FoodGauge is now available for iPhone, iTouch and Blackberry.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is FoodGauge?

  • FoodGauge is a revolutionary food rating system that helps you make food choices to assist in weight loss.
  • This 5-point system simplifies food labels and nutrition.
  • It was developed by Bariatricians (weight loss physicians) Robert Ziltzer, MD and Craig Primack, MD
  • FoodGauge favors food with protein and fiber, and disfavors food with carbohydrates and fat.

Why did you develop FoodGauge?

Trying to figure out if a food is going to cause weight loss or weight gain by reading a nutrition label is confusing.  We made it simple! A single score tells you what you need to know.  It is available for iPhone and iTouch through iTunes or direct download, and Blackberry through App World. 

What types of foods will be highly rated?

Foods that are high in protein and/or fiber will rank highly.  This includes lean meats, chicken, fish, eggs, and nonfat cheeses, as well as vegetables and low sugar fruits.  Many high protein, low-carb entrees will be highly rated. 

What types of foods will receive a low rating?

Foods that are high in sugars (carbs) and/or fat will be poorly rated.  This includes baked sweet products, candy, butters and oils, most cereals.  Sticking to lean proteins, vegetables and fruits will assist in making proper choices.

How does it work?

Enter nutrition label information in the calculator.  Enter grams per serving for the serving sizes you plan to eat:  fat, carbohydrates, fiber and protein.  Pressing "next" advances to the next field.  When you have entered all of the fields, pressing, "calculate" gives you the FoodGauge© result at the bottom of the screen.

 

Food Gauage data entry screen Food Gauage result screen

 

How do I interpret the results?

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Eat these foods freely.  They are most likely to assist in weight loss.   Remember that overeating multiple servings of even the highest rated foods may lead to weight gain.

 

food gauage result 3

 

Eat these foods in moderation.

food gauage result 2food gauage result 1

 

Eat these foods sparingly.  They will likely lead to weight gain.

How do I lose weight?

Always consult with your physician prior to and during any weight loss program.   Your doctor will advise you of any special considerations you have, and which medications you will need to have adjusted during weight loss. 

  • Drink 64 oz of non-caloric or diet beverages daily. Water is best. Do not drink more than a gallon daily without discussing with your physician.
  • Eat plenty of vegetables and fruits, to provide the nutrients you need. Vary the types of foods you eat.
  • Choose as many as possible foods that are FoodGauge score of 4 and 5.
  • Eat 5 small meals daily, best taken every 3 hours. Always eat breakfast.
  • Adequate sleep is critical, 7 hours minimum.
  • Begin a regular exercise program, to consist of walking, treadmill, elliptical machine, biking, swimming, dancing, or weight training. Start 5-10 minutes every day, and increase by 2 minutes each day. Aim for 45 minutes daily, at least 5 days per week.
  • Our patients find the best way to keep off your weight and retain your new health is to stay active.
  • A combination of proper food plan, with good exercise and proper sleep is the best way to lose weight. Good exercise is the most important factor in weight maintenance. Gradually increase to 4-6 hours weekly of activity. Always call your doctor immediately or call 911 if you experience chest pain, shortness of breath, light headedness or palpitations at any time.
  • Take a multivitamin daily, to assure you are getting all of the vitamins and minerals you need.
  • If you are having difficulty losing weight on your own, or live in Arizona consult a weight loss doctor.

How do I treat sugar alcohols?

Sugar alcohols are considered like fiber.  Add the grams of fiber and sugar alcohols together and enter in the fiber field.