your meals properly.

Can I freeze my meals?

Yes, you may freeze your meals. Just wrap the container in plastic wrap and place in the freezer. To defrost, place in the refrigerator a couple hours before cooking.

What if I need to take a break from the program?

At Diet Designs there are NO CONTRACTS. If you would like to cancel, resume, or make changes to your Meal Plan you must contact our office in writing, by fax or e-mail by the following deadlines:

• Friday at noon for your Monday delivery.
• Monday at noon for your Wednesday delivery.
• Wednesday at noon for your Friday delivery.
• Any cancellations made after the above deadlines will result in a charge for the ENTIRE DELIVERY.

How do I return my cooler bag and ice packs?

Simply leave them outside your door for one of our drivers to pick up on your next delivery day. If you forget, please call our office for us to arrange to have someone get them on another day. Unreturned cooler bags will result in a $25.00 charge per bag.