What is the Sirtfood Diet and Does it Work?

This quarantine, you have probably been aware that stars like Adele, Pippa Middleton, and Lorraine Pascale have had great success in their weight loss journey. These prominent figures have followed the sirtfood diet, a health regimen developed by authors Aidan Goggins and Glen Matten. With everyone looking for an opportunity to improve their health this year, this diet has certainly had people talking. Here is what you need to know about sirt foods and what makes the diet effective. 

What is sirt food?

Sirt is an abbreviation for a group of proteins called sirtuins. Food rich in sirtuins are called sirt food. According to the creators of this diet, sirtuins are responsible for regulating several functions in the body. These proteins are said to aid in metabolism as well as aging and other bodily functions.

The diet encourages sirt-rich food, including green leafy vegetables and lean proteins, and a special green smoothie. At a glance, it looks a lot like any other diet that is more plant-based and restricts caloric intake. But the diet became popular because it not only allows but encourages consumption of red wine and dark chocolate, two guilty pleasures that are often restricted in other diets.

Sirtfood Diet: An Overview

The diet is divided into two main phases, which in the first week includes extreme calorie restriction and special green smoothies to replace full meals. The second phase is a little more lenient, decreasing the calorie intake restrictions and allowing more meals, but maintains the green smoothie as part of the day. 

Here are a few listed food items that qualify as sirt foods:

  • Green tea
  • Coffee
  • Celery 
  • Parsley
  • Kale
  • Capers
  • Blueberry
  • Strawberry
  • Walnuts 
  • Red Onions
  • Turmeric

…and more.

Exercise is also encouraged as part of the regimen. A glass of red wine and chocolate can be incorporated on any of the days as long as it is counted in the daily calorie intake level. 

Does it work?

The sirtfood diet can be effective for those looking to lose weight. From a scientific standpoint, the results are testimonial, and there aren’t many peer-reviewed studies to back up their claims. Ultimately, this diet is just like any regular diet with already known healthy food. But that doesn’t mean that it isn’t helpful. Diets like these can get people interested in living a healthy life, which is the ultimate goal in getting into diets in the first place.

This diet encourages balanced meals and exercise, so there’s no harm in following it. Just make sure that you stay consistent and continue to choose healthier food for you. The first phase of the diet is difficult, but if you are in no rush to lose weight or have other health goals in mind, you can skip it. You can also adjust some aspects if it is too restrictive, especially since it drastically cuts calories. As long as it keeps you healthy and happy, you can continue the plan for as long as you intend.