The pineapple diet is a restrictive weight loss program that focuses on the alleged weight loss benefits of pineapple. Pineapple has been included in the growing list of "negative calorie" foods that, according to FatFreeKitchen.com,
"are foods that use more calories to digest than the calories food actually contains." Pineapple is also rich in vitamin C, thiamine, potassium and manganese, which has led to theories regarding its potential weight loss benefits. There are many variations of a pineapple-based diet, encompassing different time frames and supplements, including the Three Day Pineapple Diet.
History
The creation of the pineapple diet is generally credited to Joann Metzger who now markets weight loss supplements made from pineapples. Metzger claims to have lost 43 lbs. in six weeks using the diet and the company, Metzger Products provides similar testimonials. Variations of the diet have since cropped up, but there is much controversy regarding the efficacy and safety of a diet based solely on pineapple.
Features
The Three Day Pineapple Diet, sometimes referred to as the Pineapple and Tuna Diet, is the most common and popular form of the pineapple diet. There is no clearly defined source of this weight loss method, and it has been passed around various Internet weight loss websites. This variation is usually considered a fad diet. The general approach to the Three Day Pineapple Diet uses canned tuna to supplement protein. The first day of the diet consists of one fresh pineapple, eaten throughout the day, and large amounts of water. On the second day, in addition to the pineapple and water, eat two cans of tuna fish divided between meals. The third day repeats the plan of the first day.
Benefits
The main attraction of the Three Day Pineapple Diet is the lack of a structured, paid program and the easy availability of pineapple and canned tuna in most areas. In addition, pineapple is highly nutritious. It contains high concentrations of vitamin C, a powerful antioxidant. The manganese found in pineapple is vital in enzyme reactions, as well as kidney and thyroid function. Pineapple also provides potassium, an electrolyte that controls heart rhythm, muscle contraction and nerve transmission.
Considerations
There is no science to support the claims of pineapple as a weight loss supplement and the principle of "negative calorie foods" has been called into question. The theory is based on the thought that pineapple and other foods contain cellulose, a plant fiber that is indigestible by the human body. While pineapple does contain cellulose, the fruit also contains relatively large amounts of calories from other sources. A cup of diced pineapple provides 74 calories, derived from 14.4 g of sugar and only 2.2 g of fiber. The body typically uses only 10 to 15 percent of daily calorie intake to fuel digestion, and there is doubt as to whether a small amount of fiber would cause that number to increase high enough to significantly reduce the calories gained from the sugar in pineapple.
Warning
Despite only lasting three days, this diet variation may be difficult to follow, and any weight lost may be regained by returning to your normal diet. The high acidity of pineapple may cause sores to breakout in the mouth and on the tongue. Tuna contains high concentrations of mercury that can lead to migraine headaches.
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