Can I drink coffee?
Yes you can. Coffee contains caffeine, which is a stimulant. Some appetite suppressants are also
stimulants. Together there may be more risk of nervousness and insomnia. If you quit taking caffeine
products too quickly you may develop withdrawal headaches. I do not recommend stopping your caffeine
too suddenly. Most people have no problem using their regular amount of caffeine and adding an
appetite suppressant.
Can I eat fruit?
During the rapid weight loss phase of treatment we would like you to avoid fruit because of the
high sugar content. During the maintenance phase fruit is encouraged.
What can I drink?
Any very low calorie drink is acceptable. The best is water. Diet soda, coffee or tea with
artificial sweetener is also fine. Fruit juices, alcohol, and regular sodas are not allowed due
to calories and sugar content.
What type of meat is allowed?
Any type including beef, chicken, turkey, pork, or fish.
Will I feel tired because of the low calorie diet?
The diet will provide all the nutrients that your body needs. Your energy will come from your
body fat stores. There is no shortage of energy there. You will also be taking medication and
vitamins that will improve your energy level. The small frequent meals provide you with a
steady source of energy without the blood sugar swings and bloated feeling that you might get
with your regular diet.
If you exercise you should keep your level of exertion sub maximal for the
first week to give your body a chance to adjust to the change in macronutrients (Those
nutrients normally required in the greatest amount; e.g., carbohydrates, protein, fats.)
and the change occurring within the body from a principally sugar metabolism to fat
metabolism for fuel.
What side effects does the medication have?
You may experience dry mouth, nervousness, or insomnia. These symptoms are usually mild and
temporary. If you have them they will usually be gone in 2-3 days. If you are unusually
sensitive we can start at a lower dose and advance it slowly as needed and as tolerated.
Why is the food important?
The food is the most important part of any diet. The diet principles that are most important
are low calories, low carbohydrates, adequate protein, and small frequent meals. By using a
special high nutrient food we can provide the right nourishment for your body in a minimal
number of calories. We can also make this convenient because of the quick and portable
nature of the nutrient snacks.
Patients are seldom able to match the results they get from this special
food with regular food off the shelf. Losing weight slowly is fine but often does not get
a patient to her weight goal. Discouragement usually results in discontinuing the diet
before the goal is attained.
How will I maintain after I lose my excess weight?
Keeping the weight off will require ongoing effort. Exercise is important. You burn more
calories and it helps keep you in the healthy eating frame of mind. You do not need to
stay on an 800-calorie diet to maintain. Usually a 1500-calorie diet will work fine. Many
patients continue to eat our nutrient snacks two or three times per day to keep their
overall calories low and protein adequate. Some will set a limit for their weight. If
they reach a certain number, they immediately go on the rapid weight loss program again
until any extra pounds are gone again.
What if I can not exercise at this time?
You can still lose nearly as much weight. In the rapid weight loss phase, the diet and
medication are the most important factors. After you lose your weight and you are trying
to maintain it, then some type of exercise is very important.
This program is GUARANTEED to work for anyone
who is motivated and dedicated.
If you would like additional information on Dr. Healy's Diet,
call our toll free number 1-800-884-7546 or
email us.
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