The Deacon Diet

Most dieters struggle against their chains. Not Commander Bernard W. Deacon, who for some 25 years has happily adhered to a six-day regimen that would give the eggs Benedict set apoplexy but not heartburn. (On the seventh day he fasts.) When Deacon dines out, he attempts to stick to rare roast beef, fish and salads. The diet:

ON RISING: A glass of hot water in which is dissolved a tablespoon each of honey, Karo syrup and vinegar, plus the juice of one lemon.

BREAKFAST: First, what Deacon calls "a kind of drinkable slush," blending three tablespoons of brewers' yeast, two tablespoons of AR factor RHB* and a tablespoon each of soy flour, sesame meal, sunflower meal, wheat-and-rice bran, rice polish, brown rice, maple syrup, millet and powdered protein. This is followed by one or more whole papayas, a tablespoon of wheat-germ oil and a bowl of Seven Grain whole cereal with raisins and dates added. (Note: no milk, cream, sugar or butter.)

LUNCH: None.

DINNER: A variety of dishes devised by Mrs. Deacon, including such ingredients as thinly sliced beef, Hawaiian onions, watercress, calves' liver, chicken livers, bacon and any kind of fish (served raw on occasion), all but the last stir-fried, Chinese style. Plus a salad of lettuce, chives, parsley, mint, avocado and onion slices (all home-grown except the onions), mixed with two tablespoons of safflower oil and a little lemon juice or a dollop of Mrs. Deacon's homemade polyunsaturated mayonnaise. For dessert Deacon has another papaya and/or seasonal fruits.

SNACKS & DRINKS: Between meals, only fruits and nuts, including—without fail—an apple at bedtime. Skimmed milk occasionally, no coffee or tea, and alcohol limited to a maximum of two drinks of beer, liquor or wine. Oh, yes—after workouts, Gookinaid.

*A compound contrived by Russ Hodge, former decathlon record holder, containing time-released minerals, vitamins and amino acids from natural sources and enzymes.