How many calories does someone on a very low calorie diet (VLCD) typically consume daily?

A very low calorie diet (VLCD) is designed to create significant caloric restriction for the purposes of weight loss, and it typically involves consuming around 800 calories per day. This low intake is intended for individuals who are significantly overweight and may require medical supervision due to the potential health risks associated with such a drastic reduction in caloric intake.

VLCDs generally aim to provide sufficient nutrients while substantially lowering caloric intake, which is why 800 calories is a common benchmark for these diets. At this level of caloric consumption, it allows the body to enter a state of ketosis, where it burns stored fat for energy, thereby facilitating rapid weight loss.

While options like 1,000 and 1,200 calories are lower than the standard caloric recommendations for most individuals, they do not fall within the definitions of a VLCD, which is specifically characterized by this more severe calorie restriction. Similarly, the lowest option of 600 calories would typically be considered too low and not sustainable or safe for most individuals, as it may not meet basic metabolic needs.