Lose Weight with the 12 Day Grapefruit Diet

Did you realize that the 12 day grapefruit diet is not a new concept? The original plan, to lose weight, was developed in the 1930's. This fruit appears to be a dieter's dream. It has no fat, is high in fiber and low in calories. It also carries benefits for your skin as it is high in vitamin C.  

So how does this diet work? It's very simple. You eat half a grapefruit before every meal. The enzyme it contains reduces your appetite so you consume fewer calories. It also speeds up the fat burning process helping you to lose weight. Everyone knows that if you use more energy than you take in from the food you eat, you will lose weight. Some studies suggest that you could lose up to ten pounds in less than two weeks simply by introducing this change. However, you would have a better chance of success if you also cut your portion sizes, ate four or five smaller meals rather than three large ones, and took in more exercise to lose weight.

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It is completely pointless thinking that one simple change in your lifestyle is going to result in a big weight loss.  You need to review all areas of your life.  Do you eat food because you are bored or upset? Do you get enough exercise? Most Americans are not physically active enough to lose weight. You don't suddenly need to become a gym fanatic, but a little extra activity every day will help. If you sincerely want to lose weight, you can think of a thousand ways to add some movement to your sedentary lifestyle. You could take the stairs instead of the elevator or escalator, get off the metro or bus one stop early, walk to the store, etc.

In the same way, you can make progress by making simple changes at mealtimes. Instead of frying your food which only adds extra calories, try grilling, baking, or steaming. Learn how to cook rather than relying on prepackaged meals that add dollars to your bills as well as pounds to your waistline. Use herbs and spices to flavor your meals rather than salt to help prevent fluid retention.

Eat more fruit and vegetables to lose weight. They are high in fiber, low in calories, and very filling. Your skin will glow from all the extra vitamins and minerals you are consuming. Don't eat carbohydrates after 5pm in the evening as your body will not have sufficient time to use up all the energy they release. The body converts excess energy into fat.

Eat protein but choose the leaner cuts of meat and forget about sausages and other processed foods for now. Don't exclude all treats, but go for quality rather than quantity. If you really want to lose weight stop eating when you are full and not when your plate is empty.  Don't mistake being thirsty for feeling hungry. And stop ingesting hidden calories via flavored waters, fizzy pop, and perhaps the biggest culprit of all, alcohol.

You can lose weight and shrink your waistline by using the 12 day grapefruit diet, but only if you combine it with a healthy eating and exercise program.