The Rice Diet, Perfect for Losing Weight Before the Holidays

The Rice Diet has a history of almost 80 years. People often used to lose weight before the winter holidays, so they can look fabulous.  But what makes this weight loss program more special than others?

This diet consists of three phases and promises a dramatic weight loss after the first two phases. The third one is considered the “maintaining” phase and weight loss is reduced to two-three pounds a week. Also, after the two phases, the regime can be considered a healthy lifestyle and not a restrictive diet.

The rice diet is not only a weight loss program but also an advisable diet for those who suffer from diabetes or heart disease. Because of its strictness it is recommended to consult a doctor before starting this diet.  The first phase is a restrictive one which means that the daily calorie intake is very limited. It is also known as the detoxifying phase. The three phases include about 30 types of food such as fruits, juices, iron supplements, sugar, and, obviously, rice.

The first day may be the toughest day, due to the fact that all three meals include the same foods: two starches (you can choose from one slice of bread, a third of cup of cooked rice or beans, or half a cup of cooked pasta) and two fruits (medium size). From the second day until the seventh, breakfast includes one starch, a non-fat dairy (one cup of milk, half a cup of cottage cheese, or a cup of yoghurt) and a fruit. For lunch and dinner you can eat three starches, three vegetables and a fruit.

Because of its low calorie specific, the Rice Diet limits the salt intake, considering also that the goal is to lose weight.  It is a known fact that salt increases the appetite and by limiting the amount of salt, there are other benefits such as reducing blood pressure, the cholesterol from the body and, of course, the weight.

Another key word of this diet is “low fat”. The daily intake includes 20 grams of protein, five grams of fat and a maximum of 150 grams of sodium. The disadvantage of this weight loss program is that it’s costly because supervision is mandatory.