Explainer | Did Adele lose weight by doing the Sirtfood diet and does it work? British singer has shed 45kg
- The singer credits weightlifting and circuit training for helping her get stronger – but rumours persist it was the Sirtfood diet that helped her lose weight
- Experts weigh in on a diet that is ‘designed to supercharge your metabolism’ by emphasising foods high in a micronutrient that switches on your ‘skinny genes’
Singing sensation Adele released her album 30 on November 19, her first in six years, winning over critics and fans alike. In it, she tackles her divorce and discusses motherhood – and the ever present scrutiny of fame.
We asked nutrition experts to weigh in on the radical diet, whose creators say it is “designed to supercharge your metabolism”. Here is what you need to know if you want to try it yourself.
What is the Sirtfood diet?
Nutritionists Aidan Goggins and Glen Matten, who co-authored The Sirtfood Diet, say the way of eating activates a family of proteins called sirtuins, or “skinny genes”. This, in turn, supposedly mimics the effects of exercise and fasting.
“Sirtfoods are foods high in [a micronutrient called] polyphenols, which are found in some plant foods,” explains Rachel Li, a nutritionist at Pure Nutrition in Hong Kong.
“There has been emerging research in animals and humans that sirtuins may play a role in longevity and disease management. Polyphenols can activate the sirtuin pathway. So it is proposed that eating a diet rich in polyphenols, or sirtfoods, will supercharge fat loss, health and longevity.”
What are the Sirtfoods?
What else should you eat while on a Sirtfood diet?
Sirtfoods should be accompanied with protein for a meal. The book’s authors recommend oily fish, and not to focus on what foods to cut out. The key is not to overload on processed and sugary food, or fish that are deemed to be high in mercury.
Is it a safe/healthy diet to try?
The plan pushes people towards certain foods without focusing on items that should be excluded from your plate. Those who try it should be sensible about what they eat, especially if they are physically active.
Li agrees the diet is too low in energy for most people, especially those with an active lifestyle and/or workout programme, but it had its pluses too.
The book’s authors suggest all meals should be consumed by 7pm.
What are the Sirtfood diet’s main benefits?
The list of foods includes items that often appear on most healthy food lists, which is the diet’s biggest selling point.
Lau agrees: “Foods recommended for this diet are high in healthy compounds such as vitamins, minerals and phytonutrients, which have antioxidant and anti-inflammatory effects, helping to reduce the risk of many chronic illnesses and ailments associated with ageing.”