Hello. My name is Jayne Charles and I am the Program Coordinator at The Rice Diet Program in Durham NC. The Rice Diet Message Board that you are about to enter is a self-moderating, free forum for those trying a wellness program at home, for previous patients who have participated in the Program in Durham, NC and for those simply getting started and looking for help. (You can read posts without registering at our website but you must register in order to post your comments, thoughts and ideas.)

The purpose of this forum is to encourage group support, the sharing of ideas, questions, comments and even your salt free/low sodium recipes. It's also a wonderful way to get to know others with common goals and interests. In addition, studies show that people who are surrounded with support tend to keep weight off more effectively.

When patients attend the Rice Diet Program in Durham, they consult with medical staff on a daily basis in order to monitor their rapid weight loss. Phase One of the Rice Diet Program which consists of fruit and grains is designed as a treatment phase for patients that are attending the Program. Phase 2, the modified diet, consists of fruits, grains vegetables, beans, and olive oil with small amounts of non-fat dairy and seafood (& lean meats), which is what patients are directed to eat when they return home. We encourage you to talk to your local Doctor prior to making any lifestyle change. Especially if you are taking medications as they might need to be reduced or eliminated.

Our Program Director, Cardiologist Dr. Robert Rosati along with his wife, dietitian Kitty Rosati, co-authored the book "The Rice Diet Solution" (released January 2006 by Simon & Schuster). This book explains how our program works integrating nutrition, exercise, meditation, yoga and journalizing. Inspirational testimonials by past Rice Diet participants describe how the physical, emotional, and spiritual program has changed the way they live and has given them new vitality, energy and longevity. The book includes daily meal plans, a sample food journal and over 100 recipes.

Kitty's has also authored "Rice Diet Recipes," originated from the whole Rice Diet community --clinic and forum participants, Rice Diet staff and friends, Program cooking schools, and our very own Rice Diet kitchen. The book "Heal Your Heart, The New Rice Diet Program for Reversing Heart Disease thru Nutrition, Exercise, and Spiritual Renewal" outlines The Rice Diet Program's philosophy to eat a whole foods diet that is low in saturated fats, sodium and refined sugars and has over 170 recipes. The book explains the many reasons why this simple a diet promotes health and prevents many diseases.

These books can be very helpful in explaining the guidelines of this lifestyle change and can be found at your local library, local bookstores or our website, www.ricedietstore.com.

As with any diet, exercise is an important part of overall health. Patients on The Rice Diet Program are encouraged to walk as the best form of exercise, whether if be in a pool or dry land -- do what works best for you. Our medical staff cautions: do not get short of breath. Go slow but steady!

We will monitor this FORUM daily and try and answer as many of the questions as possible. We hope this area makes your journey towards a healthy lifestyle a bit easier. Feel free to email us directly with suggestions, ideas or comments. You can reach me directly at jayne@ricediet.com. Thank you and best of health in your journey!