Overview

The grapefruit diet is a low-calorie diet that involves eating grapefruit or drinking its juice at all meals. Only 800 calories are consumed daily.

The grapefruit diet is based on the theory that grapefruits contain a fat-burning enzyme that helps the body use fat more quickly. But this enzyme has never been identified. Weight loss from this diet is likely due to severe calorie restriction.

People sometimes use the grapefruit diet for obesity and other conditions, but there is no good scientific evidence to support these uses.

Interactions with grapefruit are well documented. Before adding it to your diet, check with your healthcare provider if you have any health conditions or if you take medications or supplements.



Uses & Effectiveness

We currently have no information for Grapefruit Diet overview.

Side Effects



Special Precautions and Warnings



There isn't enough reliable information to know if the grapefruit diet is safe or what the side effects might be. However, the grapefruit diet might not provide enough calories, essential vitamins, minerals, or other nutrients. This could cause malnutrition. Also, consuming large quantities of grapefruit might cause side effects. See the grapefruit monograph for more information.

Pregnancy and breast-feeding: There isn't enough reliable information to know if the grapefruit is safe while pregnant or breast-feeding. Stay on the side and avoid use.

Interactions

We currently have no information for Grapefruit Diet overview.

Dosing

The grapefruit diet is a strict diet that only allows about 800 calories daily. One half of a grapefruit or 200 mL of grapefruit juice must be consumed at each meal. A typical breakfast includes grapefruit, two eggs, two slices of bacon, and a cup of tea or black coffee. A typical lunch or dinner includes grapefruit, a salad, a small amount of meat, an unlimited amount of "non-starchy" vegetables, and a cup of tea or black coffee.
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CONDITIONS OF USE AND IMPORTANT INFORMATION: This information is meant to supplement, not replace advice from your doctor or healthcare provider and is not meant to cover all possible uses, precautions, interactions or adverse effects. This information may not fit your specific health circumstances. Never delay or disregard seeking professional medical advice from your doctor or other qualified health care provider because of something you have read on WebMD. You should always speak with your doctor or health care professional before you start, stop, or change any prescribed part of your health care plan or treatment and to determine what course of therapy is right for you.

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