A new diet that has been gaining traction in recent years is the 1000 calorie diet. Much as you might expect from the name, this diet is simply one in which the dieter consumes only 1000 calories per day. The reasoning behind very low calorie diets such as this is that creating a much larger daily caloric deficit through caloric restriction, but there are a few flaws to that argument. Read on to discover a few considerations that you need to take into account before beginning the 1000 calorie diet.

The 1000 calorie a day diet is not appropriate for everyone. Every body is different and everyone has nutritional needs, so you need to be careful that any diet you take is going to be beneficial for you before starting it. That said, the 1000 calorie diet, unless directly supervised by your doctor, should be reserved for people who are either very petite or elderly. Otherwise, the caloric deficit can be so low that you risk a slowdown of metabolism or a decrease in thyroid function.

Aside from the potential health risks, it is also important to note that following a very low calorie diet for weight loss can pose some additional challenges. Most people, particularly those who are overweight, have spent an extended period of time following a diet that contains 2000 or more calories. When you suddenly reduce your calorie intake to 1000 calories, this can produce quite a shock to the system, both physically and mentally. Hunger is the most obvious problem that you will have to contend with, and they can take the form of intense cravings. Diets that work have to be not only simple, but easy to stick to for a very long time.

Putting together a menu that only contains 1000 calories per day can also pose some difficulties. Modern diets consist primarily of fats, some proteins, and a huge amount of refined carbohydrates. In order to follow a 1000 calorie meal plan, some major changes will be required. While there is no argument that eliminating refined carbohydrates and replacing them with plenty of fibrous vegetables is a much healthier way to eat, the change is again a drastic one, especially when it is combined with a sudden and extreme reduction in calories.

As you can see, the 1000 calorie diet is clearly not for everyone. Suddenly switching from a high calorie diet to such a highly restrictive diet is extremely difficult to adapt to, both physically and mentally, and can potentially even result in health risks. If you are overweight, it is important to cut your calories and lose weight, but there is a point where it is no longer healthy. All things considered, it is important to work with your doctor in order to develop an eating plan that is not only low in calories, but also sustainable for the long term.