An Extreme Low-Calorie Diet May Stop Diabetes. Is It Safe?

An extreme low-calorie diet (ELCD) is a diet that restricts calorie intake to 800-1,000 calories per day. This is significantly lower than the recommended daily calorie intake for most adults, which is 2,000-2,500 calories.

ELCDs have been shown to be effective in helping people with type 2 diabetes lose weight and improve their blood sugar control. In some cases, ELCDs have even been shown to reverse type 2 diabetes.

However, ELCDs can also be restrictive and difficult to follow, and they can cause side effects such as fatigue, headaches, constipation, and nausea. It is important to talk to a doctor before starting an ELCD to make sure it is safe for you.

A recent study published in the journal JAMA Internal Medicine found that an ELCD was more effective than a low-fat diet in helping people with type 2 diabetes lose weight and improve their blood sugar control. The study participants who followed the ELCD lost an average of 15 pounds more than the participants who followed the low-fat diet. They also saw a greater improvement in their blood sugar control.

The ELCD in the study was provided as a meal replacement program. The participants ate shakes, soups, and bars that were low in calories but high in protein and nutrients. The participants were also given counseling and support to help them stick to the diet.

The study found that the ELCD was safe and effective for most participants. However, some participants did experience side effects such as fatigue, headaches, constipation, and nausea. These side effects were usually mild and went away after a few weeks.

The researchers say that an ELCD may be a safe and effective option for people with type 2 diabetes who are looking to lose weight and improve their blood sugar control. However, they caution that ELCDs should only be followed under the supervision of a doctor.