Endocrinologist Discusses the Effectiveness of VLCKD Diet for Weight Loss
Have you ever heard of the VLCKD diet? This acronym stands for Very Low Carb Keto Diet, a very low carbohydrate diet that aims to achieve weight loss by focusing on shedding fat mass while preserving muscle tissue and liquids. But does it really work? Is it suitable for everyone? Does it lead to stable weight loss or is it a counterproductive extreme diet?
To explore this topic further, we spoke with Professor Giovanni Spera, an Endocrinologist who has extensive experience in the field. According to Professor Spera, the VLCKD diet is a dietary therapy that aims to induce physiological ketosis through minimal carbohydrate consumption, typically ranging from 30-50 grams per day. It is also a low-calorie diet, customized based on individual metabolic and therapeutic needs, with caloric intake ranging from 800 to 1500 kcal per day.
The key to the effectiveness of the VLCKD diet lies in the production of ketones, which suppress hunger and make the diet easier to follow compared to traditional low-calorie diets. This feature makes it particularly suitable for individuals who have struggled with other diets in the past due to excessive food restrictions.
However, Professor Spera emphasizes that the VLCKD diet should not be undertaken independently. It requires medical supervision to tailor the diet to individual needs and health conditions. The diet can lead to significant weight loss, with some individuals losing up to 20 kg in 6 weeks, followed by a stabilization and reintegration phase.
One of the most beneficial aspects of the VLCKD diet is its ability to target fat reserves, rather than muscle mass or fluids. By eliminating sugar intake, the body is forced to burn fat for energy, leading to a healthier weight loss process.
While some may argue that the VLCKD diet is unbalanced compared to diets like the Mediterranean Diet, Professor Spera clarifies that the VLCKD diet is a therapeutic approach limited to a specific period, aimed at achieving a particular result. After completing the diet, individuals can transition to a balanced diet that includes all macro nutrients, such as the Mediterranean Diet.
In conclusion, the VLCKD diet can be an effective method for weight loss, especially for individuals who have had difficulties with other diets. However, it is crucial to follow the diet under medical supervision and transition to a balanced diet for long-term health and maintenance of results.Speak with a healthcare professional before starting any new diet plan to determine if it is suitable for you.