With the increased incidence of obesity, the use of very-low-calorie diets (VLCDs) for quick and effective weight loss has been on the rise, despite the controversies about their safety and effectiveness in long-term weight loss.
The existing literature seems to support the belief that VLCDs provide more health benefits than risks, and appear to rapidly reduce the incidence and severity of the various complications of obesity.
The associated complications of obesity include diabetes mellitus, hypertension, and various mechanical problems such as sleep apnea and joint problems. Furthermore, the incidence of these complications has been shown to decrease following a VLCD.
For example, in a population of obese individuals with hypertension (46%), two-thirds became normotensive and most of the remaining participants experienced reduced blood pressure, serum lipid levels, and triglyceride levels, as well as increased carbohydrate tolerance and improved pulmonary function.
Several other studies have demonstrated significant improvements in insulin and glucose levels when diabetics begin a VLCD program. Other proposed benefits of VLCD-induced weight loss include increased exercise tolerance, improved self-esteem and sense of well-being, and alleviation of joint and low back pain commonly associated with carrying excess weight.
While the benefits of VLCDs are clinically significant and improve the overall health of obese individuals, the above-mentioned improvements are not permanent if the positive stimulus is removed and most improvements disappear when the lost weight is regained.
In order to control the epidemic outbreak and prevent the incidence of obesity, individuals need to understand the energy balance and factors that regulate body weight.
For now, it seems that VLCDs are one of the most effective means of weight loss and, when combined with behavior modification in a comprehensive program, can lead to long-term weight loss maintenance and may ultimately prevent obesity in the future.
At ageRejuvenation, you will find just that – a comprehensive weight-loss program focusing on proper nutrition, increasing regular physical activity, and improving your overall health and well-being.
Call ageRejuvenation today for a free consultation and to find out more about ageRejuvenation’s weight loss and fitness programs.
