A very low-calorie diet is a substantially restrictive eating plan. Programs of this type may be used in some clinical settings. Discuss whether a program is appropriate with a qualified healthcare professional before attempting it.
Ask why the plan is being considered
Discuss your health goals, medications and the options available. Ask how the clinician determines whether the plan is suitable and what they would monitor during it.
Understand the safeguards
Ask about nutrition, side effects and how to get help if you feel unwell. Check who supervises the plan, how often you will be seen and whether medication changes might be needed.
Plan for the transition
Ask what happens when the restrictive phase ends. Discuss how the team will help you return to a sustainable eating pattern and what follow-up is available.
Questions to bring about a very low-calorie diet
Ask the clinician why they would consider this approach in your case and what other options they would discuss. Bring the program materials so you can review the expected schedule, follow-up, and cost together. Find out whom to contact if you have questions or symptoms between visits and what information they want you to track.
Discuss what happens after the supervised phase
Ask how the team would help you plan meals and routines when the program ends. Explain what has made previous changes hard to maintain, including work hours, family meals, or budget. Make sure you know when the team will review progress and who will help you make adjustments if needed.
For more detail, see NIDDK’s guide to choosing a weight-loss program. Also see What Is A Low Calorie Diet? for another part of this series.