Use of VLCDs in patients with a BMI of 27 to 30 should be reserved for those who have medical conditions due to overweight, such as high blood pressure. In fact, all candidates for VLCD undergo a thorough examination by their doctor to make sure the diet will not worsen preexisting medical conditions. Lastly, these diets are not appropriate for children or adolescents, except in specialized treatment programs.
The formulas which are prepared are usually liquid shakes or bars and replaces all foods intake for several weeks or months. VLCD formulas need to contain appropriate levels of vitamins and micronutrients to ensure that patients meet their nutritional requirements. HCG is an exception to this as it is taken by drops or injection and is a different type of formulation which should be taken with a doctors approval.
Some doctors also prescribe VLCDs made up almost entirely of lean protein foods, such as fish and chicken. People on a VLCD consume about 800 calories per day or less. VLCD formulas are not the same as the meal replacement which you can find at grocery stores or pharmacies, which are meant as substitute for one or two meals a day.
Very low-calorie diets may produce significant short-term weight loss in patients who are moderately or extremely obese when used under proper medical supervision. VLCDs should be part of comprehensive weight-loss treatment programs that include behavioral therapy, nutrition counseling, physical activity, and/or drug treatment.
A very low-calorie diet may allow a patient who is moderately to extremely obese to lose about 3 to 5 pounds per week. Such a weight loss can help to improve obesity -related medical conditions.
The rapid weight loss experience by most people on VLCD can be very motivating to them to succeed in losing weight. Some patients report minor side effects as constipation, fatigue, nausea or diarrhea but conditions usually improve within a few weeks and rarely prevents the patients from continuing with their diet.
Studies show that the long term results of very low-calorie diets vary but regaining weight is common. For most people who are obese their condition is long-term and requires a lifetime commitment and doctors should encourage their patients who are obese to commit to permanent changes of healthier eating, regular physical activity and an improved outlook about food.
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