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Weight Loss Shakes in Australia
Very low-calorie diets (VLCDs) can be a powerful tool for weight loss and improved health when used under the guidance of a healthcare professional.
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How do very low-calorie diets work?
Very low-calorie diets work by significantly reducing daily calorie intake to typically between 800 and 1200 calories, which is much lower than the average daily intake of around 2000 calories for most adults. This drastic reduction forces the body to use its stored fat for energy, a process known as ketosis.
The study by Parretti et al. (2016) shows that combining VLCDs with behavioural programs is highly effective for significant weight loss. The initial weight loss is substantial due to the body’s shift to burning stored fat, and while the rate of weight loss decreases over time, this combination helps maintain the weight loss more effectively than behavioural programs alone (1).
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How Effective Are Very Low-Calorie Diets?
Based on the study by Parretti et al. (2016), on average, people on VLCDs can expect to lose about 3.9 kg in the first year. While the weight loss tends to decrease over time, there is still a sustained benefit, with an average loss of 1.4 kg at 24 months and 1.3 kg at 38-60 months compared to behavioural programs alone. However, individual outcomes may vary based on adherence to the diet, starting weight, and metabolic factors (1).
How Long Until You See Results?
Very low-calorie diets can produce noticeable results relatively quickly, often within a few weeks. Many people experience significant weight loss in the first month or two of following a VLCD. The rate of weight loss can vary depending on factors such as starting weight, metabolism, and adherence to the diet.
How Do I Use Very Low-Calorie Diets?
Once prescribed a very low-calorie diet by your healthcare provider, follow the plan carefully. Stick to the meal and calorie guidelines, which often include meal replacements, shakes, soups, or specialised low-calorie meals. Regularly check in with your provider to monitor your progress and ensure safe weight loss. After reaching your goals, work with your provider to transition to a sustainable eating plan. VLCDs are part of a comprehensive weight management plan and should always be used under professional supervision.
Are There Side Effects of Very Low-Calorie Diets?
Very low-calorie diets are generally safe when used correctly under professional supervision. Potential side effects, which are rare if the diet is followed properly, can include nutrient deficiencies, fatigue, gallstones, muscle loss, and digestive issues.
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Sources
Weight prevalence, reporting, impact and experience:
- Parretti, H. M., Jebb, S. A., Johns, D. J., Lewis, A. L., Christian-Brown, A. M., & Aveyard, P. (2016). Clinical effectiveness of very-low-energy diets in the management of weight loss: a systematic review and meta-analysis of randomized controlled trials. Obesity Reviews, 17(3), 225-234. https://doi.org/10.1111/obr.12366
- Australian Institute of Health and Welfare. Overweight and obesity [Internet]. Canberra: Australian Institute of Health and Welfare; 2023 [cited 2024 Jun 4].
Jastreboff AM, Aronne LJ, Ahmad NN, Wharton S, Connery L, Alves B, et al. Tirzepatide Once Weekly for the Treatment of Obesity. N Engl J Med. 2022 Jul 21;387(3):205-216. doi: 10.1056/NEJMoa2206038. Epub 2022 Jun 4. PMID: 35658024. DOI: 10.1056/NEJMoa2206038.
Jain AK, Kaplan RA, Gadde KM, Wadden TA, Allison DB, Brewer ER, et al. Bupropion SR vs. Placebo for Weight Loss in Obese Patients with Depressive Symptoms. Obesity. First published: 06 September 2012.
Weintraub M, Sundaresan PR, Madan M, Schuster B, Balder A, Lasagna L, et al. Long-term weight control study I (weeks 0 to 34): The enhancement of behavior modification, caloric restriction, and exercise by fenfluramine plus phentermine versus placebo. Clin Pharmacol Ther. First published: May 1992.
Mehta A, Marso SP, Neeland IJ. Liraglutide for weight management: a critical review of the evidence. Obes Sci Pract. First published: 09 November 2016.
Jastreboff AM, Aronne LJ, Ahmad NN, Wharton S, Connery L, Alves B, et al. Tirzepatide Once Weekly for the Treatment of Obesity. N Engl J Med. 2022;387:205-216. DOI: 10.1056/NEJMoa2206038.
Wilding JPH, Batterham RL, Calanna S, Davies M, Van Gaal LF, Lingvay I, et al. Once-Weekly Semaglutide in Adults with Overweight or Obesity. N Engl J Med. 2021 Feb 10;384(11):989-1002. DOI: 10.1056/NEJMoa2032183.
