Frequently Asked Questions

Is a Very Low Calorie Diet (VLCD) safe?

Under proper medical supervision, VLCDs produce quick, significant weight loss in patients who are moderately to extremely obese. This type of diet has been in use for several decades and has been endorsed by the National Institute of Health’s (NIH) Weight-control information Network and the American Council on Sports Medicine.

How do I know if this program is right for me?

Very Low Calorie Diets are designed for patients with a BMI over 30 (or 27 with other medical conditions). If you are at least 30 to 40 pounds overweight, you may be a good candidate for a VLCD. If you would like to lose less weight, you may choose our Low Calorie Diet (LCD) instead.

What kind of results can I expect?

VLCDs deliver rapid weight loss—typically 3 ½ to 4 ½ pounds per week, for an average of 40-50 pounds in 12 weeks. Your results will depend on many factors, including your starting weight, other medical conditions, and individual program design.

Does the program offer other benefits besides weight loss?

The many potential health benefits include lower blood pressure, lower blood-sugar levels in people with Type 2 diabetes, lower serum cholesterol, improved cardiovascular health, and reduced pain in weight-bearing joints. Weight loss with a VLCD can reduce or eliminate the need for related medications. Self-esteem and energy levels can also soar dramatically!

How long will I stay on this diet?

Your individual needs may vary, but most patients follow the weight-loss phase of the program for 12-24 weeks.

What do the supplements taste like?

Good news here! The shakes, puddings, soups and nutrition bars for this program are delicious and available in a variety of flavors. They’ll help you stave off “diet fatigue” and give you the flavor and satisfaction you crave. After the first week on the weight-loss phase, you may also add solid protein; chicken, beef, fish, cheese, etc.

How is this program different from other diets?

When on a VLCD, calories and carbohydrates are limited and your body burns its own stored fat for energy. The fat is released into the bloodstream, travels to the liver and is converted to ketones. Ketones are then released back into the bloodstream and used for energy.

Will I be hungry on this plan?

Most clients report that their hunger diminishes within two days due to the presence of ketones and reduced food temptations. We also have very effective prescription appetite suppressant medications that work in the brain to eliminate hunger and reduce the amount of food you can eat.

Are there side effects to this diet?

You may experience mild, temporary side effects as your body adjusts to the program. These include greater sensitivity to cold, headaches, fruity breath, fatigue or lightheadedness. Physician supervision and medical monitoring during a VLCD are important to help evaluate and manage possible side effects and changes in medication.

Who should not attempt this diet?

VLCDs are not recommended for children or for pregnant or nursing women. In addition, a VLCD may not be warranted in people who have conflicting medical conditions or are taking certain medications. Your physician can assess whether a VLCD is right for you.

I’m considering bariatric surgery, why do I need a diet?

All insurance companies and many bariatric surgeons require patients to participate in a weight loss program before surgery. Doing so can reduce the risk of surgical complications and prepare patients for their post-surgery lifestyle and eating plan.

If I lose weight would it make a difference in my high blood pressure or the medication I take to treat it?

Yes, weight loss actually helps reduce high blood pressure—sometimes to a level where you could reduce or even eliminate your blood pressure medication entirely.

I have diabetes. Can losing weight lower my blood sugar?

Yes, losing weight can lower your blood sugar if you’re a type 2 diabetic or pre-diabetic. Just a 10% weight loss can greatly affect your blood sugar and possibly even minimize your use of diabetic medications. View our informative diabetes video.

Can I reduce my cholesterol by losing weight?

Yes, you can boost your chances of lowering your cholesterol with a three-prong approach: modify your fat intake, exercise regularly, and lose weight.

Can being overweight make me more susceptible to cancer?

Being overweight won’t give you cancer, but it can increase your risk for many different cancers, including colon, breast and endometrial cancer.

Could my excess weight be the reason I’ve been unsuccessful in getting pregnant?

Possibly.A women’s weight can sometimes affect her fertility.

I was recently diagnosed with sleep apnea, which causes me to snore a lot and sometimes stop breathing during sleep. Will it help if I lose weight?

For those with sleep apnea, even modest weight reduction may alleviate the need for long-term therapy or upper-airway surgery.

Is my excess weight ruining my joints?

It’s difficult for the natural cushions in our joints to withstand extra body weight. Losing weight can reduce the wear and tear on your joints.

I suffer from a lot of back problems. Would losing weight alleviate the pain?

If you carry most of your “extra pounds” around your abdomen, this can put excess stress on your back muscles. Losing weight and strengthening your abdominal muscles can greatly relieve your discomfort.

If I’m overweight, does that increase my risk for developing heart disease?

Yes, being overweight greatly increases your risk for heart disease.

How can I get started on your program?

Call us for help. We offer a comprehensive program with an expert team of weight management professionals to help you achieve your individual goals. Our “how to’ educational approach teaches you about planning and preparing balanced, healthful meals, dealing effectively with the stresses of weight management, incorporating exercise into your daily routine, preventing relapses and more. Plus, we offer you personalized support for that extra dose of motivation and encouragement you sometimes need.