Obesity is a major problem in the United States; one that leads to early deaths all too frequently. The Weight Control Information Network states that as of 2008, two-thirds of American adults were either overweight or obese. This is not only a problem of vanity, as it can also increase a person’s risk of heart attack, stroke, diabetes and high cholesterol. There are numerous fad diets that people try, but the Volumetrics eating plan is a type of diet based on what types of foods satisfy a person’s hunger.
Definition
The Volumetrics eating plan is a diet that was created by Dr. Barbara Rolls, a weight loss specialist. The official website of the Volumetrics eating plan states that the diet is high in fiber and, therefore, designed to help keep you full for a longer period of time. Eating foods that promote a feeling of fullness will help you to consume fewer calories throughout the day and therefore, lose weight, according to the official Volumetrics website.
Recommended Foods
Some of the most highly encouraged foods on the Volumetrics eating plan include salads, broth-based soups and fruits. These foods all contain a high water content, which can cause you to feel full without eating too many calories. Fiber-rich foods like popcorn, whole grains and vegetables are also recommended on the Volumetrics eating plan.
Foods Discouraged
Good Housekeeping magazine compared the Volumetrics eating plan to several other diets that are popular today. While diets, such as they Atkins diet, restrict entire food groups, Good Housekeeping states that the Volumetrics eating plan only discourages of foods which are dense in calories like nuts, cheese, chocolate, crackers and processed snack foods. You can still eat foods like meat and cheese on the Volumetrics eating plan, but the lower fat varieties are more encouraged.
Effectiveness
According to the Mayo Clinic, increasing your intake of water and fiber in your diet can be effective in helping to promote weight loss. When people feel full, they are usually inclined to eat less, and since weight loss is a matter of eating fewer calories than you burn, it can work for you. There are no scientific studies that test the specifics of the Volumetrics eating plan for weight loss, however.
Pitfalls
There are a few challenges and potential pitfalls of the Volumetrics eating plan of which you should be aware. However, it may be challenging to dine out or eat at a friend’s house while on the Volumetrics diet, since you may not know what ingredients certain recipes contain. Good Housekeeping states that in order to maintain the Volumetrics eating plan, you have to be prepared to cook a lot of meals from scratch, which can take quite some time. The diet may be hard to maintain for those who hate to cook.
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