What Supplements Should You Take on a Very Low-Calorie Diet?

What Supplements Should You Take on a Very Low-Calorie Diet?
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Experts typically warn dieters about consuming less than 1,000 calories daily; however, a very low calorie diet is sometimes recommended. In cases where obesity-related health problems exist, the Weight-Control Information Network reports that a very low-calorie diet may help promote rapid weight loss and reduce health complications. Talk to a doctor before attempting to cut calories on your own, and find out which supplements you should use to complement your diet plan.

Multivitamins

Multivitamins offer basic nutritional support to help fill in nutritional gaps. Although most of your nutritional value should come from healthy foods, multivitamins help boost nutrition by supplying vitamins A, C, E, the B vitamins, minerals and iron. According to Drugs.com, users should never take more than the recommended dose of multivitamins and minerals and must refrain from combining products, which can lead to an overdose or severe side effects.

Calcium

Calcium supplements help very low-calorie dieters in two ways: by increasing weight loss and supporting bone health. Calcium is an essential mineral that is often used to treat and prevent bone loss and premenstrual symptoms as well as to reduce the risk of colon and rectal cancers. In addition, MedlinePlus reports that calcium is possibly effective at reducing weight and body fat while dieting. Calcium supplements are generally safe, although belching and gas may occur. Talk to your doctor about using calcium supplements in combination with a very low-calorie diet.

Green Tea Supplements

Green tea is touted for its antioxidant activity, which helps support health by counteracting the damage done by free radicals--molecules that affect the immune system. Green tea supplements, made from green tea extracts, are often used to increase metal alertness, reduce cholesterol, protect the skin and aid in weight loss, according to the National Center for Complementary and Alternative Medicine. Green tea is safe for most adults; however, the caffeine content may cause insomnia, anxiety, nausea, diarrhea, or frequent urination in some people. Talk to your doctor before using green tea supplements in conjunction with your very low-calorie diet.

References

Article reviewed by Ellen Parson Last updated on: Dec 16, 2010

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