Man vows to eat nothing but potatoes for one year to try to overcome 'food addiction'

A self-confessed 'food addict' has taken the extreme step of going cold turkey and cutting all food from his diet - save for the humble potato.

Australian dad Andrew Taylor said food had been controlling his life, so he decided to make what he ate as bland as possible to try to overcome his addiction.

Posting his first video blog explaining his decision to go potato-only, he said:

For the past 54 days, all he has eaten is potato and the odd bit of salt, garlic or sauce as seasoning - no meat, no dairy, no fats and no oil.

He is also taking vitamin B12 supplements and has regular check-ups with his doctor.

Andrew began chronicling his year-long journey through a Facebook page, Spud Fit, complete with regular video updates.

He has since gained thousands of fans - many of whom have told him they have taken inspiration from him and started a similar potato-based diet.

While tackling his 'addiction' was his primary goal, rather than weight loss, he told Agence France-Presse that since he started he had shed 37lbs (17kg) - down from his heaviest-ever weigh-in as he began his challenge on January 1, topping the scales at 23st 12lb.

"The biggest surprise of all is that I'm enjoying it," he said.

"I'm sleeping better and have better mental clarity and focus.

"People assume that I am going to be sick and die.... [but] If I feel sick, I'll just eat something else."