Weight Loss Fast Facts, Last Updated:09/06/2010
The Very Low Calorie Diet, or VLCD, is a special diet to be
undertaken with medical supervision. It offers rapid fat loss but
can be dangerous. It consists of the consumption of a special
powder mixed in with 200-300 ml of water to be taken three times a
day. The drink, similar to a milkshake, provides approximately 1914
kJ (456 Cal) of energy per day when consumed at breakfast, lunch
and dinner. It contains all necessary vitamins and minerals,
although there is a risk of overdosing on selenium if a person consumes more than they
should (more than three times per day). VLCDs should only be used
for dieting when a person's body mass index exceeds 30. In addition, at
least two liters of water must be consumed per day and a person
should consider using dietary fiber supplements regularly. Without
this, the person risks severe constipation. |
