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Very low calorie diets should not be used.
1Department of Human Nutrition, Medical College, St. Bartholomew's Hospital, London, UK.
International Journal of Obesity
|January 1, 1989
Summary
Very low-calorie diets (VLCDs) should be avoided. Their commercial nature undermines patient confidence in conventional weight management, leading to unnecessary expenses and reduced self-efficacy in obese individuals.
Area of Science:
- Nutrition Science
- Obesity Research
- Behavioral Medicine
Background:
- Very low-calorie diets (VLCDs) are often marketed for rapid weight loss.
- Concerns exist regarding the commercial influences and effectiveness of VLCDs.
- Patient adherence and long-term success with dietary interventions are critical.
Purpose of the Study:
- To critically evaluate the use of very low-calorie diets (VLCDs) in obesity management.
- To examine the commercial underpinnings of VLCDs and their impact on patient psychology.
- To assess the overall benefit-risk profile of VLCDs compared to conventional dietary approaches.
Main Methods:
- Qualitative analysis of commercial VLCD marketing strategies.
- Review of patient testimonials and reported experiences with VLCDs.
- Comparative assessment of VLCDs versus traditional weight management programs.
Main Results:
- Commercial VLCDs often create a perception of inadequacy regarding conventional diets.
- Counselors associated with VLCDs may lack independence and expertise, driven by commercial interests.
- Obese patients incur additional costs for products, without proven necessity, and experience diminished dietary self-control.
Conclusions:
- The commercialization of VLCDs can be detrimental to obese patients' psychological well-being and dietary confidence.
- VLCDs may not be a cost-effective or psychologically sound approach for long-term obesity management.
- Emphasis should be placed on evidence-based, sustainable dietary strategies that empower patients.