Very-low-calorie diets. Safe treatment for moderate and morbid obesity.

Very-low-calorie diets are a tedious but effective treatment for moderate and morbid obesity. An exercise program, nutrition counseling, and behavior modification are essential elements in the total program. Careful supervision by a knowledgeable physician and commitment by both the patient and the physician are essential. Although some side effects are inevitable with drastic weight reduction, current formulas are safer than those used in the past.