The main focus of nutrition therapy is the reduction of daily calorie intake, which should take place over several steps.
1st step
In the first phase, energy intake is reduced by decreasing fat and/or carbohydrate intake. The avoidance of sugary foods is recommended.
2nd step
In the next phase, daily calorie intake should be 500 - 1000 kcal below the usual calorie intake. This calorie restriction should allow a weekly weight loss of 0.5 kg. In this phase an energy-reduced mixed diet is recommended, which is high in fibre and protein as well as low in fat: 50-55 % carbohydrates, 30 % fat and 15-20 % protein. A high level of fruit and vegetables should be taken into account when selecting food.
3rd step
In this phase individual or all meals can be replaced by formula products. This refers to ready-to-drink products or nutrient powders to be mixed with liquid, which contain protein, fat and carbohydrates in a balanced ratio, usually also vitamins and minerals. The nutritional value consumed in the diet by Formula products alone is a maximum of 1200 kcal per day, which should lead to a rapid loss of weight in the case of obesity.
Adherence to therapy requires that the change in diet can be permanently integrated into the individual everyday life of the patient. Preferences and lifestyle habits must, therefore, be taken into account when planning therapy.
Bilbiography sources:
Dansinger ML, Gleason JA, Griffith JL, Selker HP, Schaefer EJ (2005) Comparison of the Atkins, Ornish, Weight Watchers, and Zone Diets for weight loss and heart disease risk reduction: a randomized trial. JAMA 293: 43–53
Deutsche Gesellschaft für Ernährung (DGE) (2009) DGE BeratungsStandards. graphoprint Verlag Ruth Schlotter, Koblenz
Deutsche Gesellschaft für Ernährung (DGE), Österreichische Gesellschaft für Ernährung (ÖGE), Schweizerische Gesellschaft für Ernährungsforschung (SGE), Schweizerische Vereinigung für Ernährung (2008) Referenzwerte für die Nährstoffzufuhr. Neuer Umschau Buchverlag, Neustadt/Weinstraße
