Grapefruit

The grapefruit diet has been around since the 1930s. It has stood the test of time, with elements of the diet being incorporated into new diets around the world. The grapefruit diet is based on a “weight-loss” ingredient found in grapefruit, that when eaten along with protein supposedly triggers fat burning and weight-loss. The diet is meant to promote weight-loss quickly and easily. The weight that is lost while on the grapefruit diet is primarily water weight, and returns as soon as the person resumes normal eating habits.

Types of Grapefruit Diets

There are a few different varieties of the grapefruit diet, with most promising at least 10 pounds of weight coming off within 12 days. People who want to do more than the original 12 days should eat normally for two days and then start the diet again. Exercise is recommended in some versions and non-existent in others. This diet does not discuss long term weight-loss, but is focused on short term. Most versions of the grapefruit diet allow a small variety of food at breakfast, lunch, dinner and bedtime. Dieters are encouraged to consume lots of water and black coffee. An example of a day on the grapefruit diet looks similar to this. For breakfast – 2 eggs, 2 pieces of bacon, black coffee and half a grapefruit. Lunch would consist of salad, meat and half a grapefruit and 8 ounces of grapefruit juice. Dinner would include red or green vegetables, beans, salad, unlimited meat or fish and a half of a grapefruit. Grapefruit diets allow all the butter and salad dressings you want. You can also prepare food in any method including fried. You must drink at least 64 ounces of water daily and cannot have any food or beverages not on the diet.

Health Factors of Grapefruit Diets

The grapefruit diet is said to be effective because it is a low-carbohydrate, moderate protein and very low calorie. On average on the grapefruit diet people consume 800-1000 calories. Most people will lose this weight with or without the grapefruit because their caloric intake is drastically reduced. There have been no scientific explanations as to how the mysterious enzyme in grapefruit works or that it actually has the power to burn fat. Some believe that the healthy meals may have reduced insulin levels. Grapefruit is a very nutritious and low calorie fruit averaging 66-84 calories per serving. It is also loaded with fiber and vitamin C. It may help dieters to feel full faster, reducing the amount of calories eaten. Many people find fault with the grapefruit diet because it leads to monotony and taste fatigue. It also does not have a sustainable amount of calories for dieters to eat long term. It can result in dieters becoming underweight and malnourished. Most people who embark on the grapefruit diet will throw in the towel quickly or will regain all of the calories that were initially lost.

Costs Associated with Grapefruit Diets

The grapefruit diet is not very expensive because dieters will be purchasing less food because they will be eating significantly less. Grapefruit is rather inexpensive, and non-sweetened grapefruit juice is allowed as a substitute if you cannot locate fresh grapefruit. Many people will feel hungry, fatigued and in a general bad mood with such a significant reduction in calories making this diet unsustainable. Grapefruit itself can be part of a healthy diet, but should not be the primary focus. Pink grapefruit is best for added nutrition because it is rich in beta-carotene.