Very Low-Calorie Diets: Are They Safe? Benefits, Risks, and What You Need to Know.

People often adopt new diet trends, such as very low-calorie diets (VLCDs), in the hopes of losing weight quickly. These are quite restrictive and generally provide fewer than 800 calories per day. Although they can aid in rapid weight loss, they are not suitable for everyone.

It’s essential to understand the benefits, risks, and who they’re suitable for before trying a VLCD. This guide will provide you with basic, straightforward information to help you make an informed choice.

What’s a Very Low-Calorie Diet?

Very low-calorie diets are meal plans that provide significantly fewer calories than a standard diet. Most of them use meal replacements, such as shakes, soups, or small portion meals. Their use is typically brief and under medical supervision.

Sometimes, a healthy meal week plan includes VLCDs to encourage weight loss. However, this approach requires meticulous execution.

Who Should Follow a Very Low-Calorie Diet?

VLCDs are typically prescribed for:

• Individuals who are significantly overweight or obese
• People with health risks, such as diabetes or high blood pressure
• People under doctor’s guidance

If you’re simply trying to stay fit or lose a little weight, you probably don’t need such strict guidance. A balanced weekly meal plan with appropriate calorie intake might be a better option.

What are some benefits of VLCDs?

Here’s why some people opt for VLCDs:

Quick Weight Loss

Such diets often result in rapid weight loss, which is encouraging. This leads to a significant drop in blood sugar levels and a decrease in joint pain.

Health Improvements

Moreover, VLCDs can prevent diabetes, reduce cholesterol, and fight cardiovascular disease. This improvement is primarily due to the weight loss.

Controlled Meals

Typically, companies sell VLCDs as meals or meal replacements. These little things make it easier to track the calories of healthy meals.

What Are the Risks of VLCDs?

As helpful as they may be, VLCDs also carry risks:

Nutrient Deficiency

If you eat very little, you may not get enough vitamins, iron, and fibre.

Muscle Loss

Moreover, when you lose weight too quickly, muscle can also be lost along with fat. This is not an ideal situation in terms of health, particularly in the long term.

Side Effects

Some feel fatigued, faint, or weak. Others may experience irritability or trouble sleeping.

For most people, a healthier approach might be a meal plan with pre-planned dishes and healthy meal calories that help you make steady progress.

Should You Try a VLCD?

It’s up to your health needs. Always consult a doctor or a nutrition expert before starting. You should not follow VLCDs long-term without appropriate advice. For many, small changes in day-to-day eating habits can be just as effective and safe.

How Can You Safely Reduce Your Calorie Intake?

Here are some healthy meal calorie hacks you can undertake that do not involve extreme dieting:

Eat More Fibre

Fibre keeps you full. Incorporate fruits, vegetables, oats, and whole grains into your meals.

Choose Lean Proteins

Foods such as eggs, beans, and chicken aid in muscle building and prevent excessive calorie intake.

Cut Sugary Drinks

Water, lemon water, or green tea are healthier options compared to fizzy or sweet drinks.

Conclusion

Very-low-calorie diets may seem like a surefire way to lose weight quickly, but they’re not suitable for everyone. Long-term change, not quick fixes, is the key to better health. The majority of individuals will be best served by following a healthy meal plan that promotes balanced eating, consistent movement, and adequate rest.

Try Sproutrrr if you want delicious and balanced meals that help you achieve your goals. Our team prepares fresh, healthy meals and delivers them to your home. Every meal is flavourful and packed with nutrients, making it ideal for anyone who cares about wellness.

Sproutrrr Because Taste and Health Are Not Mutually Exclusive

FAQs

Q1: Can I do a VLCD with no doctor?

No, it is not safe. VLCDs are for those who need them medically and should be undertaken only with medical advice.

Q2: How long can I stay on VLCD?

These diets are intended for brief periods, typically a few weeks. If you use it for a long time, you may experience health problems.

Q3: What can I do other than a very low calorie diet (VLCD)?

You have access to a week-long meal plan that is balanced and healthy, provided you consume the appropriate number of calories. It is safer and helps maintain weight in the long term.