Questionable Statements
I have seen some of the following statements appear on various versions of The Mayo Clinic Diet:
- "It is crucial that you do not eliminate anything from the diet ... especially do not skip bacon at breakfast."
- "Grapefruit is what starts the fat-burning up process."
- "If you eat the combination of foods suggested, you will not get hungry."
All of these are questionable claims and not based on accepted nutrition guidelines or scientific research.
Empty Promises
Whichever version of The Mayo Clinic Diet you encounter, they all have one thing in common: They promise you will lose a lot of weight and very quickly.Like other "quick weight loss" diet plans, most of that weight is actually going to be water. Water weight is quickly gained back and doesn't actually reduce the amount of fat in your body.
If you do follow this diet long enough to begin losing significant weight (which I do not recommend), keep in mind that the faster you lose weight, the more likely it is to come back--and then some.
A loss of anything close to 52 pounds in a couple months isn't probable. Even if it was, common sense says that a diet bringing such drastic results so quickly just cannot be safe.
The Bottom Line
Always approach any new diet with caution. Quick results are never worth sacrificing good nutrition--or ultimately, your health.A sensible weight loss diet plan will allow a variety of healthful foods, contain at least 1,200 to 1,500 calories a day, and will incorporate exercise into its recommendations.
Learn More
To receive informative literature about the dangers of this and other fad diets, you can write to the Consumer Information Center, Department 378-C, Pueblo, CO. The Mayo Clinic has set up a special recorded message about the diet at (507) 538-0287.Before You Decide on Any Diet:
