What Is The Cabbage Soup Diet?

Healthier Diet Alternatives

Although the cabbage soup diet promises quick weight loss, experts warn that it is too restrictive. By cutting out so many foods, patients may not get an adequate intake of nutrients, and this could put them at risk of vitamin and mineral deficiencies. The diet may potentially disrupt an individual's metabolism as well. Researchers suggest the DASH diet, Mediterranean diet, and medically supervised programs are healthier diet alternatives. These plans allow patients to eat a more balanced diet that is rich in protein, healthy fat, and necessary vitamins and minerals. Individuals on these plans can lose weight at a healthy, safe rate of one to two pounds per week, and they are much more likely to achieve long-term, sustainable weight loss. By losing weight at a slower, safer rate, patients also reduce their chance of losing muscle mass as a result of their diet.

Who Shouldn't Try The Cabbage Soup Diet

The cabbage soup diet is not recommended for individuals who have underlying medical conditions. For example, patients with cardiovascular disease or diabetes could be harmed by the diet, and it is not intended for patients who are severely obese or for anyone who has previously had any type of eating disorder. Cabbage soup tends to be very high in sodium, and this could pose risks for individuals with high blood pressure, kidney disease, or heart failure who typically need to follow a low-sodium diet. Additionally, the high levels of vitamin K in the cabbage could interfere with certain medications, including blood thinners like warfarin. Patients should always ask a medical professional before beginning any new diet plan, and individuals who choose to follow a restrictive diet may want to consider being closely monitored by a physician.