The Astro Diet relies on Zodiac signs. This diet divides people into two groups, who are known as the Salties and the Sweeties. The Salties group includes people who were born under the following signs: Aries, Gemini, Leo, Libra, Sagittarius, and Aquarius. The Sweeties group includes Taurus, Cancer, Virgo, Scorpio, Capricorn, and Pisces. Food guidelines differ for each group; there is a food horoscope for each sign of the Zodiac.

The salties are advised to eat more fruits, legumes, starchy foods, and cereals. They should avoid potato chips, peanuts and cold cuts. Suggested foods include soy sauce, smoked salmon, and plain yogurt. The sweeties may lose weight by eating foods whose sugar digests slowly. They shouldn't eat foods rich in glucides between meals. Carbonated drinks, fruit juice, ice cream, dry cookies, and jams are no-nos. On the plus side are bread, tomatoes, and wine. As a Sagittarius I am counseled to reduce my consummation of animal protein, grease, heavy starches, and alcohol. On the other hand, I should eat more vegetables, apples, and sushi and drink more green tea. I am counseled not to eat too much fat at dinner. You definitely won't find me following this diet.

A major advantage of this diet is that it's not strict. One might conceivably follow it for life. A disadvantage for many people is the diet's reliance on astrology. Furthermore, the Astro Diet does not include any information on calorie management or suggestions for the weight loss rhythm. It is complicated for a family whose members were born under different astrological signs.

Here are two sample menus: Menu 1 (Cancer) Breakfast: A bowl of oatmeal and a glass of soy milk. Lunch: Lemon chicken, ratatouille, and an apple. Supper: Vegetarian lasagna and two scoops of sherbet.

Menu 2 (Virgo) Breakfast: Two slices of whole grain bread with light jam and a pear. Lunch: Grated carrots, a grilled steak, and green beans. Supper: Spaghetti with meat sauce and a baked yellow apple.

Some of the information in this article comes from a fascinating new book, La Bible des Regimes, that was written by Jenny de Jonquieres and published by Amerik Media. Her book describes more than 80 diets and weight reduction programs. Each diet is presented with 5 menu plans, a detailed discussion of its advantages and disadvantages, and a whole lot more. La Bible des Regimes is presently available only in French. For more information consult the publisher's website.