The Valencia Diet Is Trending—Here’s What to Know

The Valencia Diet Is Trending—Here’s What to Know

It seems like every other week there’s a new health and wellness fad going viral on social media. Recently, the Valencia diet has gained popularity, promising a balanced and sustainable approach to weight loss. But is it healthy? And can it really deliver the results it claims?

What is the Valencia Diet?

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The Valencia diet was created by Dr. Daniel Valencia and focuses on whole foods, specifically fruits and vegetables. The diet seems to be centered around whole, unprocessed foods, including plant-based protein, fruits, vegetables, legumes, nuts, and seeds. According to Dr. Valencia, you can eat as many fruits and veggies as you’d like, and for breakfast and dinner, you should incorporate non-meat protein sources like eggs, Greek yogurt, or tofu.

The diet chart recommends a caloric intake of around 1,500 calories per day, along with a recommended 1 gram of protein per pound of bodyweight.

Is the Valencia Diet Healthy?

Registered dietitian Daisy Mercer, RD, weighs in on the Valencia diet, stating that it generally aligns with current dietary guidelines as long as you’re eating adequate amounts. While there isn’t much research specifically supporting the Valencia diet, Mercer notes that some of the studies around the Mediterranean diet can apply, especially when considering the emphasis on plant-based eating.

The reduction of meat consumption, as seen in the Valencia diet, has been shown to have several benefits, including less burden on the kidneys and lower cholesterol levels. Mercer also emphasizes that the diet may be less restrictive than other fad diets, as it focuses on adding variety to your food rather than restricting food groups.

How to Do the Valencia Diet

If you’ve decided to give the Valencia diet a try, Mercer recommends trying to have a balance of carbs, fat, and protein at each meal. She suggests using the Healthier Plate visual to help with portion sizes and ensure you’re eating enough for your individual needs. If you often feel fatigued or hungry an hour or so after eating, you may need to eat a little more.

It’s also important to keep an eye out for vitamin and mineral deficiencies, as meat products are full of essential nutrients like B12, iron, magnesium, and more. While plant-based diets can provide many benefits, they may not be able to provide as many of these essential nutrients.

To make the most of the Valencia diet, don’t be afraid to get creative in the kitchen with seasonings and flavors. There are plenty of ways to make delicious meals from whole fruits, vegetables, and grains!

Conclusion

The Valencia diet seems to be a promising approach to weight loss and overall health, focusing on whole, unprocessed foods and emphasizing plant-based eating. While there isn’t much research specifically supporting the diet, the benefits of a Mediterranean-style diet can be applied to the Valencia diet. With its balanced and sustainable approach, the Valencia diet may be a great option for those looking to make a positive change in their eating habits.

FAQs

Q: What is the Valencia diet?
A: The Valencia diet is a balanced and sustainable approach to weight loss and overall health, focusing on whole, unprocessed foods and emphasizing plant-based eating.

Q: Is the Valencia diet healthy?
A: Yes, the Valencia diet generally aligns with current dietary guidelines as long as you’re eating adequate amounts.

Q: How does the Valencia diet work?
A: The diet recommends a caloric intake of around 1,500 calories per day, along with a recommended 1 gram of protein per pound of bodyweight. It emphasizes eating whole, unprocessed foods, including fruits, vegetables, legumes, nuts, and seeds.

Q: Can I still eat meat on the Valencia diet?
A: No, the Valencia diet focuses on reducing meat consumption and emphasizing plant-based eating.

Q: Will I need to take supplements on the Valencia diet?
A: It’s possible that you may need to take supplements, especially if you’re not getting enough essential nutrients from plant-based sources.

Q: Can I follow the Valencia diet if I’m lactose intolerant or gluten-free?
A: Yes, the Valencia diet is flexible and can be adapted to accommodate dietary restrictions.