Very Low Calorie Diets (VLCD)

Very Low Calorie Diets is a diet plan that uses a prepared meal, often a shake or protein bar, to replace meals in an attempt to provide quick weight loss. This should not be attempted without supervision by a doctor. Most of these plans involve limiting the daily intake to 800 or fewer calories per day.

A very low calorie diet is not appropriate for most people seeking to lose weight. They can more safely use a standard low calorie diet (lcd). These provide 1,000 to 1,200 calories for a woman and 1,200 to 1,600 calories for a man.

People on a VLCD should be checked by medical professionals at least every two weeks. One danger during quick weight loss is the development of gallstones.

It is common for people who have lost weight on a VLCD to regain weight once they are off the diet. They should phase into a moderate and sensible eating plan with exercise to maintain the weight loss for the long term.