Rice Diet Rules

Rice Diet Rules
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The Rice Diet program is a diet plan that has been used since 1939 to promote weight loss and improvements in overall health, according to the program's official website. The website explains that the Rice Diet program is intended to inspire lifestyle changes, rather than just induce rapid weight loss that may be regained later. The Rice Diet program is said to be successful because of its large number of food restrictions, as only certain foods are acceptable for consumption. In the end, however, it is being in a caloric deficit that triggers weight loss. Before beginning any diet, consult your doctor.

Cut Sodium Intake

According to the official website for the Rice Diet program, a drastic reduction in sodium is necessary throughout the Rice Diet. This is helpful in weight loss because many unhealthy, high calorie, processed foods are high in sodium. In addition, sodium causes your body to hold water, which results in an increase in your weight.

Keep Fat Intake at 5g or Below

According to the weight-loss information website Every Diet, another important requirement of the Rice Diet is consuming very low levels of fat. Every Diet notes that the Rice Diet aims for total daily fat intake to be 5g or less. According to the United States Department of Agriculture and the Department of Health and Human Services, fat intake should account for between 20 and 35 percent of your total daily calories. The organizations explain that fat is vital for health because it offers energy, essential fatty acids, and helps to carry fat-soluble vitamins and nutrients.

Limit Protein Intake

According to the official website of the Rice Diet Program, protein does not play an important role in the Rice Diet. During the initial phase of the Rice Diet, which is considered a detox, the program recommends centering your diet on whole grains and vegetables. During the second phase of the Rice Diet, the program's official website notes that you can eat fish, a low-fat source of protein, but you can consume it just once per week. Like fat, protein is also an essential nutrient--it provides amino acids, which are used to build muscle and other tissues in your body.

Exercise As Much As Possible

According to the weight-loss information website Diets In Review.com, exercise is a vital component of the Rice Diet program. Exercise burns calories, which can help you achieve the caloric deficit required for weight loss. The Rice Diet program recommends a variety of exercise options, such as walking, swimming, yoga and tai chi.

References

Article reviewed by Victoria Dugger Last updated on: Sep 28, 2010

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