There are various diet programs on the market promoting weight loss through consuming all or partial liquids through shakes. Usually these shakes are taken in place of a meal and are fairly low in calories and fat and high in protein. Liquid diets also might be prescribed before certain medical procedures, under medical observation. There are some safety concerns for long-term liquid diets, and caution should be used when partaking in them. Talk with your doctor before attempting a liquid diet.
Weight Loss
According to Elizabeth Hemphill from the Vanderbilt University Psychology Department, around $1 billion is spent per year on medical liquid diets or over-the-counter liquid diets. Liquid diets are recommended for obese people under medical supervision. Hemphill notes that liquid diets not under medical supervision can be misused and cause health risks. Liquid diets are useful for initial weight loss, and most medical liquid weight loss programs last around three months. After that, solid food is introduced. Combining exercise and behavior modification support is key for any weight loss endeavor and vital for long-term success.
Medical Procedure
A clear liquid diet can be prescribed by a doctor a day or two before a medical procedure such as surgery. A clear liquid diet consists of water, juices with no pulp, broth, gelatin, soda, sports drinks and ice pops. This diet is meant to provide hydration, electrolytes and some calories, while clearing the stomach and intestines of food. Being on a clear liquid diet longer than a few days is not recommended.
Duration
Over-the-counter liquid diets can range in recommended duration, while the liquid-only calorie portion of most medically supervised liquid diets last around 12 weeks. These are considered very low calorie diets, sometimes below 800 calories, which is why they are recommended only for obese patients under medical supervision. Overall effectiveness and safety of longer-duration liquid supplements is not known or shown in research.
Safety
Many people dieting with quick, nonsustaining weight loss regimens regain the weight. This type of "yo-yo" dieting slows metabolism, making weight loss even harder. There is a risk on very low calorie diets that gallstones or abnormal heart rhythms can develop. Speak with your doctor before starting a very low calorie diet or liquid diet. Be aware that advertisements for liquid diets might not give all information related to risks involved and the chance for weight regain once off the diet.
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