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Low Calorie Diet Tips

Low-calorie and very low-calorie diets are eating plans in which the projected food intake for a given day falls far below the normal expectation. They are generally recommended for people who are severely overweight, and are only followed for a short time. Low-calorie diets are not appropriate for children, adolescents or pregnant women and can cause serious health problems if followed for too long or incorrectly. Additionally, they must always be properly monitored to avoid health risks.

  1. Consult a Physician

    • The most valuable tip that can be issued regarding low-calorie diets is to consult a physician. Low-calorie diets are never appropriate unless they have been recommended, formulated and monitored by a doctor. They are not a tool for casual weight loss; rather, low-calorie diets are for obese individuals who need to lose weight quickly. A doctor-prescribed low-calorie diet will usually last around 12 weeks, barring any complications. During this time, it is important to follow all of the doctor's orders regarding nutrition, exercise and medical procedures. Doctors usually have their patients come in to have blood tests and general exams, as well as weigh-ins. Patients may also have to participate in behavioral and physical therapy programs.

    Follow the Plan

    • Low-calorie diets are designed to provide maximum nutrition for minimal calories. On average, a low-calorie diet will include many fresh fruits and vegetables. It may also include items containing simple grains, such as oatmeal. Many doctors will use liquid supplements in place of food to ensure patients are getting all of the nutrients they require to function. Patients following a doctor-prescribed low-calorie diet must follow the food plan exactly to get the desired result.

    Dealing with Side Effects

    • Coping with the side effects can be one of the hardest aspects of being on a low-calorie diet. Patients on a low-calorie diet often feel tired, dizzy and nauseous. They may also experience either diarrhea or constipation. These symptoms often disappear after several weeks of the program, but doctors must be informed if they are occurring. The physician may be able to prescribe a medication to help the patient through the first few weeks. Staying hydrated is also key to enduring this diet; patients should drink the plan's recommended amount of water every day.

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