Today, there are many diet methods you can try based on your individual needs and physical condition. One method gaining popularity on social media is the 30/30/30 diet, which is claimed to help with weight loss and blood sugar control. But what exactly is the 30/30/30 diet method? Let’s break it down.
Understanding the 30/30/30 diet method
The 30/30/30 diet is a straightforward approach that consists of eating 30 grams of protein within the first 30 minutes of waking up, followed by 30 minutes of moderate exercise. Timothy Ferriss introduced this method in his book "The 4-Hour Body," and biologist Gary Brecka popularized it on social media.
Unlike some other diets, the 30/30/30 method does not impose strict restrictions on what you can or cannot eat. Instead, it focuses on increasing your metabolism to aid in weight loss. This method is beneficial for both weight loss and heart health.
How to follow the 30/30/30 diet method
The 30/30/30 diet focuses on developing healthy habits for protein intake and exercise. Begin your day by consuming 30 grams of protein within the first 30 minutes of waking up. Carbohydrates and fats can also be included, but the most important thing is to get 30 grams of protein.
Next, you should exercise for 30 minutes. The 30/30/30 method recommends low-intensity cardio that slightly raises your heart rate while keeping it below 135 beats per minute.
Here’s how you might apply the 30/30/30 diet method:
Breakfast:
- Banana smoothie with protein powder
- Low-sugar yogurt topped with nuts and berries
- Toast with avocado, two eggs, and salmon
- Toast with peanut butter or eggs and cheese
- A salad bowl with vegetables or fruit, topped with tofu, eggs, nuts, or cheese
Exercise:
- Jogging
- Brisk walking
- Cycling
- Running on a treadmill
- Dancing
Is the 30/30/30 diet method effective?
Like any diet, the 30/30/30 method might work well for some people. Eating protein at breakfast has several benefits, including:
- Keeping you full for longer
- Stabilizing blood sugar levels
- Reducing insulin resistance
Following this diet with cardiovascular exercise can help you lose weight. The CDC recommends at least 30 minutes of daily exercise or physical activity, or 150 minutes per week, to maintain cardiovascular health and prevent chronic diseases. Eating more protein can also help you lose weight faster by keeping you satisfied for longer.
The effectiveness of this diet is determined by your habits and lifestyle, which go beyond breakfast and exercise. If you lead a less active lifestyle, this method may help you lose weight. However, if you do not manage your lunch and dinner calorie intake, it may be difficult to achieve your goal weight using this method alone.
Experts point out that the 30/30/30 diet lacks meal regulation for the rest of the day. If you follow the 30/30/30 method in the morning but eat high-calorie foods for lunch and dinner, the diet may not be effective.
The 30/30/30 diet may be successful and sustainable for some people in the long run, but it may not work for everyone. If you're thinking about starting a diet, you should consult with a dietitian or doctor to find an eating plan and lifestyle that work for you.
You can also make use of the consultation features that are available in the Ai Care application by downloading the Ai Care application from the App Store or Play Store.
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- Sean Edbert Lim, MBBS
Schmidt, T. (2023). What is the trending 30-30-30 diet method, and does it actually work?. Available from: https://mcpress.mayoclinic.org/nutrition-fitness/what-is-the-30-30-30-diet-and-does-it-work/
Seladi-Schulman, J. (2024). Why Everyone Is Talking About the 30-30-30 Diet for Weight Loss. Available from: https://www.healthline.com/health-news/30-30-30-diet-weight-loss
Southwick, C. (2023). What Is the 30/30/30 Method?. Available from: https://www.health.com/30-30-30-8391851