The red diet is a fad diet that is characterized by eating only red fruits and vegetables. This is not a medically recognized diet, but it is one that can have moderately successful results, depending on the individual. While on the red diet, some people have reported to lose about 1 lb. per day, but care must be taken while on the diet, because eating strictly red fruits and vegetables does not satisfy all nutritional requirements.
Features
The basic rule of the red diet is to eat only red fruits and vegetables such as strawberries, apples, grapes, cherries, tomatoes, grapefruit, red bell pepper, raspberries, beats and radishes. These fruits and vegetables are then supplemented with other foods, such as a dollop of peanut butter on an apple or some fat free salad dressing on a tomato or pepper.
The typical red diet cycle is to follow the diet for a few days (usually 4 or 5) and then a few days off. This allows you to eat your favorite non-red foods in moderation as well as meet some of the other nutritional requirements.
Function
Although it is a prime example of a fad diet, the red diet can be used to achieve a quick weight loss. It is not uncommon to lose up to 5 lbs. in a week when on the red diet, but because of the types of foods on the diet, it is not sustainable. Continuing strictly on the red diet for more than a week would lead to undernourishment, and taking a few days off the red diet is usually not enough to sustain it long term.
Benefits
Red fruits and vegetables are rich in vitamin C, fiber and antioxidants, and many have other nutrients that promote healthy living. Watermelon, red grapefruit and tomatoes have phytochemicals that are essential to cardiovascular health, while cherries and strawberries have phytochemicals that help improve memory. Red apples also promote a healthy heart, and red bell peppers are an excellent source of beta-carotene. These foods are also low in fat, and enable weight loss.
Warning
While there are some nutritional benefits associated with the red diet, it lacks necessary vitamins. Red fruits and vegetables are virtually void of vitamin A, which is found in green, leafy foods and is vital to healthy vision and an immune system, and vitamin B, which in needed for healthy skin and promotes cell growth and is found in potatoes, bananas, turkey and tuna.
The red diet is also void of protein and calcium, which are essential to a healthy body.
Considerations
Consider using the red diet in moderation, such as eating one meal a day comprised of red fruits and vegetables while eating two other well-balanced meals, or using the red diet one day a week. With these methods, you'll gain some of the health benefits but won't sacrifice your body's nutritional needs.
If you're going to make a full-time attempt at the red diet, be sure to consult your doctor and take nutritional supplements to get the missing vitamins and minerals.
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