800 Calorie Diet Plan

The 800 calorie diet plan is classified as a very low calorie diet that requires physician supervision. The diet is designed for individuals with a body mass index greater than 30 to lose weight rapidly in a three- to six-month span. The average weight loss while pursuing the 800 calorie diet plan is an average of three to five pounds per week.

Liquid Diet

The 800 calorie diet plan will be created by your physician to address your specific needs. The diet usually involves eliminating regular food from your diet and replacing it with a liquid diet. As part of the plan, your physician will often require behavioral therapy and physical activity.

The regular meals are generally substituted with either special nutritional products containing high amounts of protein and a variety of vitamins and minerals or foods that contain the required amount of nutrition. The special nutritional products are generally 100 calories and are mixed in water. Individuals who have the craving for something salty or the desire to chew something can discuss with their physician what options are available.

While undergoing the 800 calorie diet plan, patients are carefully monitored by their physician. The patient will see his physician every two weeks, and the physician will record changes in weight, blood pressure and pulse. Blood tests are taken every two weeks and other tests may be done as well. Close supervision is imperative because of the drastic caloric restriction and the potential need for potassium supplements.

Side Effects

Patients on the 800 calorie diet plan have reported side effects such as fatigue due to such low caloric intake, constipation, nausea and diarrhea. The side effects usually clear within a few weeks and rarely prevent completion of the diet plan.

Gallstone formation is the most common serious side effect seen with those on the 800 calorie diet plan. The likelihood of gallstone formation is increased during rapid weight loss because caloric reduction decreases the gallbladder's ability to contract bile.

Maintaining Weight Loss

Since weight regain is common after stopping the 800 calorie diet plan, commit to a permanent shift to healthier eating, daily physical activity and moderation in food consumption to maintain results.