Can you really lose 21 pounds in 21 days?

Comedian Steve Harvey said he’s trying to lose 21 pounds in 21 days on the Martha’s Vineyard Detox Diet. What is this plan and is it even safe?

Actor and comedian Steve Harvey sparked the curiosities of many dieters after telling listeners of his radio show that he’s out to lose 21 pounds in 21 days on the Martha’s Vineyard Diet Detox.

21 pounds in 21 days? That’s what authors of the New York Times Best Selling book are claiming. The book, written by Dr. Roni Luz and former record executive James Hester. Dr. Luz started the Martha’s Vineyard Holistic Retreat to help people “detox” from a bad diet for upwards of $495 a night. Ouch!

Martha’s Vineyard Diet Detox

The book is available as an at-home method for those not able to pay the expensive retreat price. The book’s idea is to rid the body of the “harmful” effects of everyday foods, beverages and environmental factors by following one of three detox plans that include eating certain foods and drinking special Martha’s Vineyard Diet Detox juices.

Harvey is friends with Dr. Luz and is on the diet under her direction. Dr. Luz claims that other celebs like Gwyneth Paltrow, Gisele Bunchen and Madonna are fans of the diet, though we’re not sure they actually have 21 pounds to lose in 21 days.

Is It Safe?

Though Dr. Luz is a trained medical professional, other doctors and diet experts are discounting the 21 pounds in 21 days claim, saying the Martha’s Vineyard Diet Detox is unsafe.

Nutritionists are quick to point out that the Lose 21 Pounds in 21 Days plan is lacking in essential protein, fat, and fiber, which could be dangerous.

“Diet plans deficient in protein can lead to muscle wasting, and when you don’t ingest enough essential fatty acids from fat, you also risk compromising your immune function,” says nutrition and fitness expert Pamela Peeke, MD.

WebMD expert and registered dietician Kathleen M. Zelman can also bring on headaches from caffeine withdrawal.

“This plan makes it almost impossible to go out to eat, unless you take along your drink. Be prepared to give up coffee, which experts point out can result in headaches,” she said. “Alcohol is also on the extensive list of foods and beverages to avoid until the maintenance stage, and even then it is very limited.”

Clever Marketing Ploy

Sure, the book’s authors say it’s cheap and easy to follow — but that’s just for the book. You have to purchase several special juices and other materials from the Martha’s Vineyard Diet Detox in order to successfully pursue the diet. The 21-day Diet and Detox Pack for sale on the official website will set you back $213.95, just for three weeks of product!

A better option is to follow a healthy, low-fat diet and exercise regularly. Sure, you won’t lose 21 pounds in 21 days, but you will keep your sanity — and your wallet — intact.

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