January 31, 2024

What is the SIRT diet and how it works

By Naturale Bio

The SIRT diet was created by two nutritionists and biologists from the United Kingdom, Aidan Goggins and Glen Matten. It is based onsirtuins, protein compounds with enzymatic activity, contained in some specific foods, which the body uses in a positive way. Sirtuins integrate with the metabolism and even with the genetic memory of the body, which is why it is also called the "lean gene diet".

SIRT, therefore, favors the intake of these bioactive and functional substances, contained in some foods (about twenty have been mapped), often combined with antioxidants, but not only.

It is a very aggressive diet, at least in its initial phase, which involves introducing around 1000 calories for 3 days, and then continuing for another 12 days at around 1500 calories, for a total of 15 days of highly low-calorie "shock" treatment. It must therefore be carefully evaluated and agreed only in cases of real necessity and with an expert nutritionist.

What foods to eat during the SIRT diet

In the first 3 days it is expected that you eat 4 daily meals, of which 3 are liquids - mainly vegetable juices - and only one solid.

Subsequently, for another 4 days, meals become 2 liquids and 2 solids. In the last week of treatment we switch to 5 total meals, 3 solids and 2 liquids.

Being the sirtuins of proteins, it is essentially a protein diet. Light animal proteins such as chicken and eggs are recommended, accompanied by good quantities of fresh vegetables such as celery, rocket and cabbage. Very few condiments, basically only olive oil, spices such as turmeric and chilli are ok. Among the drinks, green light for green tea rich in antioxidants.

Among cereals, only buckwheat is allowed. No sugar or indulgences, except half a glass of red wine rich in polyphenols, every now and then. A truly limited variety of foods, therefore.

Pros and cons of this diet

The premise is that there are still no certain scientific studies on the healthiness of this diet: be careful, therefore, it is truly low-calorie and could generate imbalances and even serious problems.

As always, NO to do-it-yourself, yes to discussion with a specialist who will evaluate the general clinical picture and the real need for weight loss.

In fact, a yo-yo effect, lack of fundamental nutrients and also highly negative psychological dynamics can be generated, which can lead to eating disorders.

An active lifestyle, with a tasty, varied and balanced diet, lots of sport and fun, is always the best way to live healthily!

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