Grapefruit Diet

Full Name: The Grapefruit Diet

Origin: This diet dates back at least 30 years, but has been revised and updated multiple times

Description: Consume half a grapefruit with each meal, and drastically restrict caloric intake to less than 800 calories a day

Likes: Grapefruit, butter, bacon, vegetables, coffee

Dislikes: Dairy, bread, rice, pasta

Looking for: A 'bitter' dieter who believes this will zap their fat

Works Well With: A ton of coffee

This rapid weight loss diet was very popular in the 80's and continues to tempt gullible dieters even today. Fat-burning grapefruit is supposed to kick-start your metabolism and help with rapid weight loss. While following this diet, you can consume as much grapefruit (and other food) as you would like, so long as you keep your daily caloric intake to less than 800 calories a day.

This 12-day diet consists of very small meals that include, of course, half a grapefruit with each meal. While following the diet, you're encouraged to drink as much black coffee as you like, and you're going to need it when cutting your calories this low; you'll find your energy levels really dip. You can also eat as many vegetables as you'd like, and you can even prepare them in butter.

There is absolutely no scientific evidence to validate the theory that grapefruit can rev up your metabolism. The only reason you will lose weight while following the Grapefruit Diet is because you are severely restricting calories. This diet is also extremely difficult to follow for the long term - it's not balanced, is too low in protein, and includes too many saturated fats such as butter and bacon, to keep you feeling great. It can help with rapid weight loss, but won't help you keep off the weight or feel healthier.