What do you think about a "cheat" meal once a week--where you don't go totally crazy, but are able to eat pretty much what you want at that meal?  I've read that this can help to boost your metabolism (as long as it's used as intended and doesn't carry over through the rest of the day's meals, etc.).  Is there any science to back-up this claim?  If so, what guidelines should be followed?

Thanks in advance : )

I know what you're referring to but I don't know that there's enough evidence to substantiate it.  It's kind of on the theory of "challenging" your metabolism, etc.

Personally, I have reservation about it because, it carries the risk of exactly what you mentioned: carrying over to the next meal, or day and could starts to develop a pattern of overeating. 

I think it's really, really important (partly because I used to be obese) to maintain structure to eating and activity patterns while losing weight AND for at least a year after.  The goal (to me) is to reinforce sensible eating styles that carry over for permanent maintenance.

In addition, the issue with alli is the fat.  Skipping the capsule doesn't always work for a meal the same day.  If someone has a slow digestive tract, they may need to stop 24 to 48 hours before in order not to have TE's.

I hope this helps.  Please let me know if you need anything else.

Pat Baird, MA, RD, registered dietitian

Thanks for getting back to me, Pat!  I completely understand your concerns with this, and share them.  It's interesting that there's not enough available evidence to back this claim, considering how many articles there are in women's magazines that extoll the virtues of a cheat meal.  Glad I asked before incorporating this into my routine!  Good point about TE's from alli still in your system from earlier in the day or the day before-- that alone would keep me from doing it! 

 Thanks : )

 Glad it helped.  Let me know if you need anything else.

Pat