How to Start a Fruit Diet

How to Start a Fruit Diet
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Fruit diets can serve a multitude of purposes. They can be used to lose weight or to give your body a break from a diet of processed fatty foods. Fruit diets can also help you get a high amount of nutrients in a short period of time, a good option if you are recuperating from an illness and need as much nutrition as you can get. If you have a medical condition, however, you should consult with your doctor before starting a fruit diet.

Step 1

Stock up on fruits. Make sure you choose a variety of fruits of different colors and acidity. Acidic fruits such as oranges and grapefruits can be hard on your body at the beginning of the diet and may cause diarrhea if consumed in excess, according to the Freedom From You website. Fruits that will stay fresh for longer, such as apples, can be bought in larger quantities. You might need to replenish your stock of bananas more frequently.

Step 2

Choose fresh fruits whenever possible, but don't discard other options. Frozen berries are a great option if you want to make shakes or smoothies (use water and ice instead of milk). Canned fruits should be kept at a minimum, and always choose the ones that are packed in unsweetened syrup. Dried fruits can be added and would make convenient snacks on the go. Certain specific fruit diets prohibit anything except fresh fruits, but if you're creating your own, you're free to mix and match.

Step 3

Buy organic fruit if possible. It will provide you with the most nutrients and will not contain any added chemicals or pesticides. According to Green Daily, some fruits and vegetables are part of the "dirty dozen," which are highly contaminated and should be consumed organic whenever possible. The fruits in the list include apples, cherries, pears, grapes, raspberries, nectarines, peaches, strawberries and bell peppers (which are a fruit despite their appearance).

Step 4

Eat fruits that are denser and higher in calories early in the day. This will give you a boost of energy to help you get through the busiest hours of the day. Bananas and mangoes are good choices. Avocados are also fruits despite their look and taste, and they can be a great addition to your morning meal as well.

Step 5

Eat often, as many times as you feel hungry. Because fruits are low in calories, you might end up not feeling as full as you would with other meals. Eating frequently also helps with digestion and keeps your blood sugar stable, thus eliminating cravings.

Step 6

Drink lots of water--eight glasses or more--preferably distilled or mineral water. Avoid any other drinks while you're on a fruit diet, including coffee, sodas, juices or teas. If you want some variety, you can have a glass of freshly made vegetable juice.

References

Article reviewed by Eric Althoff Last updated on: Aug 24, 2010

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