Broccoli and spinach are good choice which can add some iron to your diet. Avoid starchy vegetables such as dry beans or sweetcorn. [3] X Research source
Check the best before dates on the packet, and put off buying until later in the week if necessary. Always look for lean meat.
The cabbage diet should only be followed for 7 days and allows you to eat an unlimited amount of cabbage during this 1 week plan.
If you are using tinned tomatoes, pour these into the pot. Add a covering of water and bring to the boil. Consider adding some bouillon or a stock cube for flavour. Allow it to simmer for a couple of hours. Taste and season when it has reduced to the consistency you like.
Eat fruit throughout the day But don’t eat bananas on day one. Stick with apples, oranges and other fruits.
For example you could boil or steam some broccoli or spinach. Have a baked potato with a little soup. [7] X Research source Don’t eat any fruit.
Don’t eat potatoes on this day. You should also avoid bananas on this day. All other fruit and veg are fine.
Be sure to get skimmed or at least semi-skimmed milk. You might like to combine the bananas and milk for a basic milkshake.
Eat up to six tomatoes. You can eat the tomatoes raw, or grill them. Don’t fry them. You should still eat the soup at least once today. Be sure to drink 6-8 glasses of water on this day.
The beef and veg should supplement not replace the cabbage soup. Don’t eat potatoes on this day. Try not to use too much oil when you cook the beef.
You can also drink some unsweetened fruit juices on this day. Juicing fruit at home will guarantee there is no added sugar and give you fresh delicious fruit juice. Don’t continue the diet beyond seven days.
Any gaps in the plan or uncertainties about what you should be eating could easily lead to you slipping from the programme. Having a prominent and detailed meal plan will help you take control of the diet and track your progress.
This also applies for sugary soda drinks. You might not immediately associate what you drink with your weight, but it’s a crucial element that you shouldn’t overlook. [14] X Research source Drinking lots of water throughout will keep you hydrated as well as helping to control your appetite.
Given the severity of the diet it is unlikely that you will have the energy to do strenuous exercise, but try to maintain a reasonable level of gentle physical activity. For example, go for a casual walk in the evening. If you feel too tired or lethargic then reconsider the diet and replace it with a more balanced approach to healthy eating and exercise.
Visualise the end day getting closer all the time and tick off each mealtime with a flourish. It is an achievement to get to the end of the week so you should be proud of your willpower and commitment. Now to see lasting benefits adopt a balanced diet and take regular exercise.
