An ultra low calorie diet, also known as a very low calorie diet, or VLCD, is a diet designed to promote rapid weight loss in obese patients, according to the Weight-control Information Network. The diet generally involves consuming commercially prepared formulas such as bars or liquid shakes to replace all food for weeks to months. Because a VLCD can be harmful if it isn't followed properly, get advice from your doctor if you think it is right for you.
Candidates
Since a VLCD involves making dramatic drops in caloric intake, it isn't a safe diet for anyone looking to drop just a few pounds. A VLCD is typically designed to be part of a doctor-supervised weight loss program for severely or morbidly obese adults --- with a body mass index, or BMI, of at least 30 --- according to Health Services at Columbia University. A person may be a candidate for a VLCD if she has a BMI of 27 and 30 as well as a weight-related health problem such as high blood pressure, but the doctor will perform a full examine to ensure that the diet won't make any pre-existing condition worse, according to the Weight-control Information Network.
Function
A VLCD tends to limit caloric intake to around 800 or fewer calories per day. Eating under 1,000 calories per day typically sends the body into total starvation mode within five days, causing a dieter's appetite to diminish or disappear completely, according to the UCLA Health System. The overseeing dietitian or doctor will generally offer methods of helping the patient cope until that happens.
Benefits
A person who is moderately to extremely obese may lose 3 to 5 lbs. per week and drop an average of 44 lbs. over 3 months on a VLCD, according to the Weight-control Information Network. This dramatic weight loss can quickly improve weight-related problems such as high blood pressure, high cholesterol and diabetes, according to the Weight-control Information Network. It can also motivate a patient to continue making lifestyle choices that contribute to weight loss.
Risks
A patient on a 1- to 4-month VLCD may experience minor side effects such as diarrhea, constipation, nausea and fatigue, but the side effects usually diminish in the early weeks, according to the Weight-control Information Network. A potential serious side effect is gallstones, particularly in women, but some medications may help prevent that from happening in people who are at greater risk. A VLCD can have more serious side effects if it isn't carried out under guidance of a professional. If carried out improperly, it may lead to long-term conditions such as anemia, bone loss, infertility, reduced immunity, decreased thyroid function, poor concentration and poor dental health, according to Health Services at Columbia University.
Maintenance
Weight regain is common after a VLCD. However, the diet may be more successful in the long-term if it is combined with physical activity, behavior therapy and an active follow-up treatment, according to the Weight-control Information Network. In most cases, obesity is a long-term problem that requires lifelong attention and permanent changes rather than merely a temporary formal treatment.
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