Cabbage Soup Diet

Byarlo Jack

The cabbage soup diet is a short-term, low-calorie eating plan designed to promote quick weight loss, typically followed for seven days. It centers around eating unlimited amounts of a simple, vegetable-based cabbage soup while pairing it with specific foods on each day, such as fruits, vegetables and lean proteins. Many people use it as a temporary jumpstart to healthier eating or as a reset after overeating. While it is not meant for long-term use, it can help reduce bloating, support hydration and temporarily lower daily calorie intake.

Why You’ll Love This Diet

The cabbage soup diet is extremely budget-friendly, easy to follow and requires very little cooking. Because the soup is low in calories but high in volume, it keeps you full without overeating. It can help you break unhealthy snacking habits, improve vegetable intake and kickstart motivation for more sustainable weight-loss habits. It’s also simple—no complicated rules, no calorie counting and no expensive ingredients.

Nutritional Information

The cabbage soup itself is high in fiber, vitamins C and K, antioxidants and hydration from the broth. However, the overall diet is low in calories, protein and healthy fats, so it’s not intended for long-term nutrition.

Time Taken

Preparing the cabbage soup takes about 20–30 minutes. The diet itself is typically followed for seven days.

Ingredients

  • Cabbage, chopped
  • Onion, sliced
  • Carrots, chopped
  • Celery, chopped
  • Bell peppers
  • Garlic
  • Tomatoes (fresh or canned)
  • Vegetable broth or water
  • Salt, pepper and herbs
  • Optional: green beans, mushrooms, zucchini

Instructions

Sauté onions, garlic and celery briefly, then add chopped cabbage, carrots, peppers, tomatoes and broth. Bring the soup to a boil and then reduce to a simmer until vegetables are tender. Season with herbs and pepper. Eat this soup freely throughout the day, following the daily food guidelines of the diet.

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You Must Know

This is not a balanced diet. It’s low in calories and meant only for short-term use. Most weight lost will be water weight. People with medical conditions should seek professional guidance first.

Storage Tips

Store the soup in the refrigerator for four days or freeze portions for up to three months. Reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave.

Ingredient Substitutions

  • Use chicken broth instead of vegetable broth for extra flavor.
  • Add spices like paprika, curry powder or chili flakes for variety.
  • Swap tomatoes with tomato juice for a richer base.

Serving Suggestions

Serve hot with a squeeze of lemon for brightness. Fresh herbs such as parsley or cilantro add extra freshness. Do not pair with high-calorie sides if following the diet strictly.

Cultural and Historical Context

The cabbage soup diet gained major popularity in the 1980s and 1990s as a quick-fix detox-style regimen. Though not endorsed by nutritionists for long-term use, it remains popular because of how simple and inexpensive it is.

Seasonal Adaptations

In winter, add heavier vegetables like turnips or parsnips. In summer, lighten it with zucchini and fresh tomatoes. Adjust spices depending on seasonal cravings.

Success Stories

Many people report losing several pounds within a week, feeling lighter and reducing bloating. It’s often used as a motivational starting point before transitioning into healthier, long-term lifestyle changes.

Freezer Meal Conversion

Make a large batch of the cabbage soup, cool completely, and freeze in single-serving containers for quick access throughout the week.

Pro Tips

Drink plenty of water to stay hydrated. Season the soup well so you don’t get bored. Listen to your body, if you feel weak, add extra vegetables or lean protein.

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Chef’s Special Tips

Blend half of the soup for a thicker texture if you prefer. Add a dash of vinegar for depth. Mix fresh herbs at the end instead of cooking them to keep flavors bright.

Conclusion

The cabbage soup diet is a simple, short-term plan that can help you reset your eating habits and jumpstart weight loss. While it’s not a long-term solution, it can be useful for quick results and motivation. If you want the 7-day cabbage soup diet plan, variations, or a healthier long-term meal plan, just let me know.

FAQs

How much weight can I lose on the cabbage soup diet?
Most people lose 5 to 10 pounds in a week, but most of this is water weight, not fat loss. Results vary depending on metabolism, activity level and starting weight.

Is the cabbage soup diet safe?
It can be safe for short-term use for healthy individuals, but it is not nutritionally balanced. People with diabetes, heart conditions or other health concerns should consult a professional first.

Can I follow the diet for more than 7 days?
No, it is not recommended to follow this diet for longer than a week because it lacks essential nutrients like protein and healthy fats.

Can I exercise while on the cabbage soup diet?
Light exercise is okay, but intense workouts may cause fatigue due to the low-calorie nature of the diet.

Can I add salt or seasonings to the soup?
Yes, seasonings like herbs, pepper, paprika or garlic can be added. Use salt moderately to avoid bloating.