In the wave of pursuing the perfect body, the “Very Low-Calorie Diet” has become a dazzling star, quickly capturing the attention of many weight loss enthusiasts. This dietary method restricts daily caloric intake to just 400 to 800 calories, allowing individuals to effortlessly lose 1 to 2.5 kg in just one week. However, the hidden health risks behind this approach cannot be ignored.
Physicians from the Division of Metabolism and Endocrinology at Linkou Chang Gung Memorial Hospital have pointed out that while the Very Low-Calorie Diet can yield quick results, its side effects may come at a much higher cost. Long-term reliance on this dietary method can lead to endocrine disorders, including irregular menstruation, decreased libido, and bone loss. Moreover, if one excessively relies on ultra-processed meal replacement products, such as protein powders and cookies, it can result in nutritional deficiencies due to a lack of essential antioxidants from vegetables and fruits, further increasing the risk of cancer.
It is essential to consume enough vegetables and fruits for antioxidants (Photo: Retrieved from Canva).
The physician also mentioned on their Facebook page that the Very Low-Calorie Diet is primarily used for short-term treatment of morbid obesity in medical settings. These patients often need to lose weight rapidly before surgery to reduce surgical risks. During this process, they are usually monitored in a hospital to ensure safety.
When the body’s caloric intake is too low, it automatically enters a "power-saving mode," reducing metabolism. This not only affects health but can also trigger a range of issues, such as psychological stress, sleep disorders, and weakened immunity. The physician advises that if these symptoms occur during weight loss, dietary adjustments should be made promptly.
Additionally, the physician emphasized that the risk of regaining weight with the Very Low-Calorie Diet is extremely high. Once the body adapts to low caloric intake, it becomes more challenging to return to normal dietary and exercise routines. Although exercise is an important means of reducing the likelihood of weight regain, muscle loss during this diet can lower the basal metabolic rate, thereby affecting long-term physical performance.
In conclusion, the physician suggests that while the low-calorie meal replacement diet can yield quick results, long-term use may lead to more adverse effects from a health perspective. A balanced diet combined with regular exercise is a safer way to achieve weight loss goals gradually. If necessary, legal medications can be used under a doctor’s guidance as an adjunct treatment. Choosing a healthy weight loss method is the key to achieving lasting beauty and health!
Balanced diet and regular exercise will gradually help achieve weight loss goals (Photo: Retrieved from Canva).
