Have you ever wondered if something as simple as cabbage soup can help you shed weight?
It sounds too good to be true, right? One pot, a few veggies, some herbs—and suddenly you’re losing inches? But thousands of people have turned to the now-famous cabbage soup recipe for weight loss as a natural, budget-friendly way to burn fat, especially over a 7-day period.
So, does it work? Let’s dig into the science, the recipe, and why vegetarian, fruit-based, and drink-style weight loss recipes—including cabbage soup—are gaining popularity again in 2025.
Why People Are Turning to Cabbage Soup for Weight Loss
Weight loss doesn’t have to be complicated. That’s why the cabbage soup diet remains one of the most searched natural methods, especially for people looking for a reset or quick start. Here’s what makes this soup so effective:
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Low in calories: One large bowl is often under 100 calories
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High in fiber: Keeps you full and supports digestion
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Vegetarian-friendly: Great for plant-based eaters
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Hydrating and nutrient-dense: Helps reduce water retention
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Budget-friendly: Ingredients are affordable and accessible
According to EatingWell (2024) and clinical dietitians referenced in Nutrition & Wellness Digest (2025), structured soup plans—like cabbage soup for 7 days—can help people drop 4–10 pounds safely when used for a limited time and with adequate hydration.
The Classic Cabbage Soup Recipe for Weight Loss
This recipe is a modified version of the classic 7-Day Wonder Soup, but updated to match 2025 dietary insights. It’s vegan, gluten-free, and incredibly easy to prepare.
Ingredients:
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1 small head of green cabbage, chopped
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2 large carrots, sliced
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1 green bell pepper, diced
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1 red bell pepper, diced
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3 celery stalks, chopped
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1 large onion, chopped
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3 cloves garlic, minced
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1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes (no salt added)
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6 cups vegetable broth (low sodium)
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1 tablespoon olive oil
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1 teaspoon ground turmeric
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1/2 teaspoon black pepper
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1/2 teaspoon paprika
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1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar (optional, for metabolism support)
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Fresh parsley or lemon juice to finish
Instructions:
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In a large soup pot, heat olive oil over medium heat.
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Add garlic and onion; sauté for 3–4 minutes.
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Add carrots, celery, bell peppers, cabbage; cook for 5 minutes.
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Add diced tomatoes and broth. Bring to a boil.
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Lower heat; add spices and ACV. Simmer for 30–35 minutes.
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Serve hot. Garnish with parsley or a splash of lemon juice.
Serving Tip:
Eat 1–2 bowls per day as a meal replacement, especially for lunch or dinner. Combine with fruit or a light protein snack (boiled egg, Greek yogurt) for balance.
Nutritional Benefits Beyond Weight Loss
While weight loss might be your first goal, this cabbage soup offers more than just calorie-cutting:
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Detox support: Cruciferous vegetables like cabbage support liver detox pathways.
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Digestive health: High-fiber veggies like celery and cabbage help prevent bloating.
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Anti-inflammatory: Turmeric, garlic, and ACV all help reduce internal inflammation, often linked to stubborn fat.
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Hydration: Most people mistake thirst for hunger. This soup boosts hydration naturally.
What About Apple Cider Vinegar, Fruits, or Vegetarian Diets?
Adding apple cider vinegar (ACV) to your soup or drinking it diluted before meals may help reduce insulin spikes and curb appetite, according to American Journal of Clinical Nutrition (2025).
Want to complement your soup plan with other healthy weight loss recipes?
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Fruits for Weight Loss: Snack on high-fiber fruits like berries, apples, and pears to stay full.
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Drink Weight Loss Recipes: Try green smoothies with spinach, lemon, and cucumber for hydration and cleansing.
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Vegetarian Weight Loss Recipes: Lentil stews, roasted vegetables with olive oil, or quinoa bowls work well alongside soup days.
The cabbage soup recipe fits seamlessly into all three categories, making it one of the most adaptable weight loss meals available.
Tips to Make the Most of the Cabbage Soup Diet
If you plan to follow a short-term soup diet, here’s how to stay on track:
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Limit to 7 days max
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Stay hydrated with at least 2 liters of water daily
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Add fruit in the morning and light protein in the evening
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Avoid processed snacks or sugary drinks during the plan
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Ease out gradually—don’t jump into heavy meals afterward
Frequently Asked Questions About Cabbage Soup for Weight Loss
1. Will cabbage soup help you lose weight?
Yes, especially when eaten in place of high-calorie meals. Because cabbage soup is low in calories and high in volume, it helps you feel full while reducing total calorie intake, often leading to weight loss over a few days.
2. How much weight can I lose with cabbage soup in a week?
On average, people lose between 4 to 10 pounds in a week, depending on activity level and adherence. This includes water weight and, in some cases, fat reduction.
3. Can I eat fruits or snacks during the cabbage soup diet?
Yes. Incorporating one or two servings of low-sugar fruits (like berries or apples) and light snacks like boiled eggs or raw nuts can improve nutrient intake and prevent energy dips.
4. Is the cabbage soup diet safe?
Short-term use (3 to 7 days) is generally safe for healthy adults. However, it is not recommended for long-term use due to limited protein and essential fats. Always consult a healthcare provider if unsure.
5. Can I add apple cider vinegar to cabbage soup?
Yes, and it’s highly recommended. ACV can support digestion and blood sugar balance. Just 1 tablespoon per pot can offer health benefits without altering the taste much.
6. How should I transition after completing the cabbage soup week?
Start adding healthy proteins (like grilled chicken, legumes, tofu) and whole grains (like quinoa or oats) back into your meals gradually. Avoid jumping back into processed or fried foods.
Is Cabbage Soup the Magic Fix?
Cabbage soup isn’t a miracle—but it is a powerful, natural tool to jumpstart weight loss, clean up your diet, and feel lighter in just a few days.
When paired with smart habits like hydration, whole foods, and light movement, this simple recipe can support a major health transformation—without extreme restriction or expensive supplements.
Start with one pot. Use it for dinner tonight. Track how you feel in 3 days.
Weight loss doesn’t have to be complicated—just consistent.