Comparison of weight loss on low-calorie (800-1200) and very-low-calorie (300-600) diets
Blondhein, S.H.; Horne, T.; Kaufmann, N.A.; Rozen, P.
International Journal of Obesity 5(3): 313-317
1981
ISSN/ISBN: 0307-0565 PMID: 7275469 Document Number: 171986
Very-low-calorie (300-600 kcal) diets (VLCD) followed for 14-20 days were not as effective as expected in increasing the rate of weight loss in 10 obese patients who had previously followed conventional 800-1200 kcal diets for 13-30 days. In no case did the rate of weight loss exceed expectations from the greater caloric deficit; the greatest increase in rate of weight loss was only 76% of that expected. Final weights attained after refeeding the 800-1200 kcal diets for 9-14 days were 0.5-2.0 kg greater than theoretically expected in all patients. The relative inefficiency of VLCDs containing natural foods may be due to decreased energy requirements, resting metabolism, dietary thermogenesis, physical activity or energy output of patients. Because it is easier for patients to maintain a VLCD than a low-calorie diet, total weight loss on VLCD may be greater for prolonged periods of dieting. (nm)