Very Low Calorie Diet (VLCD) is an effective and safe way to lose weight. It is a useful method especially for those who are obese and are suffering health problems related to obesity, such as high blood pressure and diabetes. It is also suitable for those who want to get a head start in losing weight, even if there are no related health problems.
VLCD means restricting daily Calorie (kcal) intake to no more than 800 Calories daily, using heavily supplemented special dieting products. This makes it possible to lose 3-5 pounds per week. The rate of weight loss varies from one individual to another. A four-week VLCD diet can result in weight loss of up to 16-20 pounds. In significantly overweight persons, a weight loss of 16 pounds will already result in beneficial effects on their health, including lower blood pressure, lower blood sugar levels, and decreased risk for cardiovascular disease and musculoskeletal diseases such as degenerative arthritis.
VLCD is a thoroughly studied and documented weight loss system, and it is used by medical institutions and hospitals all over the world. If you have health problems, VLCD should be started under the supervision of a physician.
VLCD is not an expensive form of dieting - a course of VLCD products will actually cost less than the groceries for a corresponding period of time. VLCD is also very motivating - the results can be seen on the scale in just a few days, and in a couple of weeks the results will be evident in the mirror - and the consequent feeling of achievement helps to stay motivated throughout the course of the diet.
The Calorie intake during a VLCD diet is very low - 800 Calories a day - about a half of what the body would use if one were to stay sedentary the whole day. This commonly results in side effects, especially at the beginning of VLCD. The most common side effects are constipation, fatigue, dizziness, and decrease of sexual activity. There are also other, less common side effects, but generally VLCD is well tolerated, and many of the side effects resolve over the course of the first week of dieting.