Cabbage Soup Recipe For Weight Loss

Posted on February 22, 2026

Last Updated on February 22, 2026

Cabbage soup recipe for weight loss served in a rustic bowl
Post Disclaimer

Disclaimer: This content is for educational purposes only, not medical advice. Always consult with a doctor before making significant changes to your diet, especially if you have pre-existing health conditions.

SHARE THIS RECIPE WITH YOUR FRIENDS
Cabbage Soup Recipe For Weight Loss 1

The first time I made a cabbage soup recipe for weight loss, I wasn’t chasing a trend. I just needed something warm, simple, and filling after a season of heavy meals. I remember standing in my kitchen, chopping fresh cabbage, onions, and bell peppers, thinking, “This smells clean.” Not fancy. Not complicated. Just honest food.

Hi there, I’m Lora, your friendly kitchen companion and the heart behind Cheflora Recipes. As a home chef, I believe delicious food doesn’t need to be complicated. It needs care, balance, and the right touch. That’s exactly how I approach this soup.

Over time, I tested and refined what I now call the best cabbage soup recipe for weight loss. I kept it flavorful. I kept it satisfying. And most importantly, I kept it realistic for busy families.

If you want something practical, comforting, and supportive for a short reset, you’re in the right place.

KEY TAKEAWAYS: What You Need To Know

  • What it is: A low-calorie, vegetable-based soup built around cabbage and broth.
  • Why it matters: It helps reduce calorie intake while keeping you full.
  • Who it’s for: Adults looking for a short-term weight reset.
  • When to use it: As part of a structured 7-day cabbage soup diet.
  • How it works: High fiber + low calories = better appetite control.

What Is Cabbage Soup Recipe for Weight Loss and Why Does It Matter?

Cabbage soup recipe for weight loss is a vegetable-based, low-calorie soup designed to support short-term fat loss by reducing overall calorie intake. It forms the foundation of the cabbage soup diet, a structured 7-day eating plan focused on fiber-rich vegetables and controlled portions.

What is the cabbage soup recipe for weight loss and how does it work?

At its core, a cabbage soup recipe combines green cabbage, onions, celery, tomatoes, carrots, bell peppers, and vegetable broth. Some versions include herbs, garlic, or light protein. The goal stays simple: create a filling soup with very few calories per serving.

Cabbage contains fiber and water. That combination increases fullness while keeping calories low. According to the U.S. Department of Agriculture, cabbage is naturally low in calories and provides vitamin C and fiber, which support overall health and digestion eat healthy vegetables.

When you follow the cabbage soup diet, you eat mostly this soup along with specific fruits or vegetables on certain days. Because the soup is low in calories, your total daily intake drops. That calorie deficit leads to short-term weight loss.

However, this approach works best as a temporary reset. It does not replace long-term balanced eating habits.

Why is the 7-day cabbage soup diet still popular today?

The 7-day cabbage soup diet mayo clinic searches remain high because people want fast results. Many turn to it after holidays, travel, or periods of overeating. It feels structured. It feels clear. And it removes guesswork.

Here’s why it continues to trend:

  • Simple ingredients – Easy to find at any grocery store
  • Affordable – Budget-friendly compared to specialty meal plans
  • Quick results – Noticeable water weight loss within days
  • Short commitment – Just seven days

I’ve seen readers try complex detox systems, supplements, or unusual tricks like the blue salt trick or the pink salt trick before realizing they simply needed structure and consistency. While those trends come and go, this soup remains steady because it focuses on whole vegetables.

One Cheflora reader, Amanda from Ohio, shared:
“I tried different quick fixes, but Lora’s cabbage soup recipe for weight loss felt doable. I lost 6 pounds in a week, mostly water weight, but it helped me reset my eating.”

That’s the key word. Reset.

The cabbage soup diet does not promise magic. It creates a controlled environment. And when used correctly, it can help you restart healthier habits.

The Original Cabbage Soup Recipe for Weight Loss Explained

The original cabbage soup recipe for weight loss is a simple vegetable soup built around green cabbage, tomatoes, onions, celery, carrots, and broth. It keeps calories low, increases fiber intake, and helps create a short-term calorie deficit that supports quick weight reduction.

What ingredients are in the original cabbage soup recipe for weight loss?

When I first tested the original cabbage soup recipe for weight loss, I kept it as close to the classic 7-day cabbage soup diet version as possible. No unnecessary extras. No complicated techniques. Just clean, simple ingredients that work together.

Here’s the base formula I use at Cheflora Recipes:

Ingredient Purpose
Green cabbage High fiber, low calorie base
Onions Flavor and natural sweetness
Celery Adds crunch and volume
Carrots Mild sweetness and texture
Diced tomatoes Acidity and body
Bell peppers Fresh flavor and nutrients
Vegetable broth Low-calorie cooking liquid
Cabbage Soup Recipe For Weight Loss 2

This combination creates a best cabbage soup recipe for weight loss that feels hearty without being heavy.

Many readers ask whether they can add extras like protein or special ingredients. While variations exist, the classic version keeps calories minimal. If you want added protein, you might consider rotating in options similar to a light gelatin weight loss recipe such as this one gelatin weight loss recipe on non-soup days to support satiety.

How does this recipe support calorie control and detox goals?

Let’s be clear. This soup does not “detox” your body in a medical sense. Your liver and kidneys already handle that process. According to Wikipedia, detox diets often claim to remove toxins, but scientific evidence remains limited for many of those claims Detoxification_(alternative_medicine).

So why do people feel lighter?

Because this cabbage soup recipe for weight loss and detox removes processed foods, excess sodium, added sugars, and high-calorie snacks. That shift alone reduces bloating and water retention.

Here’s how it supports short-term weight loss:

  • High volume, low calories – You eat more food with fewer calories
  • High fiber – Helps you feel full longer
  • Simple structure – Reduces decision fatigue
  • Lower sodium (if controlled) – Decreases water retention

I’ve tested many trending ideas over the years, from the baking soda trick to different salt variations like the blue salt trick and pink salt trick. But nothing compares to simply eating whole vegetables consistently for a week.

One reader shared:
“I followed Lora’s cabbage soup recipe for weight loss and stopped snacking at night. That alone made a difference.”

That’s the power of structure.

How to Make the Best Cabbage Soup Recipe for Weight Loss at Home

Cabbage soup recipe for weight loss is easy to prepare at home with simple vegetables, broth, and basic seasonings. You chop, simmer, and cook everything in one large pot. The process takes about 45 minutes and creates multiple servings for the 7-day cabbage soup diet.

Step-by-step guide: How to prepare cabbage soup for weight loss?

When I make this in my kitchen at Cheflora Recipes, I focus on flavor first. Even during a reset week, food should taste good. That’s part of sustainable cooking.

Here’s my tested method for the best cabbage soup recipe for weight loss:

Ingredients

  • 1 large head green cabbage, chopped
  • 1 large onion, diced
  • 2 carrots, sliced
  • 2 celery stalks, chopped
  • 1–2 bell peppers, chopped
  • 1 can diced tomatoes (no added sugar)
  • 6 cups low-sodium vegetable broth
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 teaspoon dried oregano
  • 1 teaspoon dried basil
  • Salt and black pepper to taste

Instructions

  1. Heat a large stockpot over medium heat.
  2. Add a splash of broth and sauté onions, garlic, carrots, and celery for 5 minutes.
  3. Stir in cabbage and bell peppers. Cook for another 3–4 minutes.
  4. Add diced tomatoes, remaining broth, and herbs.
  5. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 25–30 minutes.
  6. Adjust seasoning. Serve warm.

That’s it. Simple. Practical. Reliable.

The soup stores well for 4–5 days in the refrigerator. Many readers batch cook on Sunday and portion it for the week.

If you enjoy simple structured eating plans, you may also like my gelatin trick recipe gelatin trick recipe or the bariatric gelatin recipe bariatric gelatin recipe for additional low-calorie support options during structured weeks.

Crockpot cabbage soup recipe for weight loss: Is it better?

A crockpot cabbage soup recipe for weight loss works beautifully for busy schedules. It saves time and keeps flavors rich.

Here’s how I adapt it:

  • Add all ingredients directly to the slow cooker.
  • Cook on low for 6–7 hours or high for 3–4 hours.
  • Stir once or twice if possible.

The result tastes slightly sweeter because slow cooking brings out the natural sugars in carrots and onions.

Busy parents often tell me the crockpot version helps them stay consistent. One Cheflora reader, Jessica from Texas, said:
“The slow cooker version made it effortless. I stuck to the cabbage soup diet for the full 7 days because dinner was already done.”

Consistency matters more than perfection.

Variations – From Classic Detox to Hearty Options

Cabbage soup recipe for weight loss can be adjusted to match your needs. You can keep it strictly vegetable-based for a 7-day cabbage soup diet, or you can add lean protein for a more balanced long-term version. The key is controlling calories while keeping it satisfying.

Cabbage soup recipe with ground beef: Can you add protein?

Many readers ask about a cabbage soup recipe with ground beef. The answer is yes, but timing matters.

If you are following the traditional cabbage soup diet, stick to the classic vegetable version during the structured 7 days. However, if you want to transition into a sustainable plan, adding lean protein helps maintain muscle and improve fullness.

Here’s how I modify it responsibly:

  • Use 93% lean ground beef or lean ground turkey
  • Brown ½ pound separately
  • Drain excess fat
  • Stir into the soup during the final 10 minutes of cooking

This creates a more balanced meal while still keeping calories moderate.

Protein improves satiety. That makes it easier to avoid late-night snacking. Some readers pair structured soup weeks with simple strategies like the honey trick for memory loss honey trick recipe for memory loss or even the canaan honey trick canaan honey trick as part of broader wellness routines. While trends vary, consistency with whole foods always delivers steadier results.

One Cheflora reader shared:
“Adding lean turkey made the cabbage soup recipe for weight loss feel like real dinner, not diet food.”

That’s the goal. Practical. Real. Sustainable.

Cabbage soup recipe for weight loss and detox: How to adjust ingredients safely?

The phrase cabbage soup recipe for weight loss and detox often appears in searches. Let’s clarify what that means.

This soup supports digestion because it removes processed foods and increases fiber. It does not perform a medical detox. Your body already handles that function naturally.

If you want to adjust ingredients while staying aligned with the plan:

  • Add zucchini for more volume
  • Add spinach in the final 5 minutes
  • Increase garlic for flavor
  • Use low-sodium broth to reduce water retention

Avoid these common mistakes:

  • Adding too much salt
  • Using high-fat broth
  • Adding potatoes or rice during the 7-day phase
  • Overcooking until vegetables lose texture

I always remind readers that simple works best. I’ve tested many popular shortcuts over the years, from the horse salt trick for men to different salt variations, and I always return to balanced vegetable-based meals.

If you need additional structured options during a reset week, you may find support from recipes like the dr mark hyman gelatin recipe dr mark hyman gelatin recipe, which focuses on low-calorie simplicity as well.

Cabbage soup recipe for weight loss served in a rustic bowl

Cabbage Soup Recipe for Weight Loss

This cabbage soup recipe for weight loss is a simple, low-calorie vegetable soup designed for a short-term 7-day reset. Made with green cabbage, carrots, celery, tomatoes, bell peppers, and low-sodium vegetable broth, it’s filling, fiber-rich, and easy to batch cook for structured meal planning.
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 30 minutes
Total Time 45 minutes
Servings: 6 servings
Course: Soup
Cuisine: American
Calories: 95

Ingredients
  

  • 1 large green cabbage, chopped
  • 1 large onion, diced
  • 2 carrots, sliced
  • 2 stalks celery, chopped
  • 1-2 bell peppers, chopped
  • 1 can diced tomatoes (no added sugar)
  • 6 cups low-sodium vegetable broth
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 teaspoon dried oregano
  • 1 teaspoon dried basil
  • salt and black pepper to taste

Equipment

  • large stockpot
  • Cutting board
  • Chef's knife
  • wooden spoon
  • measuring cups and spoons

Method
 

  1. Heat a large stockpot over medium heat.
  2. Add a splash of broth and sauté onions, garlic, carrots, and celery for 5 minutes.
  3. Stir in cabbage and bell peppers. Cook for another 3–4 minutes.
  4. Add diced tomatoes, remaining broth, oregano, and basil.
  5. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 25–30 minutes.
  6. Adjust seasoning with salt and black pepper. Serve warm.

Nutrition

Calories: 95kcalCarbohydrates: 20gProtein: 4gFat: 1gSaturated Fat: 0.2gPolyunsaturated Fat: 0.3gMonounsaturated Fat: 0.2gSodium: 380mgPotassium: 520mgFiber: 6gSugar: 9gVitamin A: 5200IUVitamin C: 65mgCalcium: 90mgIron: 1.5mg

Notes

Use low-sodium vegetable broth to reduce water retention. Do not overcook the vegetables to maintain texture. Limit the structured plan to 7 days and transition gradually to balanced meals with lean protein and whole grains. Store in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. Avoid adding high-fat ingredients during the reset phase.

Tried this recipe?

Mention @Cheflorarecipes or tag #cheflorarecipes!

Does the Cabbage Soup Diet Really Help You Lose Weight?

Cabbage soup recipe for weight loss can help you lose weight in the short term because it significantly reduces daily calorie intake. Most people lose water weight first, followed by some fat loss, during the structured 7-day cabbage soup diet.

How much weight can you lose in 7 days on the cabbage soup diet?

Many people report losing between 5 to 10 pounds in 7 days on the cabbage soup diet. However, most of that early loss comes from:

  • Reduced carbohydrate intake
  • Lower sodium intake
  • Decreased water retention
  • Overall calorie deficit

When you reduce calories sharply, your body uses stored glycogen for energy. Glycogen holds water. As glycogen decreases, water weight drops quickly. That explains the noticeable change in the first few days.

However, realistic fat loss in one week usually ranges between 1–2 pounds for most adults. Anything beyond that is primarily water weight.

As a home chef and recipe developer, I always emphasize balance. I created this best cabbage soup recipe for weight loss to support a short reset, not as a permanent lifestyle. After 7 days, you should gradually return to balanced meals with protein, healthy fats, and complex carbohydrates.

What does science and the Mayo Clinic say about the 7-day cabbage soup diet?

Searches for 7-day cabbage soup diet mayo clinic are common. While the Mayo Clinic does not officially endorse the traditional cabbage soup diet plan, it consistently promotes sustainable calorie reduction, balanced nutrition, and long-term habit changes instead of extreme short-term dieting.

The reason is simple: very low-calorie diets are difficult to maintain. When people return to old habits, weight often returns.

So does the cabbage soup diet work?

Yes — for short-term scale reduction.
No — as a permanent standalone solution.

The key benefits include:

  • Structure
  • Reduced processed food intake
  • Increased vegetable consumption
  • Short-term motivation boost

The limitations include:

  • Low protein intake
  • Limited healthy fats
  • Possible nutrient gaps if extended beyond 7 days

One Cheflora reader, Melissa from Arizona, shared:
“I lost 7 pounds in a week with Lora’s cabbage soup recipe for weight loss. I knew it wasn’t all fat, but it helped me feel in control again.”

That feeling of control often becomes the real turning point.

If you use this soup as a reset, plan your transition. Add lean protein. Reintroduce whole grains slowly. Keep vegetables as your foundation.

Common Mistakes and Expert Tips for Better Results

Cabbage soup recipe for weight loss works best when you prepare it correctly and follow the 7-day cabbage soup diet safely. Many people reduce calories too aggressively, add hidden high-calorie ingredients, or extend the plan too long. Small mistakes can limit results or cause fatigue.

What are common mistakes when making cabbage soup?

After years of testing this cabbage soup recipe, I’ve seen the same issues repeat. Let’s fix them.

Here are the most common mistakes:

  • Adding too much salt
    Excess sodium increases water retention and bloating. Always choose low-sodium broth.
  • Using high-fat broth or oils
    The goal is low calorie density. Keep added fats minimal during the 7-day phase.
  • Overcooking the vegetables
    Mushy cabbage loses texture and appeal. Simmer gently and avoid boiling too long.
  • Not seasoning properly
    Bland soup leads to cravings. Use herbs like oregano, basil, thyme, garlic, and black pepper.
  • Skipping water intake
    Hydration supports digestion and helps manage hunger.
  • Expecting permanent weight loss in 7 days
    This plan creates a short-term reset, not a lifelong solution.

When I developed this best cabbage soup recipe for weight loss, I focused on flavor. If food feels like punishment, you won’t stick to it. Cooking should feel grounding, even during a reset week.

One Cheflora reader shared:
“I almost quit because my first batch tasted flat. After following Lora’s seasoning tips, it became something I actually enjoyed.”

That matters more than people think.

Who should avoid the cabbage soup diet and when to use it safely?

The cabbage soup diet is not ideal for everyone.

You should avoid it if you:

  • Have diabetes or blood sugar instability
  • Are pregnant or breastfeeding
  • Have a history of eating disorders
  • Need high protein intake for medical reasons
  • Are underweight

Because this plan is low in protein and fats, it works best as a short-term structured reset for generally healthy adults.

Use it safely by:

  • Limiting it to 7 days
  • Drinking plenty of water
  • Listening to your body
  • Transitioning gradually back to balanced meals

I always remind my readers at Cheflora Recipes that structure builds momentum. But sustainability builds lasting change.

Cabbage Soup Recipe For Weight Loss 3

Frequently Asked Questions

How much weight can you lose in 7 days on the cabbage soup diet?

Most people lose 5–10 pounds in 7 days. However, much of that is water weight due to lower carbohydrate and sodium intake. Realistic fat loss typically ranges from 1–2 pounds.

How to prepare cabbage soup for weight loss?

Chop cabbage, onions, carrots, celery, and bell peppers. Simmer with diced tomatoes and low-sodium vegetable broth for 25–30 minutes. Season with herbs and minimal salt. Store portions for the week.

What are common mistakes when making cabbage soup?

Using too much salt, overcooking vegetables, adding high-fat ingredients, and expecting permanent results in one week are common mistakes.

Does the cabbage soup diet really help you lose weight?

Yes, it can support short-term weight loss by creating a calorie deficit. However, it is not a long-term solution. Sustainable results require balanced eating after the 7-day plan.

Final Thoughts – Is This the Best Cabbage Soup Recipe for Weight Loss for You?

Cabbage soup recipe for weight loss is a short-term, low-calorie vegetable plan designed to help adults reset eating habits and reduce water weight quickly. It works best for healthy individuals who want structure, simplicity, and a clear 7-day plan before transitioning to balanced meals.

Who benefits most from this plan?

This best cabbage soup recipe for weight loss works well for:

  • Adults needing a structured reset after holidays
  • Individuals who struggle with portion control
  • People who want to increase vegetable intake
  • Anyone looking to break processed food habits

It works because it removes guesswork. You cook once. You portion. You follow the structure. That simplicity builds momentum.

At Cheflora Recipes, I focus on realistic cooking. I’m Lora, your friendly kitchen companion, and I believe food should support your life, not complicate it. This recipe reflects that belief. It’s not fancy. It’s not extreme. It’s practical.

One reader, Danielle from Florida, told me:
“This cabbage soup recipe for weight loss helped me stop emotional snacking. It gave me structure when I needed it most.”

That’s powerful.

How to transition after the 7-day cabbage soup diet for lasting results

The most important step comes after day seven.

Here’s how to transition wisely:

  1. Add lean protein like chicken, fish, eggs, or beans.
  2. Introduce whole grains gradually.
  3. Keep vegetables as the base of every meal.
  4. Maintain hydration.
  5. Avoid jumping back into processed snacks.

Think of the cabbage soup diet as a starting line, not the finish line.

Author

  • chef lora

    Hi! I’m Lora, a 36-year-old mom from Oregon and the creator of cheflorarecipes.com. I started cooking out of necessity, juggling kids, work, and the never-ending question: what’s for dinner? Over time, I learned how to create quick, simple meals that fit into real, messy, beautiful life. My site is here to help beginners and busy moms like you make delicious, no-fuss meals with everyday ingredients. No fancy skills needed, just a little inspiration and a lot of grace. From one busy mom to another, I’ve got your back in the kitchen. Let’s make cooking a little easier, together.

Tags:

You might also like these recipes

Leave a Comment

Recipe Rating