The cabbage soup diet is a popular weight-loss plan that promises quick results through a simple, low-calorie meal plan. This guide will cover everything you need to know about the cabbage soup diet, including the recipe ingredients, a 7-day meal plan, variations for heart patients, and how it fits into a healthy lifestyle.
Recipe Ingredients
The foundation of the cabbage soup diet is, of course, the cabbage soup itself. Here are the essential ingredients you'll need:
- 1 head of cabbage, chopped
- 6 large green onions, chopped
- 2 green bell peppers, diced
- 1-2 cans of diced tomatoes (14.5 oz each)
- 1 bunch of celery, chopped
- 3 carrots, sliced
- 1 package of dry onion soup mix
- 1-2 cubes of bouillon (optional)
- 6 cups of water or vegetable juice
- Salt, pepper, and other seasonings to taste
7 Day Soup Diet
The cabbage soup diet is designed as a 7-day plan. Here's a breakdown of what to eat each day:
- Day 1: Unlimited cabbage soup and fruit (except bananas).
- Day 2: Unlimited cabbage soup and vegetables (avoid peas, corn, and beans). You can have a baked potato with butter for dinner.
- Day 3: Unlimited cabbage soup, fruits, and vegetables (except bananas and potatoes).
- Day 4: Unlimited cabbage soup, bananas, and skim milk.
- Day 5: Unlimited cabbage soup, 10-20 ounces of beef (or chicken or fish), and up to 6 fresh tomatoes.
- Day 6: Unlimited cabbage soup, beef (or chicken or fish), and vegetables.
- Day 7: Unlimited cabbage soup, brown rice, unsweetened fruit juices, and vegetables.
Cabbage Soup Diet Recipe
To prepare the cabbage soup:
- In a large pot, combine all the vegetables.
- Add the canned tomatoes, onion soup mix, and bouillon cubes if using.
- Pour in water or vegetable juice to cover the vegetables.
- Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer until vegetables are tender (about 30-45 minutes).
- Season with salt, pepper, and other seasonings as desired.
Cabbage Soup for Heart Patients
For heart patients, the cabbage soup diet can be modified to reduce sodium and include heart-healthy ingredients. Use low-sodium broth or water instead of bouillon cubes and avoid high-sodium ingredients like dry onion soup mix. Include more potassium-rich vegetables and add lean proteins like chicken or fish to make it a more balanced meal plan.
Old Fashioned Cabbage Soup
For those who prefer a more traditional taste, the old-fashioned cabbage soup can be a comforting option. This version includes:
- 1 head of cabbage, chopped
- 1 large onion, chopped
- 2 cloves of garlic, minced
- 2 large carrots, sliced
- 2 potatoes, diced
- 4 cups of vegetable broth
- 1 can of diced tomatoes
- 1 teaspoon of dried thyme
- 1 bay leaf
- Salt and pepper to taste
Combine all ingredients in a large pot, bring to a boil, then simmer until vegetables are tender.
Weight Loss Foods
The cabbage soup diet is often paired with other weight-loss foods to maximize results. These include:
- Lean proteins (chicken, fish, tofu)
- Fresh fruits and vegetables
- Whole grains (brown rice, quinoa)
- Healthy fats (avocado, olive oil)
- Low-fat dairy products
Incorporating these foods into your diet alongside the cabbage soup can help create a balanced and sustainable approach to weight loss.
Conclusion
The cabbage soup diet offers a quick and easy way to jumpstart weight loss. By following the simple recipe ingredients and the 7-day meal plan, you can see significant results in a short period. Remember to listen to your body and consult with a healthcare professional before starting any new diet, especially if you have health conditions like heart disease. Enjoy the journey to a healthier you with the delicious and versatile cabbage soup!