Contrary to popular belief, being on the Grapefruit Diet does not only involve eating grapefruits for 12 days. Now that we got that out of the way, let’s talk more about what this diet is about.
Those who follow this diet believe that a naturally occurring enzyme in the fruit assists in fat burning and hastens metabolism. Being a fruit it is fat free, low in sodium, rich in vitamin C, beta carotene, antioxidants and fiber. Here is a list of foods you may and may not have on this diet:
The Grapefruit diet may include:
Red onions, bell peppers, radishes, broccoli, cucumbers, carrots, green onions, leaf spinach, cabbage, tomatoes, green beans, lettuce, chili (no beans), mayonnaise, any cheese, hot dogs, coleslaws, regular salad dressing, green vegetables, 1 tsp dried nuts and butter pickles.
However, it does not include:
White onions, potatoes, celery, peas, cereal, corn, starchy vegetables, potato chips, peanut butter, pasta, corn chips, jelly or jam, sweet pickles, pretzels, fruit and low-fat/fat free/diet salad dressings.
A study sponsored by the Florida Department of Citrus found that adding half a grapefruit or 4 ounces of unsweetened grapefruit juice with meals produced an average loss of 3 pounds in 12 weeks. Some participants in the study also slightly enhanced their physical activity which may also explain the weight loss. The ½ serving of grapefruit or unsweetened grapefruit juice is part of every meal.
You are advised not to skip bacon or butter, since dieters on the grapefruit diet believe that the combination of foods help in the fat burning process. It is also recommended that you eat until you cannot eat any more, literally. Snacking between meals is also prohibited. At least 64 ounces of water is recommended every day. Exercise is not permitted in some plans. This last statement makes the basis of this diet a bit hazy, since skipping physical activity and relying solely on the enzymes found in grapefruit makes one skeptical dieter. No studies to date have documented or even named this particular enzyme.
Some grapefruit diet antagonists believe that a sudden change in diet may prohibit a long term commitment to this diet plan. Also, a diet low in protein and fiber may cause dizziness or low energy levels throughout the day. The limited amount of foods allowed also lack in important vitamins and nutrients like iron and calcium. Researchers believe that although there is no harm in including grapefruit in the diet, the grapefruit diet eliminates a host of other foods that may compromise one’s health. The 800 calories allowed per day may not be enough for people with different ages, weights and conditions. It also does not always recommend exercise which in itself is a questionable suggestion.
The grapefruit diet may help you lose weight in 7 days, but the question is what happens after?
Troy Maclean is a writer and researcher on the subject of Natural Weight Loss including the revolutionary Wellness Belt [http://theweightlossbelt.com/]. There is no reason you should sit there and be embarrassed about your weight any longer. Click this link if you are ready to learn more about how Strip That Fat can effectively get rid of your excess weight today, visit Strip That Fat [http://theweightlossbelt.com/what-is-strip-that-fat-2/] and start your road to a better you.
