A **Very Low-Calorie Diet (VLCD)** is a medically supervised diet plan designed for rapid weight loss. It typically provides **800 calories or fewer per day** and is intended for individuals with obesity or those needing to lose weight quickly for health reasons. VLCDs are often used under medical guidance to manage conditions like **type 2 diabetes, high blood pressure, and metabolic syndrome**.

VLCDs replace regular meals with **nutritionally complete meal replacements**, such as shakes, soups, and bars, ensuring essential vitamins, minerals, and protein intake. The diet works by inducing a calorie deficit, leading the body to burn stored fat for energy, resulting in **significant weight loss**.

The program is usually followed for a **short period (8–12 weeks)** before transitioning to a balanced, calorie-controlled diet. While effective, VLCDs can cause side effects like **fatigue, dizziness, and constipation**, and they require **medical supervision** to prevent nutrient deficiencies and muscle loss.

VLCDs are not suitable for everyone and should be considered only under a **doctor’s recommendation**. For sustainable weight loss, long-term lifestyle changes, including **healthy eating and regular physical activity**, are essential.