Grapefruit Diet
Our Reviewer Says
“The possible weight loss potential of grapefruit aside, this diet works only because it restricts calories to severely low levels.”
At a Glance
By Karen Asp
Whether or not you've tried it, you've undoubtedly heard about the Grapefruit Diet, which dates back to the 1930s. Though there are several versions of this diet around, one constant remains: You must eat half a grapefruit (or drink grapefruit juice) before every meal. The rationale is that grapefruit contains special enzymes that help you burn fat and drop weight. You're also required to restrict your daily caloric intake to 800 calories and, by some accounts, eliminate certain foods during the diet. Ironically, although this diet has no grounding in scientific research and is not recommended, new research has emerged, proving that the fat-burning capabilities of grapefruit may not be just a crazy diet myth after all.
Checklist
- Cost: Moderate. Depends on the price of grapefruit or juice at the time. In a week’s time, you’ll need 10 1/2 grapefruits or 168 ounces of grapefruit juice.
- Meals Provided: No.
- Diet Duration: Although there are variations of the diet, most of the plans last 12 to 18 days.
- Fitness Requirements: None. In fact, one version suggests no exercise because you won’t be eating enough calories to support physical activity.
- Time Commitment: Little.
- Eating Out: Difficult. Because grapefruit isn’t on the menu at every restaurant, this would be challenging.
- Alcohol: No.
- Vegetarian-Friendly: Yes.
- Strict/Flexible Eating Plan: Strict.
More Info
Online:
Grapefruit Diet Plan
Books:
The Grapefruit Solution
