A very low calorie diet, or VLCD, is often used under medical supervision to help people who suffer from obesity lose weight more rapidly than the recommended weight loss of one to two pounds per week. Usually, people consuming a VLCD eat less than 800 calories each day. The structure of a VLCD is extremely strict and may include liquid shakes and bars, which are nutrient dense, to ensure that the dieter is still getting his recommended levels of vitamins and minerals.
Candidates for a VLCD
A very low calorie diet is not recommended for everyone. A VLCD is reserved for those with a body mass index, or BMI, of greater than 30, which is considered obese. To put it into perspective, if you are at a healthy body weight, you have a BMI of 18.5 to 24.9. VLCDs can be dangerous for those who are pregnant or breastfeeding; children, teens and those over 50 years of age; or those with some preexisting medical conditions. Before a VLCD is prescribed, each patient is evaluated on a case-by-case basis to determine if a VLCD is a safe option for weight loss.
Side Effects of a VLCD
Patients who are following VLCDs often complain of fatigue, constipation, nausea and diarrhea. A VLCD can also increase the risk of experiencing more serious side effects. The most common serious side effect is the formation of gallstones, which are more common in women who are experiencing rapid weight loss. When adolescents or children consume a VLCD, their growth and development may be in jeopardy. It is extremely important that those who attempt a VLCD to lose weight are under the care of a medical professional in case any side effects present themselves.
VLCD Long-Term Success
A VLCD may allow a dieter to lose three to five pounds per week. Positive results can improve some medical conditions, such as diabetes, high blood pressure and high cholesterol. However, many dieters who have completed a VLCD end up experiencing weight regain. If you attempt a VLCD, use the counsel of medical professionals to work on changing your eating and lifestyle behaviors permanently. Behavior therapy, regular physical activity and follow-up treatment are strongly recommended after a VLCD is completed to improve the odds of long-term success.
Beware of VLCD Fad Diets
Many fad diets on the market today, such as the grapefruit diet, promote a drastically reduced caloric intake. With many of these diets, the most common cause of weight loss is the reduction of water weight, which is immediately regained after the diet is over. Many of these diets also have strict eating plans that many times eliminate entire food groups from being consumed. A dieter attempting a VLCD may be severely restricting some or most of the essential nutrients needed to maintain good health.
References
- Weight-Control Information Network: Very Low-Calorie Diets
- TeensHealth; 5 Ways to Spot a Fad Diet; Mary L. Gavin, MD; May 2010
- National Diabetes Education Program: Tips for Teens With Diabetes --- Stay at a Healthy Weight
- National Heart Lung and Blood Institute: Calculate Your Body Mass Index
- Cleveland Clinic; Very Low-Calorie Diets; Nov. 14, 2006
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