Dr. Nowzaradan's Diet Philosophy
Dr. Younan Nowzaradan, a Houston-based bariatric surgeon known from the TLC series My 600-Lb Life, primarily recommends an extremely low-calorie, high-protein diet for his morbidly obese patients. This diet is designed for rapid, short-term weight loss in preparation for bariatric surgery, which helps reduce surgical risks by shrinking the liver. It is not a sustainable, long-term plan for the general population and should only be undertaken with strict medical supervision.
The fundamental principles of the Dr. Now diet can be broken down using the acronym "FAT".
- Frequency: Patients are instructed to eat only two to three meals per day and eliminate all snacking. This helps to control total daily caloric intake and retrains eating habits.
- Amount: The calorie intake is severely restricted, most commonly to a maximum of 1,200 calories per day. This amount can be divided into two 600-calorie meals or three 400-calorie meals. For some patients, calorie counts may drop even lower, under close medical observation.
- Type: The focus is on nutrient-dense foods that are high in protein and fiber but low in carbohydrates and fat. Sugary and highly processed foods are strictly forbidden.
The "FAT" Approach: How It Works
The FAT method is not just about a calorie count; it's a comprehensive strategy to reset a patient's relationship with food. By controlling the frequency of meals, Dr. Now helps his patients break the habit of constant grazing and snacking that often contributed to their weight gain. The strict calorie amount creates a significant energy deficit, forcing the body to burn stored fat for energy. The emphasis on the type of food is critical, as high-protein and high-fiber foods promote satiety, helping patients feel full on fewer calories. This combination leads to the rapid weight loss necessary for surgical candidacy.
Recommended Foods on the Dr. Now Diet
The diet focuses on whole, unprocessed foods. Below is a list of typically approved items:
- Lean Protein: Egg whites, skinless chicken breast, turkey breast, fish (like tuna, salmon), extra-lean ground beef, beans, lentils, and tofu are staples.
- Non-Starchy Vegetables: An abundance of leafy greens (spinach, kale, lettuce), broccoli, cauliflower, zucchini, bell peppers, and asparagus are encouraged.
- Low-Sugar Fruits: Small portions of berries and apples are generally acceptable, while higher-sugar fruits are avoided.
- Low-Fat Dairy: Plain, nonfat Greek yogurt, skim milk, and nonfat cottage cheese provide additional protein and calcium.
- Fats (in moderation): Healthy fats in tiny quantities, such as flax or chia seeds, are included for flavor and nutrients. Cooking spray or small amounts of healthy oil can be used.
- Fluids: Water is the primary beverage, with other zero-calorie drinks like unsweetened tea also permitted.
Foods to Strictly Avoid
This diet features a very long list of forbidden foods, which is essential to its strict nature. Patients must completely eliminate:
- All Sugary Items: Candy, cookies, cakes, ice cream, pastries, soda, and sweetened beverages are forbidden.
- Most Starchy Carbs: This includes white and brown rice, pasta, white bread, and potatoes. Some whole grains like whole-wheat bread and tortillas may be included in small, measured portions.
- High-Sugar Fruits: Mango, banana, watermelon, and cantaloupe are typically off-limits.
- Most Nuts and Seeds: Despite being healthy, most nuts and seeds are calorie-dense and must be avoided, with few exceptions like chia and flax seeds.
- Processed and Fried Foods: Fast food, high-fat meats (bacon, sausage), and fried items are strictly prohibited.
- Alcohol: All alcohol is forbidden due to its high-calorie content and empty calories.
Comparison of the Dr. Now Diet vs. a Standard 1,800-Calorie Plan
| Feature | Dr. Nowzaradan's Diet | Typical 1,800-Calorie Plan |
|---|---|---|
| Calorie Intake | Extremely restrictive, typically 1,200 kcal or less | Moderate restriction for general weight loss or maintenance |
| Primary Goal | Rapid, pre-operative weight loss for morbidly obese patients | Gradual, sustainable weight loss for a wide population |
| Protein Intake | Very high, prioritizing lean sources to maintain muscle mass | Balanced intake, sufficient for satiety and muscle maintenance |
| Carbohydrate & Fat | Very low restriction on carbs and fats | Moderate amounts of healthy fats and complex carbs |
| Meal Frequency | 2-3 structured meals per day; no snacks | 3 meals and 1-2 snacks per day is common |
| Food Selection | Strict, detailed list of approved and avoided foods | Wider variety of food groups permitted, with focus on balance |
| Medical Supervision | Mandatory due to risks and extreme nature | Recommended but often managed independently |
| Sustainability | Not intended for long-term use; short-term intervention | Designed for long-term, sustainable lifestyle changes |
Risks and Considerations
While highly effective for its intended purpose, the Dr. Now diet carries several risks that make it unsuitable for most individuals. The extreme calorie restriction can lead to nutritional deficiencies in vital vitamins and minerals over time. Furthermore, such restrictive diets can cause metabolic changes, potentially slowing down metabolism and leading to rebound weight gain once the diet is stopped. Alterations to gut microbiota can also occur. This is why medical supervision is not optional but mandatory, especially for those with comorbidities associated with morbid obesity.
Conclusion In conclusion, what diets does Dr. Nowzaradan recommend? Primarily, a highly restrictive, low-calorie, high-protein plan designed to enable rapid weight loss in patients preparing for bariatric surgery. The diet's strict 'FAT' principles—controlling frequency, amount, and type of food—are crucial for achieving the necessary pre-operative weight loss and demonstrate a patient's commitment to lifestyle changes. However, due to its restrictive nature and potential for health complications, this diet is not recommended for the general public and should only be undertaken under strict medical guidance. Always consult a healthcare professional before starting any very low-calorie diet to ensure it is safe and appropriate for your specific health needs.
For more information on the safety of very low-calorie diets, you can review expert guidance from sources like Healthline.
