What: USN Ultralean Diet Whey
How Much: $22.99 for 450g or $39.99 for 900g, available from pharmacies Australia-wide.
The promise: Reduces body fat while maintaining lean muscle tissue
The verdict: Having developed something of a paunch and with the prospect of a three-week skiing holiday ahead of him, the ‘Bella Guinea Pig’ (who will now be referred to as the BGP) was nervous about fitting into his ski pants. With only limited time to lose weight whilst preparing for an active holiday, a strict diet of protein shakes offered the ideal solution.
Ultralean Diet Whey from USN promises to reduce body fat whilst maintaining lean muscle. A low-GI, low-kJ weight loss supplement, Ultralean Diet Whey is high in whey protein, fibre and other essential nutrients that, when combined, are said to help minimise the likelihood of hunger pangs or sudden drops in energy levels. It sounded like the perfect option. The Ultralean blend consists of epigallocatechin gallate (a potent antioxidant found in green tea), N-acetyl-l-carnitine, Hydroxycitric Acid (HCA), plenty of fibre and lots of bio-available calcium.
Available in chocolate and strawberry flavours, the BGP found both quite palatable. This was good news as, for 18 days, the protein shakes replaced both breakfast and lunchtime meals. An afternoon snack of fresh fruit supplemented the diet, and a normal evening meal concluded each day’s food intake. Indeed, the shake was very filling and kept the BGP away from the biscuit tin. Even better, the diet provided enough energy to continue training four times per week in preparation for the impending ski trip.
Overall, the BGP was extremely pleased with the results. Over the course of 18 days, he lost a total of 3kgs, and 4cm from the waist.
There were, however, a few notable side-affects, which are typical for a diet low in carbs and high in protein. These included an occasional headache as well as mild halitosis. On the plus side, there was no disruption to bowel habits. The BGP found the shakes easy to prepare and the structure of the diet was easy to stick to.
With the ski trip now behind him, the BGP enjoyed the diet so much he plans on using the shakes for just a few more weeks to shed those final few kilos.
