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What Are the Benefits of a Fruit & Veggies Only Diet?

A diet of just fruit and vegetables is a variation of the raw food diet; another label might be a "detox" diet. On the raw food diet, one eats only fruits, nuts, vegetables, leafy greens, seeds and sprouts and other uncooked, plant-based food. If your current diet is leaving you lethargic and overweight, this diet could jump-start your body into a healthier lifestyle. If interested, grab a grocery cart, hit the produce aisle, and expect to see some amazing benefits of an all-fruit-and-vegetable diet.

  1. Weight Loss

    • Consuming only fruits and vegetables will lead to weight loss because of the low calorie and carbohydrate content of these foods. Additionally, few fruits (with the notable exception of avocados and olives) contain fat. Therefore, you could eat pounds of fruit and still lose weight because the nutrients responsible for weight gain are minimal or absent.

      This diet, however, may be accompanied by accompany hunger pangs while the body copes to get enough calories. Though "fat" is often associated with "weight gain," eat plenty of avocados and olives to help create a feeling of satiety. Otherwise, expect to be eating every hour.

    Lower Risk of Disease and Illness

    • Fruits and vegetables are rich in vitamins and antioxidants. Additionally, the Harvard School of Public Health lauds these foods for their ability to lower the risk of cancer, heart disease, high blood pressure and other illnesses.

      In fact, Sciencedaily.com links the correlation between poor health and obesity with a low consumption of fruits and vegetables. If your diet was previously low on these healthy foods, then this diet could greatly improve your overall health.

      Other benefits of a raw food diet, which is rich in fruits and vegetables, are outlined in the book, "The Raw Food Diet Revolution." They include improved digestion, increased energy and vitality, elimination or reduction of the allergies, colds and sickness, and less sleep.

    Healthier Body

    • Along with weight loss, a diet high in fruits and vegetables should cause an improvement in eye health, skin, hair, and nails. Each vegetable or fruit can improve certain body functions, depending on their chemical composition. Carrots, for example, are high in vitamin A. This vitamin is responsible for hair and nail growth. Avocados contain monounsaturated fats that make hair shiny and healthy. For a list of how each fruit can improve certain functions, see Resources below.

    Considerations

    • Should you consume only fruit and vegetables, your diet is devoid of food containing protein, iron, and other essential nutrients. Consider taking supplements during this diet; regardless, it is not sustainable and should be attempted for a limited time only.

      If you like the effects of a fruit-and-vegetable diet, consider transitioning into an all-raw or vegan diet. Including nuts, seeds and other whole foods in your diet can provide all of the nutrients needed for a sustainable diet. During the transition period, get your nutrient levels checked often to ensure you develop no deficiencies.

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