I.M.120 Helping you to BE YOUR BEST SELF

The European food safety authority  (EFSA) has developed recommendations for very low calorie meal replacement diets. The recommendations support higher levels of protein and lower levels of carbohydrates than had been previously advised.  The report also emphasizes the importance of high-quality in the proteins selected.  The recommendations reinforce macronutrient teaching used in the I.M.120 Method.

The recommendations from EFSA call for 75 g of protein and 30 g of carbs on a daily basis when eating 600 cal per day.

THE RISK OF FASTING

While these recommendations are welcomed, they serve to emphasize the hazard of severe caloric restriction. Partial fasting, or daily intake of less than 800 cal a day on average, exposes individuals to the risk of malnutrition. Weakening of the immune system, thinning of bone, loss of muscle mass, compromise of vital organ function are all potential consequences.  Nobody should pursue such extreme caloric restriction without experienced physician supervision. The recommendations also point out the liability of using "Nutri bullet" and other vegetable and fruit blending concoctions.  Such concentrated forms of low protein carbohydrates beverages are simply not effective when it comes to sustainable weight loss.

REBOUND WEIGHT GAIN

Severe fasting such as the 600 cal diet leads to a high risk of rebound weight gain when the diet is discontinued.  We have had great success with partial meal replacement combined with knowledgeable macronutrient selection. This approach enables clients to make permanent, sustainable change that can be continued through the span of your life.

WHO SHOULD FAST

The 600 cal, partial fasting approach can have a role in treating clients in imminent danger due to their obesity.  This includes the need for preoperative weight loss. Some cases of severe sleep apnea. Some cases of severe arthritic knees or hips.  In all cases of partial fasting, a reentry program needs to be carefully constructed to maintain the weight loss that has been achieved and to prevent the rebound weight gain that I spoke of earlier. Partial fasting also requires the use of properly balanced supplements to ensure micronutrient support.

PUTTING IT TOGETHER

The EFSA recommendations help give guidance when it comes to partial fasting.  It also reinforces the safety and effectiveness of the high-protein, low-carbohydrate approach to weight management.  The I.M.120 Method supports the high-protein macronutrient pathway, however we recognize that in some cases alternative macronutrient portions can be effective.

The science and medicine of obesity treatment continues to make advances.  The American Medical Association has appropriately declared obesity as a medical disorder.  Using the best knowledge regarding nutrition, supplements and pharmacology will give people suffering with this condition their best and healthiest lifespan.

- Dr. Steve Petteruti