I follow it loosely and not closely enough or I would be dropping weight...I pretty much maintain. If it is what your body needs, it is very healthy. If it is not, it would not be healthy. I personally thrive on fats and do very poorly on starchy carbs. Have your insulin levels..as well as your blood sugar..measured. You can have all the green vegetables you want. It is not at all hard to follow if that is what your body needs and I personally have no side effects. If you eat the wrong foods for your body type, of course you will have a hard time. If you have high insulin levels and/or are diabetic, nature is telling you to reduce empty carbs..not vegetables. Fruits..not in excess and it depends. If there are good doctors recommending it for SOME people in your area, pay them a visit. There are many people thriving, losing weight, lowering their blood sugar, etc. It is not for everyone. Neither is a high rice diet right for everyone. Depends on your metabolism. But you can at least get rid of starchy carbs and see how that does.