Don't be left wondering!
Frequently Asked Questions
Side EffectsWhy do I get headaches when using Sole Source?
Occasionally some people may experience a carbohydrate withdrawal syndrome during the first three days, which causes headaches. This is a temporary effect and should be tolerated. Taking a simple headache remedy for a day or two, such as acetaminophen (paracetamol), should ease the discomfort. Low water intake could also cause mild dehydration and consequently headaches. Make sure you are drinking the recommended amount of water.
I experienced diarrhoea right when I started the Cambridge program. Why?
This is a minor issue and is considered a possible short-lived side effect.
Some people's bodies are not accustomed to the mineral content in Cambridge products. A good remedy is to drink an extra glass of water with each Cambridge meal, which will dilute the effect of the minerals on the body.
The solution is to take Cambridge Weight Plan meals as six mini-meals (six half-portions per day) to reduce the initial mineral intake. Another possible cause of ongoing diarrhoea is lactose intolerance. Some people cannot digest the lactose in dairy products, which is what causes the diarrhoea. If this is the case, we have a range of lactose-free products that you can use instead.
Is it normal to feel euphoric while on Sole Source?
This is completely normal and you should not be concerned. In fact, why not enjoy it!
Why am I having trouble sleeping enough?
It is not uncommon for a person to need less rest time when following the methodology. There are cases of people who thought they needed 9 or 10 hours of sleep per night, only to find that as they achieved their goals the amount of sleep they needed reduced considerably. Being awake an extra hour or two each day could be a pleasant side effect of Cambridge Weight Plan.
Sometimes I feel very thirsty. Is this normal?
It is normal to experience thirst when on a diet. The solution is simple: drink more fluids. We recommend that all people using Sole Source programs drink 2.25 litres of water daily. This 2.25 litres is the sum of 1.2 litres — the water intake recommended by the Food Standards Agency — plus the water contained in the food not consumed (normally 1 litre but could be 2). There are probably few benefits to consuming double the recommended amount of water.
I have noticed I have bad breath. What causes this?
The mild ketosis caused by using Cambridge Weight Plan as a sole source of nutrition can slightly affect your breath. Simply brush your teeth more frequently and use mouthwash, sugar-free gum or mint lozenges.
Is it normal to become constipated when starting the Cambridge Plan?
Cambridge Weight Plan contains sufficient fibre for most people. When you start any diet, including Cambridge Weight Plan, you consume less bulk, so there is much less bulk to eliminate. As a result, bowel movements are far less frequent. This is normal and should not be a concern in the early stages.
Psyllium, also known as Ispaghula, has been found to be particularly effective in preventing constipation. However, if constipation persists for more than three days, or if you experience physical discomfort, you may want to speak with your doctor about obtaining a suitable laxative.
Is it normal to feel nauseous when starting the Cambridge program?
Some people have more sensitive stomachs than others and may occasionally develop nausea when first consuming Cambridge Weight Plan products. In most cases a full glass of water after each Cambridge meal will eliminate the discomfort.
Another solution is to divide the Cambridge Weight Plan meals into six mini-meals per day, drinking a glass of water after each one to dilute the effect of the minerals.
Why do I feel cold when using the Sole Source program of Cambridge Weight Plan?
This is an almost certain side effect due to the decrease in thermogenic response caused by the reduction in food intake. A large meal generates a large amount of heat in the body, while small meals generate less heat. There is a wide variation in thermogenic response among individuals. You will generally feel coldness in your hands and feet — this is a normal body response as it tries to conserve energy and heat. For those affected, the feeling of cold is due to the minimal calorie intake of the Sole Source program. Other factors that can influence body heat production include a slight reduction in metabolic rate and, of course, the loss of insulating body fat! Those who are sensitive to cold need to move more and dress warmly to retain heat — several thin layers are better than one thick one.
Does the Sole Source program affect the menstrual cycle?
Hormonal levels change when there are changes in weight — especially in women. For most, the menstrual cycle is not affected, but in some women there may be a significant change in bleeding. Others may find that their period stops for a period of time. Fertility could also be affected and unexpected pregnancies may occur. Even a woman who has tried to conceive without success should be aware that her fertility may increase during weight loss.
The metabolism of contraceptive pills may also be affected during effective weight loss, so it is recommended to consider alternative contraceptive methods.
I have been using Cambridge Weight Plan for two weeks and I am getting leg cramps. Is this due to the methodology?
Cramps are common during a very low-calorie diet, especially in the early stages when there is significant water loss. The rapid water turnover is likely the cause. Muscle spasms occur when sodium levels change as water moves between cells. If the cramp persists or if you have had cramps previously, please see your doctor.
Can hair loss develop with the Cambridge Weight Plan methodology?
Hair loss, along with general thinning of the hair, is usually associated with emotional stress, severe illness, malnutrition, hypothyroidism, other hormonal changes, and in some people it is linked to effective weight loss over a continuous period of time regardless of the method used. Hair usually grows back thicker and shinier than before. If hair loss is uneven or if there are skin problems elsewhere on the body, please speak with your doctor.
I have a rash. Am I allergic to Cambridge Weight Plan?
Skin rashes can develop from various causes including medications, pollution, temperature, sunlight, fabrics, detergents, infections and also food.
Some people are allergic to certain ingredients used in some Cambridge products. Check the ingredient list and identify which products may contain allergenic substances so you can avoid them.
Food allergies should be properly investigated and allergen-free diets should be based on scientific evidence.