Dukan Diet Cruise Phase
Finishing the Attack Phase feels like a win. The scale drops fast, motivation is high, and you finally believe the Dukan Diet works.
But for most people in the United States, the Cruise Phase is where the real journey begins.
This phase is not about speed.
It’s about consistency, fat loss, and sustainability.
If you understand Phase 2 correctly, the Dukan Diet becomes realistic.
If you don’t, weight loss stalls — and many people quit here.
This guide explains the Cruise Phase in a simple, American-friendly way, without confusing diet jargon.
What Is the Dukan Diet Cruise Phase?
The Cruise Phase, also called Phase 2 of the Dukan Diet, is designed to help you continue losing weight until you reach your goal weight.
Unlike the Attack Phase, which allows only pure protein, the Cruise Phase introduces non-starchy vegetables while keeping protein as the main focus.
This balance:
Reduces fatigue
Improves digestion
Makes the diet mentally easier
Supports steady fat loss
For U.S. readers, this is the phase that fits best with real life — work schedules, grocery shopping, and family meals.
How the Cruise Phase Works (No Confusion)
The Cruise Phase follows a rotation system:
✔ PP Days (Protein Only)
You eat only lean protein foods.
✔ PV Days (Protein + Vegetables)
Most recommended rotation:
1 PP day → 1 PV day → repeat
This pattern keeps metabolism active and prevents plateaus.
Beginners in the U.S. should avoid complex rotations like 3:3 or 5:5.
The 1:1 method is the safest and most effective.
Core Rules of the Cruise Phase
These rules are non-negotiable:
Protein is unlimited
Vegetables are allowed only on PV days
Oils, butter, and dressings are not allowed
Fruits, grains, and cheese are still restricted
Oat bran intake increases
Daily walking is required
Breaking these rules — even slightly — is the main reason people say:
“The Dukan Diet stopped working.”
Cruise Phase Food List (Phase 2 Approved)
Allowed Protein Foods (Every Day)
Skinless chicken breast
Turkey breast
Lean beef (sirloin, round cuts)
Pork tenderloin (fat trimmed)
Fish (cod, tilapia, salmon in moderation)
Shrimp, crab, scallops
Eggs and egg whites
Nonfat Greek yogurt (plain)
Nonfat cottage cheese
Tofu, tempeh, seitan
Protein should always be the largest part of your meal.
Allowed Vegetables (PV Days Only)
Only non-starchy, low-carb vegetables are permitted:
Spinach
Broccoli
Cauliflower
Zucchini
Mushrooms
Bell peppers
Tomatoes
Cabbage
Asparagus
Cucumbers
Eggplant
Onions (limited)
Not allowed:
Potatoes, corn, peas, beans, lentils, sweet potatoes.
Oat Bran (Mandatory Food)
During the Cruise Phase:
2 tablespoons of oat bran per day
Oat bran helps:
Prevent constipation
Improve gut health
Control hunger
Balance cholesterol levels
Skipping oat bran often leads to digestive discomfort.
How Long Does the Cruise Phase Last?
There is no fixed duration.
You stay in the Cruise Phase until you reach your true weight.
For most U.S. adults:
Expect 1–2 pounds of weight loss per week
Slower than Attack Phase, but more sustainable
This phase focuses on fat loss, not just water weight.
What Weight Loss Looks Like in Phase 2
Week | Typical Progress |
Week 1 | 1–2 lbs |
Week 2 | 1–1.5 lbs |
Week 3 | 1 lb |
Week 4 | Inches lost, body tightening |
If the scale slows but clothes fit better — the diet is working.
Why Many Americans Struggle in the Cruise Phase
Most people fail here because:
They expect rapid daily scale drops
They add “healthy” oils or sauces
They skip PP days
They get impatient
The Cruise Phase rewards discipline and routine, not shortcuts.
Practical Tips to Stay Consistent and Avoid Stalls
Eating the Cruise Phase the American Way
Most U.S. readers don’t have time for complicated cooking.
So here’s a simple plate rule:
½ plate: lean protein
¼ plate: non-starchy vegetables (PV days only)
¼ plate: empty (no carbs, no fats)
Cooking methods:
Grilling
Baking
Boiling
Air frying (no oil)
Avoid:
Oils, butter, salad dressings, marinades.
Cruise Phase Grocery List (U.S. Stores)
Proteins
Chicken breast family packs
Lean ground turkey (93% or higher)
Skinless rotisserie chicken
Salmon fillets
Frozen shrimp
Egg whites (carton)
Nonfat Greek yogurt
Vegetables
Broccoli florets
Spinach (fresh or frozen)
Zucchini
Mushrooms
Bell peppers
Cauliflower rice
Cucumbers
Pantry Items
Oat bran
Cooking spray (0 calories)
Salt, pepper
Garlic powder, paprika
Lemon juice
Vinegar (no sugar)
3-Day Cruise Phase Meal Plan (U.S. Lifestyle)
Day 1 — PV Day
Breakfast: Egg white omelet with spinach
Lunch: Grilled chicken + broccoli
Dinner: Baked salmon + zucchini
Snack: Nonfat Greek yogurt + oat bran
Day 2 — PP Day
Breakfast: Scrambled eggs + turkey slices
Lunch: Tuna (water-packed)
Dinner: Lean steak + shrimp
Snack: Nonfat cottage cheese
Day 3 — PV Day
Breakfast: Greek yogurt + oat bran
Lunch: Turkey burger patty + cauliflower rice
Dinner: Grilled fish + mixed vegetables
Weight Loss Plateaus (Very Common in Phase 2)
Many Americans notice:
No scale change for 5–7 days
This is normal.
Causes:
Water retention from vegetables
Muscle preservation
Hormonal adjustment
What Helps:
Remove dairy for 2–3 days
Increase walking to 30–40 minutes
Stick strictly to PP/PV rotation
Drink more water
Do not return to the Attack Phase.
Exercise Rules (Realistic for U.S. Readers)
Required:
20–30 minutes walking daily
Optional:
Light resistance training (2× weekly)
Stretching or yoga
No gym is necessary.
Safety Note (U.S. Medical Perspective)
High-protein diets are generally safe short-term for healthy adults.
However:
Stay hydrated
Monitor digestion
Consult a doctor if you have kidney issues
This aligns with guidance commonly referenced by Mayo Clinic and Harvard Health.
Frequently Asked Questions
How long should I stay in the Cruise Phase?
Until you reach your goal weight.
Can I eat out during Phase 2?
Yes — grilled meat and vegetables, no sauces.
Why is weight loss slower now?
You’re losing fat, not water weight.
Is this phase sustainable?
Yes — it’s the most realistic part of the Dukan Diet.