One of the original fad diets, the Grapefruit Diet calls for grapefruit to be eaten with all meals as part of an overall weight loss plan. Water also plays an important role in the Grapefruit Diet, with followers expected to drink at least eight 8-oz. glasses each day. And unlike most weight loss programs, the Grapefruit Diet actually discourages exercising.
Identification
The Grapefruit Diet dates back to the 1930s, when it was popularly known as the Hollywood Diet. Individuals on the Grapefruit Diet must eat half a grapefruit before each meal for 12 days, with the thought being that grapefruit contains a special "fat-fighting enzyme." The diet also restricts the individual's calories to a mere 800 per day. If dieters intend to stay on the diet for an extended time period, it's recommended they take at least a 2-day break between the 12-day regiments.
Features
According to BodyBuilding.com, the Grapefruit Diet's list of allowed foods includes bell peppers, broccoli, corn, fruit, spinach, pasta, pretzels, sweet pickles, radishes, and red onions. Restricted foods include bread, carrots, cabbage, coleslaw, green beans, green onions, hot dogs, mayonnaise, peas, potatoes, salad dressing, and tomatoes.
Function
Dieters will lose weight following the Grapefruit Diet. However, weight loss won't be because of some mysterious "fat-fighting enzyme." According to Dr. Kelly Brownell, the director and co-founder of the Yale Rudd Center for Food Policy and Obesity, weight loss comes due to the extreme calorie restrictions. Drinking so much water will also aid in the weight loss, as the increased water intake will help flush the system and contribute to feeling full.
Benefits
Aside from potential weight loss, the Grapefruit Diet also provides individuals with some additional health benefits. Grapefruit is high in Vitamin C, beta-carotenes, antioxidants, and fiber. Beta-carotenes, in particular, help lower cholesterol and protect against heart disease. And the diet's water recommendations will promote proper hydration, improve skin health, and help flush the body of harmful toxins.
Considerations
Dieters may find the Grapefruit Diet's extreme calorie restrictions too difficult to follow, compromising the diet's effectiveness. The diet's list of allowable foods contains little protein, making it problematic trying to build muscle while following the program. In fact, the Grapefruit Diet discourages exercise during the 12-day regiment due to the limited calorie intake. Attempting a rigorous workout while consuming just 800 calories a day could lead to dizziness and fatigue.
Member Comments