Information On The Fruit And Veggie Only Diet

Most fruits and vegetables are low in calories, have a low glycemic index and are full of fiber that can serve as an appetite suppressant. For this reason, the fruit and veggie only diet is a way in which to shed a few pounds quickly. In addition, incorporating more fruit and vegetables into your diet can have positive secondary health benefits.

Serving Sizes

A fruit and vegetable diet is one that incorporates a minimum of two to three fruit servings and four or five of vegetables daily. In order to achieve maximum weight-loss success you should aim for nine or more servings of fruits and vegetables.

Fresh, Frozen or Canned

When it comes to getting the most nutrition possible fresh is best, as shipping and storage times as well as temperature changes can reduce fruit and vegetable nutrients. Fruit that is flash-frozen after harvesting ensures that a product's nutrients remain intact. When it comes to weight loss, fruits have the least amount of calories when consumed in their natural form. Fruits and vegetables that come canned in syrups or oils come with extra calories. When it comes to how you eat a fruit or vegetable, raw is always best. If this is not palatable however, baked or steamed are your best options for keeping foods low calorie.

Fruit Types

Some fruits are better than others when it comes to weight loss. You should eat berries, green apples, citrus fruits and melons regularly, along with a variety of other fruits. Keep grapes, bananas, dried fruit and coconut to a minimum, as these contain the most sugar.

Vegetable Types

On the whole, vegetables are lower in calories than fruits. You can consume plenty of green beans, broccoli, carrots, mushrooms, celery, lettuce, tomato and zucchini, but you should limit how much avocado you eat because it is high in fat.

Overall Health Benefits

Research indicates that a fruit and vegetable diet has additional health benefits in addition to weight loss. Packed with nutrition and rich in antioxidants, this diet can help reduce your body's chance for developing cardiovascular disease, type 2 diabetes and provide some protection from certain cancers.