Cabbage Soup Diet Recipe: Complete 7-Day Plan & Facts

The classic cabbage soup diet recipe includes 1 head of cabbage, 6 tomatoes, 2 onions, 3 bell peppers, 2 carrots, 2 celery stalks, 1½ cups green beans, 1½ cups chopped parsley, 1½ cups chopped cilantro, 1½ cups chopped spinach, 6 cloves garlic, 8 cups vegetable broth, and seasonings. Simmer all vegetables in broth for 45-60 minutes until tender. This low-calorie soup forms the basis of the 7-day plan where it's consumed in unlimited quantities alongside specific daily food combinations.

Understanding the Cabbage Soup Diet Framework

The cabbage soup diet is a short-term eating plan centered around a simple vegetable-based soup. While not designed for long-term use, many people turn to this approach for quick weight loss before special events. The diet typically spans seven days, with the cabbage soup consumed freely throughout the day alongside specific daily food combinations.

Nutritional Profile of the Classic Recipe

One serving (about 1½ cups) of traditional cabbage soup diet recipe contains approximately:

Nutrient	Amount per Serving	Daily Value %
Calories	85-100	4-5%
Total Fat	0.5g	1%
Carbohydrates	20g	7%
Dietary Fiber	5g	18%
Protein	3g	6%
Vitamin C	70mg	78%
Vitamin K	85mcg	71%

This nutritional profile shows why the soup becomes the centerpiece of the diet—it's low in calories yet rich in fiber and certain vitamins. However, it lacks sufficient protein and healthy fats for balanced nutrition, which is why the diet shouldn't extend beyond one week without professional guidance.

Implementing the 7-Day Cabbage Soup Diet Plan

The standard cabbage soup diet follows this daily structure:

Day 1: Cabbage soup plus unlimited fruits (except bananas)
Day 2: Cabbage soup plus unlimited non-starchy vegetables
Day 3: Cabbage soup plus fruits and vegetables
Day 4: Cabbage soup plus up to 8 bananas and skim milk
Day 5: Cabbage soup plus lean protein (beef, chicken, or fish) and tomatoes
Day 6: Cabbage soup plus lean protein and vegetables
Day 7: Cabbage soup plus brown rice, vegetables, and unsweetened fruit juice

Health Considerations and Realistic Expectations

While many people report losing 5-10 pounds during the week-long cabbage soup diet, it's crucial to understand that much of this is water weight. The diet's extremely low calorie count (typically 900-1,200 calories daily) creates a significant deficit, but the restrictive nature makes it unsustainable long-term.

Nutritionists generally agree that rapid weight loss diets like the cabbage soup diet recipe should only be used occasionally and never as a primary weight management strategy. The diet lacks sufficient protein for muscle maintenance and omits healthy fats necessary for hormone regulation and nutrient absorption.

Creating a Healthier Cabbage Soup Variation

For those interested in the cabbage soup diet for weight loss but concerned about nutrition, consider these modifications to create a more balanced cabbage soup diet meal plan:

Add 1 cup of white beans or lentils for plant-based protein
Include 1 tablespoon of olive oil for healthy fats
Add turmeric and black pepper for anti-inflammatory benefits
Incorporate seaweed like kombu for mineral content
Use homemade bone broth instead of vegetable broth for additional nutrients

These adjustments transform the traditional cabbage soup diet recipe into something more nutritionally complete while maintaining its low-calorie foundation. This modified approach works better as part of a longer-term healthy eating pattern rather than a crash diet.

Sustainable Weight Management After the Diet

The real challenge with any short-term diet like the cabbage soup plan is maintaining results. Research shows that rapid weight loss often leads to regain unless followed by sustainable habits. Consider these strategies after completing your cabbage soup diet for weight loss:

Gradually reintroduce complex carbohydrates over 3-5 days
Maintain vegetable consumption at 50% of your plate
Continue drinking vegetable-based soups 2-3 times weekly
Implement portion control techniques learned during the diet
Combine with regular physical activity for lasting results

When to Consult a Healthcare Professional

While the cabbage soup diet recipe is generally safe for short-term use by healthy adults, certain individuals should consult a doctor before trying it:

People with diabetes or blood sugar regulation issues
Those with kidney problems
Individuals with a history of eating disorders
Pregnant or breastfeeding women
People taking medications affected by dietary changes

A registered dietitian can help modify the traditional cabbage soup diet meal plan to accommodate specific health conditions while still providing the structure many find helpful for jumpstarting weight loss efforts.

Frequently Asked Questions

How much weight can you realistically lose on the cabbage soup diet?

Most people lose 5-10 pounds during the 7-day cabbage soup diet, but much of this is water weight. Sustainable fat loss typically ranges from 1-3 pounds. The diet creates a significant calorie deficit, but the restrictive nature means weight often returns if regular eating habits resume immediately after completion.

Can you modify the cabbage soup diet for vegetarian or vegan diets?

Yes, the traditional cabbage soup diet recipe is naturally vegetarian. For a vegan version, simply ensure you use vegetable broth instead of any meat-based broths. The standard plan already focuses on plant-based foods, making it adaptable for both vegetarian and vegan lifestyles without significant changes to the cabbage soup diet meal plan.

How can you prevent feeling hungry on the cabbage soup diet?

The cabbage soup diet allows unlimited soup consumption, which helps manage hunger. For additional satisfaction, add more fiber-rich vegetables like broccoli or Brussels sprouts to your soup. Drinking plenty of water throughout the day and ensuring you're getting the permitted foods for each day of the 7-day cabbage soup diet plan will also help minimize hunger pangs.

Is the cabbage soup diet safe for people with high blood pressure?

People with high blood pressure should exercise caution with the standard cabbage soup diet recipe, as store-bought broths often contain high sodium levels. To make a heart-healthy version, use low-sodium or no-salt-added broth, and consider adding potassium-rich foods like tomatoes and spinach which can help balance sodium effects. Consulting your physician before starting any new diet plan is always recommended.

Can you extend the cabbage soup diet beyond 7 days for more weight loss?

Extending the cabbage soup diet beyond 7 days isn't recommended due to potential nutrient deficiencies. The diet lacks sufficient protein, healthy fats, and certain vitamins and minerals needed for long-term health. If you're seeking extended weight loss support, consider transitioning to a more balanced eating plan after completing the 7-day cabbage soup diet, incorporating elements you found helpful while ensuring complete nutrition.