What Is 2-2-2 Method? The Viral Weight Loss Trend Everyone Is Talking About

In the changing world of sensationalising before-and-after pictures and compelling transformation testimonials, the internet is filled with a lot of quick, easy weight loss strategies. From fancy diet plans and workout schedules to various fitness routines, let’s dive into the world of another weight-loss trend, i.e., the 2-2-2 method.

Believed to be effective for one’s metabolism, the 2-2-2 weight-loss strategy includes various techniques like keto, intermittent fasting, carbohydrate loading, and HIIT workouts, among others.

According to the New York Post, the 2-2-2 method simply involves drinking two big bottles of water, eating two servings each of fruits and vegetables, and taking two walks along with a regular routine.

Jenna Rizzo, a Georgia-based health coach, said that the new viral method does not come with any quantity of water, fruit or vegetables, as water intake will depend on activity level, weather and overall health. She also explained that the two servings of fruits and vegetables help supplement one’s eating plan.

“And if you have time to exercise on top of that and want to go for it, these will simply be our daily minimum requirements. Your skin’s going to be clear, you’re going to have more energy, you’re going to be sleeping better, and you’ll probably already be down a few pounds,” she added.

More About The 2-2-2 Method

Originally created by Ian K. Smith, MD and author of The Met Flex Diet: Burn Better Fuel, Burn More Fat, the 2-2-2 method is described as a version of the Met Flex Diet weight loss program. According to Dr. Smith, the three ‘2s’ represent different types of meals (fatty and carb-heavy), two non-food-related aspects (weekly weigh-ins and introspective journaling), and two types of exercises (bodyweight and/or HIIT workouts).

Speaking to Women’s Health, Smith said that the method increases the body’s metabolic flexibility to successfully burn both fats and carbs, further inducing weight loss. Going by the method, the first week in the six-week plan involves 14:10 intermittent fasting and 5:2 intermittent fasting in the second week. The final four weeks will have one alternating between carb-loading and high-fat keto meals, says Dr. Smith.