The Grapefruit Diet, also known as the Hollywood Diet, has been around since the 1930s and generally involves eating one grapefruit with every meal. The fad diet claims to promote “fast weight loss” because grapefruit contains “fat-burning enzymes.”
The grapefruit diet was one of the first fad diets introduced to the public, and has become commonly known as the “Hollywood diet”. There are many different diet options, but most include grapefruit or grapefruit juice at every meal.
Diet aficionados claim that grapefruit contains “fat-burning enzymes” that help burn fat, leading to weight loss. Proponents of the diet claim they lose weight in as little as 12 days.
The diet includes a daily protein-rich meal that includes drinking grapefruit or grapefruit juice at every meal.
Initial version includes a reduction in sugar and carbohydrates, including pasta, potatoes and rice. Some versions also cut calories up to 800 calories per day.
However, according to the nutritionist, there is “minimum evidence” that grapefruit contains “fat-burning enzymes.”
“Grapefruit doesn’t have any special weight loss or fat burning properties, so ultimately this diet only works if it makes you eat fewer calories. Any diet that helps you reduce your calorie intake will help you lose weight, and the key is to find a diet regimen that works for you. Unfortunately, fad diets are generally not easy to stick to in the long run, so any weight lost will be regained.”
Although grapefruit is low in calories and highly nutritious, there is “no evidence” of fat-burning enzymes associated with the fruit.
Grapefruit contains compounds such as naringenin that “may” affect metabolism and insulin sensitivity, potentially playing a role in weight management.
Grapefruit does contain vitamin C and antioxidants, but there is “minimal scientific evidence” to support the idea that it contains “fat-burning enzymes.”
“In my practice, I often emphasize the importance of a balanced diet and do not rely on any one food for drastic results.”
How effective is the grapefruit diet?
Experts say one of the reasons people may experience “rapid weight loss on the grapefruit diet is that it is “highly restrictive”.
Many versions of this diet advocate low-calorie intake. But remember, rapid weight loss is not synonymous with healthy weight loss. Losing weight too quickly can deplete muscle mass, affect metabolic rate, and even lead to nutritional deficiencies.
The grapefruit diet works simply because it is very restrictive, so people end up consuming fewer calories.
“To lose and maintain weight, take a long-term approach more effectively by eating a balanced diet, monitoring your total calorie intake, and exercising most days of the week.” about eliminating belly fat.
Important! Information provided for reference purposes. Ask a specialist about contraindications and side effects and under no circumstances self-medicate. At the first sign of illness, consult a doctor.