The Programme, week 4: Nutritionist's comments

Matthew Lovell: Jo has stuck really well to the low-starch carbohydrate plan she was on for two weeks (avoiding root vegetables, bread and cereals). She's definitely feeling a reduction in weight, having lost two-and-a-half pounds in the last week. Her mood and energy levels have fluctuated a little and we are going to include a little extra carbohydrate from starchy sources, such as porridge, wholemeal toast, at breakfast as she'll use these energy-dense carbohydrates up over the course of a day. Her training appears to be going well too, with extra running feeling good. Progressing well.

Both Alex and Jo find the diet much easier knowing that the other person is also going through roughly the same experience. Often embarking on this type of diet can be quite difficult and potentially isolating without the right type of support from your peers and professionals as well.