Many people are looking for effective methods to lose weight quickly. The cabbage soup diet presents itself as an attractive solution, promising 7-day weight loss through a simple and accessible diet. This diet, which consists of consuming mainly a soup made from cabbage and other vegetables, is popular for its ability to help eliminate toxins while maintaining a feeling of satiety. However, it also raises questions about its lasting benefits and potential side effects. This article explores the cabbage soup diet and its many aspects in depth.
The Basics of the Cabbage Soup Diet
The cabbage soup diet is based on a low-calorie approach, where the individual consumes mainly a soup made from cabbage and other low-calorie vegetables. The principle is based on the fact that by incorporating foods high in fiber and low in calories, the body can burn more calories than it consumes. The soup itself, prepared with simple ingredients such as cabbage, tomatoes, onions and other vegetables, allows the body to eliminate excess while promoting satiety.
Preparation and recipe for cabbage soup
Preparing the soup is simple and quick, ideal for those who have a busy schedule. Here is the classic recipe:
- 1 green cabbage
- 6 large onions
- 2 green peppers
- 1 or 2 cans of peeled tomatoes
- 1 bunch of celery
- 3 carrots
- 1 or 2 vegetable bouillon cubes
- Salt, pepper, spices to taste
For preparation:
- Slice the onions and cut the cabbage, peppers, celery and carrots.
- Brown the onions in a large pot.
- Add the other vegetables and cover with water and broth.
- Season and simmer for 30 to 45 minutes.
This recipe can be adapted with variations, and several brands offer commercial versions of the cabbage soup. There are bags on the market like those of Karelea or other products based on detox cabbage soup.
Program and structure of the 7 day diet
The diet is spread over seven days, with each day having to follow specific dietary guidelines that complement the consumption of the soup. Here’s a look at how this diet progresses, day by day:
| Day | Allowed foods |
|---|---|
| 1 | Cabbage and fruit soup (except bananas) |
| 2 | Cabbage and fresh vegetable soup |
| 3 | Cabbage, fruit and vegetable soup |
| 4 | Soup, bananas and skimmed milk |
| 5 | Soup, beef and tomatoes |
| 6 | Soup, beef and vegetables as desired |
| 7 | Soup, brown rice, vegetables and unsweetened fruit juice |
Each day is constructed to maximize benefits while ensuring adequate nutritional intake despite the restrictive diet. This system is designed to help those who are beginning their journey of lose weight with cabbage soup.
Assessment of benefits and rapid results
Many people who have tested the cabbage soup diet report rapid benefits, including a feeling of lightness and a rapid reduction in centimeters. The vegetables that make up the soup are rich in essential nutrients, which likely improves overall health while dieting. In fact, the cabbage soup benefits manifested by improved digestion, reduced bloating and good hydration.
This main asset attracts many fans, especially those looking for a quick “detox cure”. However, it is imperative to combine this diet with a healthy and balanced diet after the 7-day period to maintain the results obtained.
Challenges and Criticisms of the Cabbage Soup Diet
Although the cabbage soup is popular, it does not fail to be criticized. Several experts and nutritionists say the diet is too restrictive and may not be suitable for everyone, especially people with specific nutritional needs. This type of diet may result in initial weight loss, primarily due to water loss rather than actual fat reduction.
The limits of the diet at the nutritional level
Another aspect to consider is that the diet does not provide all the necessary nutrients, such as essential fatty acids and certain vitamins. Prolonged consumption can therefore cause deficiencies. For a balanced approach, it is advisable to combine the cabbage soup recipes with other meals and nutritious foods after the diet period to avoid dietary imbalances.
What’s more, yo-yo effects are common, as returning to poor eating habits soon after ending the diet can lead to rapid weight gain. This point highlights the importance of consulting a health professional before starting this type of diet.
Integrate cabbage soup into your lifestyle
If you are considering joining the cabbage soup in your diet, start by using it as a component of a balanced diet rather than a quick fix. This will allow you to maintain the benefits of this vegetable while avoiding the pitfalls of an overly restrictive approach. For example, you may consider having the detox cabbage soup as a starter in your meals, or incorporate it into different creative and nourishing recipes to maintain the pleasure of eating.
Practical tips for succeeding in your 7-day challenge
Before you embark on the cabbage soup diet, here are some essential tips to optimize your experience:
- Make ahead: Make a large batch of soup in your kitchen that you can store in the refrigerator.
- Hydrate yourself: water is your ally, drink plenty of it throughout the days.
- Add spices: to avoid monotony, season your soup according to your tastes.
- Give yourself breaks: listen to your body and don’t push it if you feel tired or hungry.
Overview of expected results
At the end of the program, after seven days, a weight loss of 5 to 7 kilograms is often reported, which is quite encouraging for those looking for a boost to their weight loss journey. However, it is essential, after this period of “boost” diet, to turn to a balanced and sustainable diet, based on vegetables, lean proteins and whole grains. This will ensure results are maintained over the long term.
Brands like Annedelona Or Claude Bell Institute offer interesting variations that combine pleasure and health, making this ingredient very accessible in our modern kitchens.
