Before summer it is common fad diets appear gaining popularity quickly without anyone really knowing what they are about. This is the case of the Sirtfood diet, a dietary approach that has gained significant popularity in recent years, partly due to follow-up from celebrities such as the singer Adele. But, what exactly does it consist of?
The Sirtfood diet, in essence, involves a reduction in caloric intake—initially quite drastic to 1,000 Kcal, combined with regular physical exercise. So far, these are concepts that any weight loss diet includes. New aspect of this diet is the emphasis on the substantial consumption of specific foods, “sirtfoods,” that are supposed to stimulate SIRT genes.
SIRT genes are those that encode sirtuins, proteins that perform key functions in the body that could influence aging, metabolism, and weight loss. Their activity is influenced by factors such as diet, exercise, and caloric restriction. When activated, sirtuins are able to activate the metabolism, promoting fat elimination, improving the body’s efficiency in burning fat, and increasing energy expenditure.
While sirtuins are a legitimate subject of scientific research, the specific claims of the Sirtfood Diet, regarding weight loss and health benefits, are not yet fully supported by robust scientific evidence. Human studies are still limited and, it would be a mistake to assume that research done in laboratories will have the same results in real-life situations, especially since many other factors can affect these outcomes.
There is nothing wrong with incorporating these “sirtfoods” into a balanced diet. Allowable foods on this diet are fruits and vegetables and fatty fish. Obviously, consuming vegetables and fruits instead of ultra-processed foods will be better for our health and overall well-being.
However, to lose two kilograms (about 4.4 pounds) per week is unrealistic and potentially unhealthy for most individuals. During the drastic calorie restriction, the weight loss mainly comes to the loss of water, muscle mass, and glycogen stores in the body. When calorie intake increases, the body quickly replenishes its glycogen stores, leading to an immediate regain of some of the lost weight. Even though calorie restriction has been suggested in some studies to enhance health and extend lifespan, this approach comes with risks and may not be suitable for everyone.
For this reason, before following any of these trend diet, it is crucial to consult with a nutritionist or healthcare professional to understand its foundations. If you’re looking to lose weight in a healthy way without going hungry or risking your well-being, try the Mediterranean diet which is supported by solid scientific research and naturally includes foods rich in sirtuins, like olive oil, onions, nuts, and cereals.
The Sirtfood diet has gained popularity in recent years for its focus on foods rich in sirtuins, proteins believed to help regulate metabolism, burn fat, and improve cellular health.
This diet has gained particular traction in Europe and the United States, largely due to celebrities like Adele, who claims to have achieved significant weight loss through this method.
At Alnut, we are committed to promoting health and wellness through nutritious and healthy food choices. Our product range not only caters to the consumer’s needs at every stage of life but also aligns perfectly with the Sirtfood diet. That’s why we offer recipes featuring ingredients such as:
– Turmeric and cinnamon, known for their potent anti-inflammatory properties.
– Apple and broccoli, rich in polyphenols.
– Extra virgin olive oil, essential in both the Mediterranean and Sirtfood diets.
– Red fruits (raspberries, strawberries, and blackberries), loaded with antioxidants.
– Kale and chia seeds, superfoods that boost metabolism with their substantial nutritional content.
– Salmon, an excellent source of omega-3 and sirtuins.
By incorporating these ingredients, our products not only deliver exceptional flavour but also support your journey towards a healthier and more balanced lifestyle.