The Human Being Diet

Photo credit Miroslava Mistrikova-Ambala

How it started

After almost twenty years in private practice, where I specialised in weight loss, skin and digestive disorders, I was oversubscribed. I was having to turn people away, and many of the people who wanted to come and see me couldn’t afford the hourly rates, or the fees for bespoke nutrition programmes. I felt a disconnect - it felt unfair.  

I realised that the answer was to democratise the process by writing a book. A book, in which the knowledge and experience I’d gained from working one to one with people, could be shared in an affordable way with all. A way for everyone to be able to transform their lives by embracing a new way of eating, whether plant-based, vegetarian or omnivore.

Photo credit Miroslava Mistrikova-Ambala

How it's going

There was, and still is, so much unhelpful advice and misinformation about health, and weight loss in particular. The proof of that is borne out by the number of diet books on the market, and the supplements that promise effortless weight loss. The advice to eat less and exercise more is both flawed and unfair. Those of us who follow that advice are sadly set to fail. I’ve seen too many folk who’ve over-exercised and under-eaten in desperation to lose weight and only succeeded in becoming deeply demoralised.

To cut a long story short (it’s all in the book) in 2008 my friend, Gloria Parfitt, introduced me to Dr. Wolf Funfack and his Metabolic Balance™ (MB) programme. I worked with it for several years in my practice. What I witnessed, working with so many individuals who were bravely prepared for yet another challenge, was that the changes ran deeper than weight loss. The weight loss was occurring as a side effect of improved overall health. 

‍Eventually I developed my own programme, and to make this information available to anyone who cared about their health, I wrote the book and self-published it in 2018. But lots of books never find an audience. And a huge part of the reason you came across HBD The Human Being Diet, was through another dear friend, Donna Ida. Donna is a truly life-enhancing person. She’s the most positive, brightest and funniest person I’ve ever met. And she designs beautiful clothes too. Clothes that make you feel and look great. 

In the spring of 2020 we were chatting about the pandemic and lockdowns, and Donna asked me ‘So what are you doing with your book, why don’t we talk about it on Instagram?’ And we started doing ‘lives’ together. And more and more people joined in and we talked and answered questions every week. Within a short time, an incredible community of like-minded and generous hearted people had blossomed and grown - the HBD gang was born!

I hope you enjoy the book, which was updated and revised in 2023, and look forward to hearing not only about the weight loss, but also about how vibrantly well and healthy and HAPPY you feel as a result of following the programme.

How it started

After almost twenty years in private practice, where I specialised in weight loss, skin and digestive disorders, I was oversubscribed. I was having to turn people away, and many of the people who wanted to come and see me couldn’t afford the hourly rates, or the fees for bespoke nutrition programmes. I felt a disconnect - it felt unfair.  

I realised that the answer was to democratise the process by writing a book. A book, in which the knowledge and experience I’d gained from working one to one with people, could be shared in an affordable way with all. A way for everyone one to be able to transform their lives by embracing a new way of eating, whether plant-based, vegetarian or omnivore.

Photo credit Miroslava Mistrikova-Ambala

How it started

After almost twenty years in private practice, where I specialised in weight loss, skin and digestive disorders, I was oversubscribed. I was having to turn people away, and many of the people who wanted to come and see me couldn’t afford the hourly rates, or the fees for bespoke nutrition programmes. I felt a disconnect - it felt unfair.  

I realised that the answer was to democratise the process by writing a book. A book, in which the knowledge and experience I’d gained from working one to one with people, could be shared in an affordable way with all. A way for everyone one to be able to transform their lives by embracing a new way of eating, whether plant-based, vegetarian or omnivore.

How it's going

There was, and still is, so much unhelpful advice and misinformation about health, and weight loss in particular. The proof of that is borne out by the number of diet books on the market, and the supplements that promise effortless weight loss. The advice to eat less and exercise more is both flawed and unfair. Those of us who follow that advice are sadly set to fail. I’ve seen too many folk who’ve over-exercised and under-eaten in desperation to lose weight and only succeeded in becoming deeply demoralised.

To cut a long story short (it’s all in the book) in 2008 my friend, Gloria Parfitt, introduced me to Dr. Wolf Funfack and his Metabolic Balance™ (MB) programme. I worked with it for several years in my practice. What I witnessed, working with so many individuals who were bravely prepared for yet another challenge, was that the changes ran deeper than weight loss. The weight loss was occurring as a side effect of improved overall health. 

‍Eventually I developed my own programme, and to make this information available to anyone who cared about their health, I wrote the book and self-published it in 2018. But lots of books never find an audience. And a huge part of the reason you came across HBD The Human Being Diet, was through another dear friend, Donna Ida. Donna is a truly life-enhancing person. She’s the most positive, brightest and funniest person I’ve ever met. And she designs beautiful clothes too. Clothes that make you feel and look great. 

In the spring of 2020 we were chatting about the pandemic and lockdowns, and Donna asked me ‘So what are you doing with your book, why don’t we talk about it on Instagram?’ And we started doing ‘lives’ together. And more and more people joined in and we talked and answered questions every week. Within a short time, an incredible community of like-minded and generous hearted people had blossomed and grown - the HBD gang was born!

I hope you enjoy the book, which was updated and revised in 2023, and look forward to hearing not only about the weight loss, but also about how vibrantly well and healthy and HAPPY you feel as a result of following the programme.

FAQs

Is HBD Suitable for everyone?

Yes. It's for every adult human being (18 and older) with the exception of athletes, pregnant or nursing mothers, or those undergoing IVF treatment. Anyone with a medical condition is advised to check with their doctor before embarking on the programme. It's never too late/you're never too old to start.

Can I take medication when following HBD?

Alway work with your primary healthcare provider when changing your diet and follow their advice re medication.

Do I need/have to take supplements while on the programme?

No, it's a personal choice.

What can I expect from HBD - what are the benefits?

Many people take up HBD as a healthy way to lose weight. But the benefit of eating 3 meals a day of real and nutrient dense food run much deeper than weight loss. Weight loss occurs on the programme as a side-effect of reduced inflammation, lower insulin levels and rebalanced blood sugar. Participants report improvements to skin and digestion, reduced joint pain, increased energy and quality of sleep, hormonal harmony and a happier, healthier relationship with food.

Can I have...?

No. Avoid eating or drinking anything that’s not included in the food lists in The Human Being Diet second edition (other than at treat meals) until Phase 4. Keep referring back to the food lists and download the kindle version on your phone for when you’re food shopping.

Can I see the Instagram lives if I'm not on Instagram

Yes. Subscribe to the YouTube channel where you can find a selection of lives and shorts https://www.youtube.com/@petronellathehumanbeingdiet .

Where can I find information on what's happening in the HBD world?

Right here! Events, announcements and future Instagram lives will be posted on the website.

Is HBD suitable for any diet?

Yes, it's suitable for vegans, vegetarians and omnivores. No, it's not suitable for fruitarians.

Can I take dietary supplements when following HBD?

Yes, capsules or tablets (not gummies) are fine, as are fish oil and/or omega 6 supplements, all/any of which can be taken in all phases. Avoid liquid or powdered supplements unless they are unflavoured and unsweetened.

How would you describe HBD in a nutshell?

It’s a take on the Mediterranean diet with less fruit and more vegetables. HBD encompasses 3 meals a day of minimally processed and wholesome food that can be found in your local grocery store - no meal replacements, bars or shakes. There are 10 rules and 4 phases of the programme over 3 months which leads into a new lifestyle for life.

Why is my cholesterol higher following HBD?

It is not unusual for cholesterol to rise temporarily as fat stores are broken down. Constipation may be another transient problem due to dietary changes. Read more in the book.

How do I prepare - what do I need to do before I start?

Read the book, The Human Being Diet second edition, and read it again! So that you understand the rules and the rationale. The better you understand it the better your results will be. Reread The Mindset and Your ‘Whys’ chapter again before you start, to help you prepare.

Is there a community I can connect with and ask questions?

Yes, do join us in The HBD Club for support, inspiration and motivation. Weekly live clinics and Q&A with Petronella and the HBD Angels and Ambassadors ensure that you get official answers to all your questions. We have a collection of delectable recipes, thanks to Lizzie Whiting, which is regularly added to. Also a huge library of resources, as well as Community Chat and places to share your wins and tips and tricks. Joining The HBD Club means that you are never alone - you will feel supported and understood, and set up for success throughout. Click here to find out more: https://petronellas-hbd-club.circle.so/c/ready-to-join/.

Photo credit Miroslava Mistrikova-Ambala

How it started

After almost twenty years in private practice, where I specialised in weight loss, skin and digestive disorders, I was oversubscribed. I was having to turn people away, and many of the people who wanted to come and see me couldn’t afford the hourly rates, or the fees for bespoke nutrition programmes. I felt a disconnect - it felt unfair.  

I realised that the answer was to democratise the process by writing a book. A book, in which the knowledge and experience I’d gained from working one to one with people, could be shared in an affordable way with all. A way for everyone one to be able to transform their lives by embracing a new way of eating, whether plant-based, vegetarian or omnivore.

How it's going

There was, and still is, so much unhelpful advice and misinformation about health, and weight loss in particular. The proof of that is borne out by the number of diet books on the market, and the supplements that promise effortless weight loss. The advice to eat less and exercise more is both flawed and unfair. Those of us who follow that advice are sadly set to fail. I’ve seen too many folk who’ve over-exercised and under-eaten in desperation to lose weight and only succeeded in becoming deeply demoralised.

To cut a long story short (it’s all in the book) in 2008 my friend, Gloria Parfitt, introduced me to Dr. Wolf Funfack and his Metabolic Balance™ (MB) programme. I worked with it for several years in my practice. What I witnessed, working with so many individuals who were bravely prepared for yet another challenge, was that the changes ran deeper than weight loss. The weight loss was occurring as a side effect of improved overall health. 

‍Eventually I developed my own programme, and to make this information available to anyone who cared about their health, I wrote the book and self-published it in 2018. But lots of books never find an audience. And a huge part of the reason you came across HBD The Human Being Diet, was through another dear friend, Donna Ida. Donna is a truly life-enhancing person. She’s the most positive, brightest and funniest person I’ve ever met. And she designs beautiful clothes too. Clothes that make you feel and look great. 

In the spring of 2020 we were chatting about the pandemic and lockdowns, and Donna asked me ‘So what are you doing with your book, why don’t we talk about it on Instagram?’ And we started doing ‘lives’ together. And more and more people joined in and we talked and answered questions every week. Within a short time, an incredible community of like-minded and generous hearted people had blossomed and grown - the HBD gang was born!

I hope you enjoy the book, which was updated and revised in 2023, and look forward to hearing not only about the weight loss, but also about how vibrantly well and healthy and HAPPY you feel as a result of following the programme.

The Human Being 
Diet

A blueprint for feasting and fasting your way to feeling, looking and being your best: a new way of feasting and fasting for energy, health and longevity

Buy now