GOAL… Weight loss
KCal Extra Success Programme
Tester: Elizabeth Elphick
What is it? Based on the Paleo (cavewoman) diet, Kcal combines lean meats, seafood, fruit, veg and nuts. The Extra Success Programme (1,200-1,500 calories) is for weight loss and focuses on moderate portion sizes, balanced carbs and protein and limited saturated fats. You can choose a five, six or seven-day meal plan and all include breakfast, lunch, dinner and two snacks. Choose the Set To Go package (just meals and delivery) or the Personalised package, which includes a consultation, a follow-up session, blood tests and body composition analysis for a bespoke diet.
Why I tried it My eating habits were erratic - healthy one week, unhealthy the next - so I wanted to be prompted back into a sensible routine, as well as lose a few kilos.
The preparation After completing an online form, listing my food dislikes, a consultant called me the same day to schedule a consultation. I gave blood to be tested for cholesterol and sugar levels, and though I was fine, Kcal says 60 per cent of clients have high cholesterol. The nutritionist provided me with printouts of my body's fat percentage, fat-distribution patterns, and so on. Two days later I received an email listing all of my meals and snacks - they choose every meal for you - for the next 28 days. I was asked to approve each item and given the option to request changes.
Th experience For the first few days I was hungry, but I soon adapted and found the portions adequate. The food was more restaurant fare than home cooking thanks to the attention to detail - salads had gourmet extras like pomegranate seeds. The fruit and veg were fresh and juicy and the chicken tasted better than from a supermarket. Meals were delivered in a durable ice-pack bag and delivery was reliable, between 6.30-8.30pm every evening. Sauces and dressings came in individual packs, so nothing was ever soggy, and it all came in microwaveable containers.
Did it work? Within the 28 days of the plan, I lost 3.4kg and that was without exercise. The plan made me realise that the portions I used to eat were too large. The best thing was the hours saved by not having to shop, wash dishes or wake up early to prepare my food. If I add the cost of take-aways/eating out and impulse buys to my normal grocery bill, I would save money on the plan. The support from the consultant was top-notch. I would choose a five- or six-day plan next time though as having one day off means you can socialise and enjoy the psychological benefit of freedom of choice.
The details Dh3,345 for the seven-day plan, Dh2,950 for the six-day plan or Dh2,550 for the five-day plan (including consultation and blood test). www.kcalextra.com
The extras Other programmes include Wellness (1,600-1,800 calories) and Athlete (1,800-2,500). You can pay for extras, such as a fitness programme and/or food intolerance test.
My typical menu
Breakfast: Oats, walnuts and strawberries; egg white omelette with mushrooms.
Morning snack: Mixed nuts; strawberries; watermelon.
Lunch: Chicken tandoori wrap; tuna salad; chicken salad; Casablanca salad.
Afternoon snack: Olives and feta; almonds; walnuts.
Dinner: Beef lasagna; breaded chicken breast with sweet potato mash and green beans; Teriyaki salmon and steamed vegetables.
GOAL…To control blood sugar
Healthtrendz Diabetic Meal Plan
Tester: Naheed Akram
What is it? The healthy meal delivery initiative of the Dubai World Trade Centre, Healthtrendz offers a variety of plans from an award-winning team of gourmet chefs. The Diabetic Meal Plan I chose provides healthy and nutritious meals to limit the consumption of over-processed foods and processed sugars, keeping your blood-sugar levels in the target range. The plan consists of small, frequent meals (breakfast and hot beverage, two snacks, lunch, dinner and a workout snack) with an even distribution of carbs throughout the day. Plus, meals are high in fibre (think brown rice and wholewheat bread/pasta), lots of veggies, low-cholesterol foods, low salt content and low GI fruits.
Why I tried it To help control my blood sugar levels and avoid the onset of diabetes. I have no discipline when it comes to desserts, especially mid-afternoon, and tend to grab a cupcake or chocolate bar, which are packed with sugar.
The preparation I had a consultation with the head nutritionist, where we discussed potential meal-plan options for those with high blood sugar levels, portion sizes, and the amount of carbs and sugar allowed. A menu was sent at the end of each week and I made a selection of my preferred meal options for the following week. My meal plan was delivered to me six days a week excluding Fridays. I received each meal the evening before, between 7-10pm - service was efficient, the food fresh and tightly packed in good-quality containers.
The experience My main concern was that the meals wouldn't be enough to fulfil my needs, especially my sweet cravings, but the nutritionist incorporated a ‘work-out snack', which proved a great energy boost after my gym session, plus afternoon treats like sultana and spice scones with sugar-free jam, which were tasty and fulfilled my desire for sweets. I even got dessert with dinner every day. Veggies played a huge role in this plan, with every main meal served with grilled vegetables or a salad. I was surprised by the variety of meals and snacks available, so I didn't feel restricted or as if I was missing out on tasty food or treats. I loved that I got beverages, both at breakfast and with my afternoon snack.
Did it work? It really helped educate me about what I can and cannot eat to maintain balanced glucose levels and the importance of portion control. I feel less lethargic, too, and I've saved not only masses of time, but also quite a bit of money. It's a great idea for those wanting to make a quick and effective change in their eating habits.
The details Dh2,715 for a 24-day meal plan, six days a week. Call 04-308 6338. Email healthtrendz@dwtc.com to make an appointment.
The extras Other meal packages from Healthtrendz include Miracle, to help lose weight; Titan, to help support fitness regimes; Baby Love, for healthy eating during pregnancy; The Come Back, for post-pregnancy weight loss; Serenity, for busy executives; and Super Heroes, for healthy eating for kids.
My typical menu
Breakfast: Quinoa with fruit; grilled halloumi and vegetables in wholemeal panini.
Beverages (morning and afternoon): Peppermint tea; black tea; coffee.
Morning snack: Strawberry and grape salad; pear.
Lunch: Mexican chilli chicken; herby grilled salmon on a bed of mushrooms and courgettes; barley asparagus pilaf with a Greek salad; Shish Taowk with harrah sauce and a mixed garden salad; grilled chicken with feta salad.
Afternoon snack: Sultana and spice scones with sugar-free jam; mixed fruit tarts; passion fruit salad; mixed vegetable chips; exotic fruit salad.
Dinner: Chinese veal with oyster sauce and vegetables; herby grilled BBQ fish kebabs
with roasted vegetables; veggie bake with quinoa salad, tomatoes and cucumbers.
Plus desserts: Vanilla cake with low-fat custard.
Work out snack: Extend snack bars; low-fat chocolate fudge cake.
GOAL… Eat gluten-free easily
Right Bite Full Package
Tester: Kate Birch
What is it? Tailor-made packages to help you lose weight, increase energy levels, improve cholesterol or control blood-sugar levels. Meals are low in fat, salt, sugar and calories, with the option to cater to vegetarians and intolerances without extra charge. It has a number of packages, including full-day meals; morning (breakfast, snack and lunch); afternoon (lunch; snack and dinner); and one-meal only, which can be tried for as little as a week. Included is a Body Composition Analysis (BCA), consultation and two follow-ups.
Why I tried it Having recently been diagnosed with a gluten intolerance, I've been struggling with how to eat healthily and still enjoy tasty food the gluten-free way after living for years on a heavy bread- and pasta-based diet.
The preparation The initial consultation involved a BCA, which showed I didn't need to lose weight, but needed to increase my muscle mass. Using this and my main goal - to eat well without gluten - the nutritionist created a 1,400-calorie-a-day plan, spreading the calories throughout all eight meals (for example, breakfast 250 calories; lunch 500 calories, and so on). She also gave me extra tips to help support my customised plan: to eat my last meal by 7pm and to eat every three hours. She provided me with a helpful list, based on my weight, of the amount of calories I'd burn for 25 different physical activities. I was then sent a two-week menu via email to select options before delivery started.
The experience The menus were different every day - not only a variety of cuisines (there was always an Arabic, Indian and European option), but there were plenty of choices: five for lunch and four for dinner. Meals were varied and tasty, from yummy soups to interesting salads and wholesome main meals. New dishes were also introduced weekly, keeping those on the diet for a long time satisfied. Everything was individually packaged, including cutlery/napkins, all delivered in an ice-pack bag to my destination.
Did it work? As someone not used to eating regularly, getting used to small but frequent eating was tough at first, but once in the habit, I began to feel more energetic. It also helped me eat more fruit as it was prepared, fresh, juicy and convenient. Apart from the breakfasts, which were a little dull (mainly gluten-free bread), the food options were varied and interesting - I was surprised at how tasty gluten-free food can be. Each dish was individually packaged, with extras like lemon slices for the fish or homemade vinaigrette for the salads, and all came with individual calorie counts (which helped educate me) and heating instructions. I just banged it in the microwave and ate. Meals were delivered on time to different locations, as requested. What I loved most with this meal plan was that you buy it based on days, so you can freeze days to carry over if you are travelling or want a day off. I lost 800g of fat and increased my muscle mass.
The details Full six-day package over 24 days, Dh2,850 and upon renewal, Dh2,650. www.right-bite.com
The extras It offers a Travel Box: one-to-two full days of food while travelling, plus a Skinny Delites menu, with low-fat, low-sugar, low-calorie treats (from muffins to Arabic sweets) to cater to parties or groups.
My typical menu
Breakfast: Wheat-free bread with honey, peanut butter or cream cheese.
Breakfast beverage: Low-fat yoghurt; low-fat Laban.
Morning snack: Orange slices; watermelon or pineapple; hot fruit compote.
Lunch: Teriyaki fish with egg noodles; chicken biriyani; Irish beef stew with rice.
Side dishes: Pumpkin soup; steamed veg; courgettes; roasted eggplant with feta.
Afternoon snack: Spicy nuts; crudités with hummus; feta and grape kebabs.
Dinner: Beef moussaka; Italian fish with risotto; chicken/pepper casserole.
GOAL… Learn healthy eating habits
Live'ly Healthy Cuisine Balance ProgramME
Tester: Gemma Jones
What is it? A well-balanced and portion-controlled plan, with homemade nutritional dishes from a variety of cuisines, including Asian and Western. There are five package options including all-day meals, executive lunch, and a family package. They use fresh ingredients, like lean beef and only vegetable oil and natural fruit sugar (fructose) in desserts. You can choose a programme based on your goals - there are seven, including two weightloss options. Although I followed the weight management Balance plan, it was customised to my healthy eating (rather than weightloss) goals, and you can opt for either Standard or Gourmet - the latter includes a wider variety of food and menu choices.
Why I tried it My job as a stylist means I have a hectic schedule and spend lots of time in the malls or on shoots, so I grab snacks on the go and it's usually fast food. I eat at odd and inconsistent times. I also don't drink enough water, mainly living on juices or coffee.
The preparation I began with a Live'ly consultation, which included a discussion with a dietician and a full body assessment (BMI and fat/muscle stats). She then proposed 1,200 calories a day, plus bottles of water, as my hydration levels were low, plus advice on exercise to reap more benefits. I was given vast daily menus from which to choose my meals and the meals began the next day. The main hurdle was delivery as I couldn't guarantee being in the same place each day at the same time. The Live'ly team were helpful and we worked out a pick-up system.
The experience Chilled meals were provided in a cool bag, with each one well presented with heating instructions. I also had bottles of mineral water to help me stay hydrated, and a cutlery pack with seasonings. I was surprised at the amount of food (although quite a lot of that was salad-based) and how appetising it looked. Not only was it tasty, but I still got to eat chocolate as an afternoon snack and peanut butter for breakfast, although these were smaller than I'd usually have. I felt full from all meals, and didn't feel the need to cheat, although the nutritionist offered to send extra healthy snacks across for me if I felt like cheating. I loved the varied fruit options as I struggle to eat enough fruit normally.
Did it work? It was a great kick-start to starting healthy eating habits - I was able to regulate my eating hours and got my full five a day and other dietary requirements without stressing or calorie counting. The meal plan made me realise how little and badly (processed, fatty foods) I ate before and that I could eat more, but eat well and consistently and still lose weight. I'll definitely be making better food choices in future! It was also varied - Live'ly change the menu weekly - so I didn't get bored. I lost around 1.5kg, as well as 2cm from my waist, hips and thighs, and I also increased my hydration levels, creating good habits for the future. It made my life easier as I didn't have to worry about calorie counting or getting food, but due to never been in one place at any given times, delivery wasn't always convenient. It's ideal for office-based people, or those with family to receive deliveries.
The details Dh3,800 for Gourmet Menu, Dh3,300 for Standard Menu – both inclusive of full meal package for 28 days, consultation, full body composition analysis and regular follow-ups. Call 04-3481008, www.lively.ae
The extras Other packages include: Cure, for specific medical conditions; Boost, to help boost your metabolism; 6Pack, to improve athletic performance and muscle mass; Venus, for pregnant, breastfeeding or menopausal women; Delicat, for allergies or intolerances; and Earth, for those who want 100 per cent organic ingredients.
My typical menu
Breakfast: Pancakes with honey; cereal with milk.
Morning snack: Seasonal salad; Fattoush salad; cabbage, tomato and cucumber salad.
Lunch: Thai beef with pumpkin and rice; creamy chicken pasta; baked fish in tahini with potatoes.
Afternoon snack: Chocolate almond biscotti; Lazy cake; dates and sesame rectangles;
apple pastry with almonds.
Dinner: Steak strips with grilled vegetables; lemon thyme chicken sandwich with soup and salad; tarragon tuna salad with cheese and bread.
More meal plans
DinnerTime For those who like cooking, but haven't time to plan meals or get to the supermarket, DinnerTime (www.dinnertime.me) is a great Dubai-based option. It delivers the ingredients and recipes to your door, so you can rustle up a home-cooked, nutritious and balanced meal for all the family. For Dh380 a week, you get recipes and ingredients for four dinners for four people. Each weekly menu includes one meat, one chicken, one fish and one vegetarian/pasta option, with recipes easy to make (around 30 minutes). SMS 055-1031141.
Detox Delight This offers juice and soup cleansing plans delivered to your door. Supporting the release of body toxins and providing an energy boost, the programmes have been developed by nutritionists, detox experts and raw food chefs, using regionally grown and organic produce, as well as effective superfoods like spirulina, barley grass and aloe vera. The Juice Delight Plan provides five 500ml fruit and veg juices and one 250ml flavoured nut milk daily, while the Juice and Soup Delight Plan includes a soup each day - choose five days (Dh2,750) or 12 days (Dh6,520). Visit: www.detox-delight.ae.
