The egg diet is a diet that is high in protein and low in carbohydrates. It is also low in calories. As the name implies, eggs are a big part of this diet, and they are also one of its main sources of protein. In some versions of the diet, eggs are the only food eaten. In this article, we look at whether this fad diet has any merits and whether it is healthful and safe to try.
Egg diet meal plan
There are several different versions of the egg diet. In each one, eggs are the main source of protein. Water and zero calorie beverages are permitted in all versions of the egg diet.
The main versions of the egg diet include:
1.Traditional egg diet
In the traditional egg diet, protein from other sources is allowed. Lean protein and low carbohydrate vegetables, such as kale, broccoli, and spinach, are allowed. Fruits are usually limited to 1 or 2 servings a day. Carbohydrates, such as pasta, bread, and rice, are off limits.
An example of a meal plan could include:
Breakfast: Two eggs and a low-carb vegetable.
Lunch: Lean protein with a green salad.
Dinner: Eggs or lean protein and low-carb vegetables.
2.Egg and grapefruit diet
On this meal plan, a person follows the same low carbohydrate, high protein guidelines as above. They also eat half a grapefruit with each meal.
An example of a meal plan could include:
Breakfast: Two eggs and half a grapefruit.
Lunch: One serving of lean protein with spinach and half a grapefruit.
Dinner: One serving of lean protein, such as fish or eggs, with half a grapefruit.
3.Extreme egg diet
This version of the egg diet only allows for eggs and water at every meal. It is very strict and probably difficult for most people to stick with for any length of time.
Eating one type of food is not a safe way to lose weight. The extreme egg diet is not recommended and may lead to nutritional deficiencies.
Is it effective?
All versions of the egg diet result in eating fewer calories, so maybe effective for losing weight in the short-term. The diet is high in protein, which has been shown to help with weight loss.
Although eggs do contain essential nutrients and weight loss may occur, an egg diet may not be the best approach for losing weight and keeping it off. Even if a person does lose weight, they are unlikely to maintain such a strict diet long-term, so they may easily regain what they have lost. Also, the diet may leave some people fatigued and sluggish throughout the day because of its carbohydrate restrictions.