Although there are myriad weight-loss programs prescribed and monitored by doctors, they generally have in common the primary trait of what the Weight-Control Information Network (WIN) calls a very low-calorie diet (VLCD), a designation quite a few plans use. As the name implies, a VLCD greatly reduces your daily caloric intake in an effort to speed up weight loss. Because it greatly restricts the intake of calories, a doctor must closely monitor what you eat to ensure you meet your nutritional needs.
Food/Calories
A VLCD generally consists of a 400- to 800-calorie-per-day regimen, according to the Mayo Clinic. Many of these calories are from liquid sources, such as doctor-prescribed meal-replacement drinks. Your doctor may prescribe various types of foods that are ideal for you. For instance, WIN says some physicians prescribe a diet primarily of lean protein sources, such as fish and chicken.
Weight Loss Potential
Participants on a very low-calorie diet plan can expect to lose 3 to 5 lbs. per week, according to WIN. The average person loses about 44 lbs. within 12 weeks of starting a VLCD. WIN points out that most people lose between 15 and 25 percent of their total body weight during the first three to six months. Much of this weight will come back after completing the doctor-supervised diet plan, although some of the weight loss can be maintained by adopting a healthy diet and active lifestyle.
Ideal Participant
According to WIN, a VLCD is reserved primarily for obese individuals who have a body mass index of greater than 30. Some doctors may prescribe a VLCD for patients with BMIs of 27 to 30 as well. The Mayo Clinic also mentions that VLCDs may be utilized by patients who will soon be undergoing a medical procedure or who have serious health complications caused by their obesity.
Risks
There are several risks associated with very low-calorie diets, but your physician can help minimize these risks through constant monitoring, tests and medications. Failure to meet your nutritional needs is one potential health risk associated with a VLCD, which is the reason it must be monitored closely by a physician. A second potential health risk is the formation of gallstones in the gallbladder caused by an increase in cholesterol production. This is a common side effect of rapid weight loss. Medications can treat this issue.
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