Safety and effectiveness of weight reduction using a very-low-calorie formulated food.

Careful medical and laboratory monitoring of 27 subjects during a 28-day use of a 330-calorie (Cal)/day liquid formula, with weight loss averaging 9.1 kg (range, 3.2 to 19.1 kg), included a 22-factor automated blood chemistry analysis, BP, hematology, urine analysis, lipid profile, delayed cutaneous hypersensitivity, differential cell count, ECG, and Holter monitoring. Results suggest that very-low-calorie diets can be an effective and safe means of substantial weight reduction. Cautions for specific individuals are noted. The possible beneficial effects on hypertension and on serum cholesterol and triglycerides levels are discussed.