Most Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Why is salt restricted on the Rice Diet?
A: Your body swells with salt and water. Most of us eat a diet that contains approx. 4,000-7,000(mgs) of sodium. A very small amount - less than 500 mgs. a day - is necessary for normal body function. On the Rice Diet, participants feel better in a matter of days because they get rid of the extra salt and water they are carrying. Salt makes you feel bad and stimulates your appetite.
Q: I have a hard time eating all this food. Do I have to eat all of the portions?
A: Yes, you do, not only because it's apart of the diet but also because you need that nutrition. If you find it difficult to eat it all in one meal then just save a portion or two for a snack or whatever works for you but it's very important to eat exactly as they say.
Q: Is it is dangerous to lose so much weight so quickly? I am afraid if I don't eat enough calories, I won't have for healthy skin, hair, nails, etc
A: People worry about nutritional deficiencies, but we have never seen them in people who are losing weight (because they recycle the protein as the fat cells shrink). People who are eating the Rice Diet at a Body Mass Index of 20 may need further consideration. The short answer is "No"
Q: Can I drink coffee?
A: Your not supposed to as they say that caffeine helps restrict your body's ability to release excess water. You'll find that most ricers still drink their coffee's so it's completely up to you.
Q: Is it okay to use artificial sweeteners?
A: It most certainly is, if you just keep an eye out for hidden sodium you'll find most artificial sweeteners are fine.
Q: Is it okay to do the first day of Phase One(detox) for more than one day?
A: Yes, but no longer than 1 week.
Q: If I cheat, or otherwise wreck my diet, should I start all over the next day?
A: No it isn't necessary, although some people like to do a day of detox before they continue on just to make them feel better about it.
Q: Where can I find low sodium recipes to keep the diet from getting boring?
A: There are all kinds of websites that have low sodium recipes around online plus we have many delicious recipes for you to try in the Rice Way Community Forums.
Q: Is it normal to get a headaches while following the rice diet?
A: When you lower the amount of salt in your diet you are lowering your blood pressure and can therefore feel a little lightheaded, naseous and yes even get the odd headache. It won't last for long, and not all people have those side effects. Just try to get a little extra rest and take it easy until your feeling better.
Q: Is it necessary to workout while on the rice diet or can I just follow the diet to lose the weight?
A: It is highly recommended that you workout while you are following the rice diet to prevent muscle loss. Also you'll only be doing yourself some good, as exercise pumps the metabolism up and burns fat faster.
Q: I was working out and when I stepped onto the scale the next day I noticed that I had gained weight. Why is that?
A: If you are not used to exercising on a regular basis or you decide to step it up a notch (increase the amount of time you exercise) your muscles will retain water but only for a day or two.
