{"id":8261,"date":"2020-08-10T17:14:31","date_gmt":"2020-08-10T17:14:31","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/betterme.world\/articles\/?p=8261"},"modified":"2024-12-23T20:04:30","modified_gmt":"2024-12-23T20:04:30","slug":"700-calorie-diet","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/betterme.world\/articles\/700-calorie-diet\/","title":{"rendered":"700-Calorie Diet: A Shortcut to Weight Loss or a Risky Gamble?"},"content":{"rendered":"<div id=\"ez-toc-container\" class=\"ez-toc-v2_0_75 counter-hierarchy ez-toc-counter ez-toc-grey ez-toc-container-direction\">\n<div class=\"ez-toc-title-container\">\n<span class=\"ez-toc-title-toggle\"><\/span><\/div>\n<nav><ul class='ez-toc-list ez-toc-list-level-1 ' ><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-1\" href=\"https:\/\/betterme.world\/articles\/700-calorie-diet\/#What_Is_a_700-Calorie_Diet\" >What Is a 700-Calorie Diet?<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-2\" href=\"https:\/\/betterme.world\/articles\/700-calorie-diet\/#What_Does_700_Calories_Look_Like\" >What Does 700 Calories Look Like?<\/a><ul class='ez-toc-list-level-3' ><li class='ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-3\" href=\"https:\/\/betterme.world\/articles\/700-calorie-diet\/#Tips_for_Sticking_to_the_Diet\" >Tips for Sticking to the Diet<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-4\" href=\"https:\/\/betterme.world\/articles\/700-calorie-diet\/#Challenges_of_Sticking_to_700_Calories\" >Challenges of Sticking to 700 Calories<\/a><\/li><\/ul><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-5\" href=\"https:\/\/betterme.world\/articles\/700-calorie-diet\/#How_Many_Calories_Should_You_Eat_a_Day\" >How Many Calories Should You Eat a Day?<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-6\" href=\"https:\/\/betterme.world\/articles\/700-calorie-diet\/#Why_Does_Caloric_Balance_Matter\" >Why Does Caloric Balance Matter?<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-7\" href=\"https:\/\/betterme.world\/articles\/700-calorie-diet\/#How_Many_Carbs_Do_You_Eat_on_a_700-Calorie_Diet\" >How Many Carbs Do You Eat on a 700-Calorie Diet?<\/a><ul class='ez-toc-list-level-3' ><li class='ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-8\" href=\"https:\/\/betterme.world\/articles\/700-calorie-diet\/#Why_Such_Low_Carbs\" >Why Such Low Carbs?<\/a><\/li><\/ul><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-9\" href=\"https:\/\/betterme.world\/articles\/700-calorie-diet\/#Is_a_700-Calorie_Diet_Really_Effective\" >Is a 700-Calorie Diet Really Effective?<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-10\" href=\"https:\/\/betterme.world\/articles\/700-calorie-diet\/#How_Much_Weight_Can_I_Lose_Eating_700_Calories_a_Day\" >How Much Weight Can I Lose Eating 700 Calories a Day?<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-11\" href=\"https:\/\/betterme.world\/articles\/700-calorie-diet\/#How_Much_Weight_Is_It_Safe_to_Lose\" >How Much Weight Is It Safe to Lose?<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-12\" href=\"https:\/\/betterme.world\/articles\/700-calorie-diet\/#Why_Am_I_Not_Losing_Weight_on_700_Calories_a_Day\" >Why Am I Not Losing Weight on 700 Calories a Day?<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-13\" href=\"https:\/\/betterme.world\/articles\/700-calorie-diet\/#Frequently_Asked_Questions\" >Frequently Asked Questions<\/a><ul class='ez-toc-list-level-3' ><li class='ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-14\" href=\"https:\/\/betterme.world\/articles\/700-calorie-diet\/#Is_a_700-calorie_diet_safe\" >Is a 700-calorie diet safe?<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-15\" href=\"https:\/\/betterme.world\/articles\/700-calorie-diet\/#What_can_I_eat_that_is_700_calories\" >What can I eat that is 700 calories?<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-16\" href=\"https:\/\/betterme.world\/articles\/700-calorie-diet\/#Is_a_700-calorie_deficit_good\" >Is a 700-calorie deficit good?<\/a><\/li><\/ul><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-17\" href=\"https:\/\/betterme.world\/articles\/700-calorie-diet\/#The_Bottom_Line\" >The Bottom Line<\/a><\/li><\/ul><\/nav><\/div>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">The 700-calorie diet is one of those plans that instantly grabs the attention of people who are looking for a rapid solution to weight loss or those who are curious about how it could possibly work. Imagine eating so frugally, but doing it as an adult who may otherwise burn over 2,000 calories daily just to function. It\u2019s extreme, it\u2019s demanding \u2014 but it claims quick results. However, behind these promises lie several questions: Is this really the best way to lose weight? How sustainable is it? And what happens to your body when you cut calories to such a low level?<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span data-sheets-root=\"1\"><a href=\"https:\/\/quiz.betterme.world\/en\/first-page-generated-gender?flow=2196&amp;utm_source=Blog&amp;utm_medium=Blog&amp;utm_campaign=700_Calorie_Diet_\" target=\"_blank\"><video autoplay=\"autoplay\" loop=\"loop\" muted=\"muted\" playsinline=\"playsinline\" width=\"777\"><source src=\"https:\/\/cdn.betterme.world\/articles\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/06\/ezgif.com-gif-to-mp4-2.mp4\" type=\"video\/mp4\" \/><\/video><\/a><\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">For some, the 700-calorie diet may seem like a last resort\u2014one that offers the hope of fast-tracking weight loss for a specific reason, such as preparing for surgery or addressing urgent obesity-related issues. However, it\u2019s important to understand the risks, potential pitfalls, and what exactly you\u2019re signing up for. Let\u2019s break down the ins and outs of this restrictive diet, from what it entails to whether it truly is a healthy approach.<\/span><\/p>\n<h2 style=\"text-align: center;\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"What_Is_a_700-Calorie_Diet\"><\/span><strong>What Is a 700-Calorie Diet?<\/strong><span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">The 700-calorie diet is classified as a very low-calorie diet (VLCD), which means it dramatically reduces daily intake to under 800 calories (<\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/www.sciencedirect.com\/science\/article\/abs\/pii\/B0122266943022869\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">1<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">). For most people, this is a sharp departure from the typical 1,600-3,000 calorie range that\u2019s required for maintaining weight (<\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov\/books\/NBK221839\/\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">2<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">). It\u2019s mainly used in clinical settings for people who need to lose weight rapidly for medical reasons, such as those with severe obesity who are facing surgery or managing critical conditions such as high blood pressure, which would improve with <a href=\"https:\/\/betterme.world\/articles\/metabolism-confusion-meal-plan\/\">weight loss<\/a> (<\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov\/articles\/PMC3940825\/\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">3<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">).<\/span><\/p>\n<p><a href=\"https:\/\/quiz.betterme.world\/en\/first-page-generated-gender?flow=2196&amp;utm_source=Blog&amp;utm_medium=Blog&amp;utm_campaign=700_Calorie_Diet_\"><img decoding=\"async\" class=\"aligncenter size-large wp-image-67761\" src=\"https:\/\/cdn.betterme.world\/articles\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/11\/low-carb-high-protein-meal-plan-1024x576.png\" alt=\"700 Calorie Diet \" width=\"770\" height=\"433\" srcset=\"https:\/\/cdn.betterme.world\/articles\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/11\/low-carb-high-protein-meal-plan.png 1024w, https:\/\/cdn.betterme.world\/articles\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/11\/low-carb-high-protein-meal-plan-300x169.png 300w, https:\/\/cdn.betterme.world\/articles\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/11\/low-carb-high-protein-meal-plan.png 768w, https:\/\/cdn.betterme.world\/articles\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/11\/low-carb-high-protein-meal-plan-1636x920.png 1636w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 770px) 100vw, 770px\" \/><\/a><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">This diet is not a free-for-all\u2014it&#8217;s tightly structured, and should only be done under the supervision of a healthcare professional. The reason? Consuming so few calories can trigger a host of physiological changes as the body shifts into survival mode. At this level of restriction, every calorie has to count. Meals are meticulously planned to include protein sources such as lean meats or eggs, non-starchy vegetables, and a tiny portion of healthy fats to ensure some nutritional balance.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">However, the reality is that a diet like this isn\u2019t meant for everyone:<\/span><\/p>\n<ul>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><b>It\u2019s Short-Term<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">: Designed for temporary use only, not a long-term lifestyle.<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><b>Not Without Risks<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">: Without professional oversight, it can lead to muscle loss, nutritional deficiencies, severe fatigue, and other dangerous side effects.<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><b>Quick Result-Focused Plan<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">: It isn\u2019t about slow, sustainable weight loss, but about achieving a fast calorie deficit for specific health needs.<\/span><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">While it may sound like a quick fix, it&#8217;s important to recognize that cutting calories to such extremes has implications for how your body functions daily.<\/span><\/p>\n<h2 style=\"text-align: center;\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"What_Does_700_Calories_Look_Like\"><\/span><strong>What Does 700 Calories Look Like?<\/strong><span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Living on 700 calories a day requires precise meal planning, as you need to make every single calorie count. Here\u2019s an example of what a day may look like on this plan:<\/span><\/p>\n<ul>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><b>Breakfast<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">: One boiled egg (78 calories) paired with half a grapefruit (52 calories).<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><b>Lunch<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">: A small salad with mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, and 3 ounces of grilled chicken breast (142 calories).<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><b>Dinner<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">: A small fillet of baked salmon (220 calories) with steamed broccoli (50 calories).<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><b>Snack<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">: A handful of cucumber slices (20 calories).<\/span><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">With such a meal plan, it adds up to around 700 calories\u2014barely enough for the body\u2019s basic functions. This plan focuses heavily on protein to help maintain muscle mass and uses low-calorie, nutrient-dense vegetables to provide fiber and some vitamins. However, the portions are incredibly small, which makes it difficult to feel full.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><strong>If you wish to free yourself from all the extra pounds that have been weighing you down for way too long, <a class=\"in-cell-link\" href=\"https:\/\/quiz.betterme.world\/en\/first-page-generated-gender?flow=2196&amp;utm_source=Blog&amp;utm_medium=Blog&amp;utm_campaign=700_Calorie_Diet_\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">start using the BetterMe: Health Coaching app<\/a> and overhaul your entire life!<\/strong><\/p>\n<h3 style=\"text-align: center;\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Tips_for_Sticking_to_the_Diet\"><\/span><b>Tips for Sticking to the Diet<\/b><span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n<ul>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><b>Plan Ahead<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">: Meal prep is your best friend. Cook meals in advance to avoid the temptation of reaching for high-calorie foods.<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><b>Focus on Hydration<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">: Drinking water can help curb hunger and keep you feeling fuller between meals (<\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/www.health.harvard.edu\/blog\/does-drinking-water-before-meals-really-help-you-lose-weight-202402203018\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">4<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">).<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><b>Protein Power<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">: Opt for protein-rich foods to keep you satisfied longer and minimize muscle loss (<\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/www.health.harvard.edu\/nutrition\/high-protein-snacks-to-build-muscle-and-keep-hunger-at-bay\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">5<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">).<\/span><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Even with these strategies, many people find it difficult to maintain this level of restriction. Hunger, low energy, and cravings can make it very difficult to stick with the plan, which is why it&#8217;s often only used as a short-term solution.<\/span><\/p>\n<h3 style=\"text-align: center;\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Challenges_of_Sticking_to_700_Calories\"><\/span><b>Challenges of Sticking to 700 Calories<\/b><span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n<ul>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><b>Constant Hunger<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">: Even with high-protein meals, you\u2019re likely to feel hungry quite often.<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><b>Cravings<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">: With carbs and fats limited, cravings for sugar and comfort foods can become seriously intense.<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><b>Low Energy Levels<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">: Without enough calories, simple tasks can feel exhausting, which can impact your day-to-day productivity.<\/span><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">It\u2019s clear that this diet requires a lot of discipline and mental fortitude, and even then, it can be physically and emotionally draining.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><em><strong>Read more:<\/strong> <a href=\"https:\/\/betterme.world\/articles\/7-day-diet-to-lose-10-pounds\/\">7-Day Diet To Lose 10 Pounds: Diving Into Why Rapid Weight Loss Is A Pipe Dream In And Of Itself<\/a><\/em><\/p>\n<h2 style=\"text-align: center;\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"How_Many_Calories_Should_You_Eat_a_Day\"><\/span><strong>How Many Calories Should You Eat a Day?<\/strong><span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">A typical adult\u2019s caloric needs are determined by several factors, such as age, sex, weight, and physical activity. Here\u2019s a general breakdown (<\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov\/books\/NBK221839\/\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">2<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">):<\/span><\/p>\n<ul>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><b>Women<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">: Require approximately 1,600 to 2,400 calories daily, depending on their age and activity level.<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><b>Men<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">: Usually need between 2,000 and 3,000 calories to maintain their weight.<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><b>Children and Teens<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">: Need anywhere from 1,000 to 2,200 calories or more as they grow.<\/span><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">A 700-calorie diet falls drastically short of these recommendations. Even the most sedentary adults are advised not to drop below 1,200 calories for women and 1,500 calories for men, as going lower than this can slow down your metabolism. A slower metabolism means your body burns fewer calories at rest, which makes it harder to lose weight over time and easier to regain it when the diet ends (<\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/www.health.harvard.edu\/staying-healthy\/the-truth-about-metabolism\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">6<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">).<\/span><\/p>\n<p><a href=\"https:\/\/quiz.betterme.world\/en\/first-page-generated-gender?flow=2196&amp;utm_source=Blog&amp;utm_medium=Blog&amp;utm_campaign=700_Calorie_Diet_\"><img decoding=\"async\" class=\"aligncenter size-large wp-image-67887\" src=\"https:\/\/cdn.betterme.world\/articles\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/11\/7-day-pescatarian-meal-plan-1024x576.png\" alt=\"700 Calorie Diet \" width=\"770\" height=\"433\" srcset=\"https:\/\/cdn.betterme.world\/articles\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/11\/7-day-pescatarian-meal-plan.png 1024w, https:\/\/cdn.betterme.world\/articles\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/11\/7-day-pescatarian-meal-plan-300x169.png 300w, https:\/\/cdn.betterme.world\/articles\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/11\/7-day-pescatarian-meal-plan.png 768w, https:\/\/cdn.betterme.world\/articles\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/11\/7-day-pescatarian-meal-plan-1636x920.png 1636w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 770px) 100vw, 770px\" \/><\/a><\/p>\n<h2 style=\"text-align: center;\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Why_Does_Caloric_Balance_Matter\"><\/span><strong>Why Does Caloric Balance Matter?<\/strong><span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n<ul>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><b>Sustainable Weight Loss<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">: A caloric deficit of 500-1,000 calories daily leads to a safer, more gradual weight loss of 1-2 pounds per week (<\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/www.nutrition.org.uk\/health-conditions\/obesity-healthy-weight-loss-and-nutrition\/\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">7<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">).<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><b>Preserving Muscle Mass<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">: With moderate calorie cuts, you\u2019re equipped to maintain lean body mass while still losing fat.<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><b>Better Energy Levels<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">: Eating enough calories helps sustain energy for daily activities and exercise.<\/span><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">In comparison, a 700-calorie diet doesn\u2019t offer room for this balance, which can lead to faster weight loss, but with more potential downsides.<\/span><\/p>\n<h2 style=\"text-align: center;\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"How_Many_Carbs_Do_You_Eat_on_a_700-Calorie_Diet\"><\/span><strong>How Many Carbs Do You Eat on a 700-Calorie Diet?<\/strong><span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Carbs are often minimized on very <a href=\"https:\/\/betterme.world\/articles\/low-calorie-high-protein-foods-for-weight-loss\/\">low-calorie diets<\/a> to make room for more protein as it helps to preserve muscle mass (<\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/www.sciencedirect.com\/science\/article\/pii\/S2161831322006810#:~:text=Together%2C%20these%20results%20suggest%20that,adverse%20effects%20on%20glucose%20metabolism.\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">8<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">). On a 700-calorie diet, you may only consume 20-60 grams of carbohydrates per day, which is significantly less than the average diet that includes 225-325 grams of carbs (<\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov\/books\/NBK537084\/\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">9<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">, <\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/healthcare.utah.edu\/sites\/g\/files\/zrelqx136\/files\/media\/documents\/2023\/Dietary_Guidelines_for_Americans_2020-2025-compressed_1.pdf\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">10<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">).<\/span><\/p>\n<h3 style=\"text-align: center;\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Why_Such_Low_Carbs\"><\/span><strong>Why Such Low Carbs?<\/strong><span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n<ul>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><b>Energy Efficiency<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">: With so few calories, focusing on protein helps maintain muscle, while fats provide longer-lasting energy.<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><b>Stable Blood Sugar<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">: A lower carb intake may help prevent blood sugar spikes and crashes, which may reduce cravings, making it slightly easier to manage hunger (<\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov\/articles\/PMC8500369\/\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">11<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">).<\/span><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">However, the low-carb approach isn\u2019t without its drawbacks:<\/span><\/p>\n<ul>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><b>Potential Fatigue<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">: Carbs are the body\u2019s preferred source of energy, so cutting them can lead to low energy levels and brain fog.<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><b>Nutrient Gaps<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">: Carbohydrates such as fruits and whole grains also offer important vitamins and minerals, which are difficult to replace on such a restricted diet.<\/span><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">It\u2019s a delicate balance, and many people find that the trade-offs aren\u2019t worth the constant battle against fatigue and cravings.<\/span><\/p>\n\n    <section class=\"ad-select-gender\">\n        <div class=\"ad-select-gender-wrapper\">\n            <img class=\"ad-select-gender-image\" alt=\"MaleImage\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"200\" height=\"297\" src=\"https:\/\/betterme.world\/articles\/wp-content\/themes\/gridlove-child\/assets\/img\/ad\/MaleImage.webp\">\n    \n            <div class=\"ad-select-gender-text mobile-hide\">\n                <div class=\"ad-select-gender-desc\">Get your <span class=\"green f-600\">personal plan<\/span> according to your age and BMI<\/div>\n                <div class=\"ad-select-gender-title f-600\">\n                    Select your gender\n                <\/div>\n                <a href=\"https:\/\/quiz.betterme.world\/first-page-generated-gender?flow=2196&utm_source=Blog&utm_medium=Blog&utm_campaign=Shortcod2\" class=\"btn-ad btn-green\" target=\"_blank\">Male<\/a>\n                <a href=\"https:\/\/quiz.betterme.world\/first-page-generated-gender?flow=2196&utm_source=Blog&utm_medium=Blog&utm_campaign=Shortcod2\" class=\"btn-ad btn-green\" target=\"_blank\">Female<\/a>\n            <\/div>\n    \n            <img class=\"ad-select-gender-image\" alt=\"FemaleImage\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"200\" height=\"297\" src=\"https:\/\/betterme.world\/articles\/wp-content\/themes\/gridlove-child\/assets\/img\/ad\/FemaleImage.webp\">\n        <\/div>\n    \n        <div class=\"ad-select-gender-text desktop-hide mobile-block\">\n          <div class=\"ad-select-gender-desc\">Get your <span class=\"green f-600\">personal plan<\/span> according to your age and BMI<\/div>\n          <div class=\"ad-select-gender-title f-600\">\n            Select your gender\n          <\/div>\n          <a href=\"https:\/\/quiz.betterme.world\/first-page-generated-gender?flow=2196&utm_source=Blog&utm_medium=Blog&utm_campaign=Shortcod2\" class=\"btn-ad btn-green\" target=\"_blank\">Male<\/a>\n          <a href=\"https:\/\/quiz.betterme.world\/first-page-generated-gender?flow=2196&utm_source=Blog&utm_medium=Blog&utm_campaign=Shortcod2\" class=\"btn-ad btn-green\" target=\"_blank\">Female<\/a>\n        <\/div>\n    <\/section>\n<h2 style=\"text-align: center;\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Is_a_700-Calorie_Diet_Really_Effective\"><\/span><strong>Is a 700-Calorie Diet Really Effective?<\/strong><span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Yes, it can be effective for rapid weight loss, but it certainly isn\u2019t a long-term strategy. When you cut down to merely 700 calories, the calorie deficit is so extreme that your body is forced to burn through its reserves. Initially, this means rapid weight loss, which can be encouraging. But effectiveness isn\u2019t just about what happens on the scale.<\/span><\/p>\n<ul>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><b>Water Weight Loss<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">: Much of the weight lost in the first week is due to water loss as glycogen stores deplete (<\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov\/books\/NBK534877\/\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">12<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">).<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><b>Muscle Breakdown<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">: Without enough protein and calories, the body starts using muscle tissue for fuel, which can slow down metabolism and result in the loss of physical performance over time(<\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov\/books\/NBK534877\/\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">12<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">).<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><b>Metabolic Slowdown<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">: Prolonged restriction may signal to the body that it\u2019s in a famine state, causing it to conserve energy and burn fewer calories at rest (<\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/www.todaysdietitian.com\/newarchives\/0124p38.shtml\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">13<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">).<\/span><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">It\u2019s important to understand that while a 700-calorie diet may help you achieve your short-term goals, it\u2019s not designed for long-term maintenance. Once you increase your caloric intake again, it\u2019s common that you\u2019ll regain much of the weight.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><strong>BetterMe: Health Coaching app helps you achieve your body goals with ease and efficiency by helping to choose proper meal plans and effective workouts. Start using our app and you will <a class=\"in-cell-link\" href=\"https:\/\/quiz.betterme.world\/en\/first-page-generated-gender?flow=2196&amp;utm_source=Blog&amp;utm_medium=Blog&amp;utm_campaign=700_Calorie_Diet_\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">see good results in a short time.<\/a><\/strong><\/p>\n<h2 style=\"text-align: center;\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"How_Much_Weight_Can_I_Lose_Eating_700_Calories_a_Day\"><\/span><strong>How Much Weight Can I Lose Eating 700 Calories a Day?<\/strong><span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">The potential for weight loss on a 700-calorie diet is substantial, especially initially. Here\u2019s what you can expect (<\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/www.sciencedirect.com\/science\/article\/abs\/pii\/B0122266943022869\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">1<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">):<\/span><\/p>\n<ul>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><b>First Week<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">: Rapid weight loss, often 3-5 pounds, largely due to water loss.<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><b>Following Weeks<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">: Average weight loss can slow to 1-3 pounds per week as your body adapts.<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><b>Over 12 Weeks<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">: Depending on your starting weight and adherence, it\u2019s possible to lose between 20-40 pounds.<\/span><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">However, not all this weight loss is fat\u2014there\u2019s often significant muscle loss too, which can make it difficult to keep the weight off. And as your metabolism adjusts to the lower intake, continuing to lose weight becomes more difficult.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><b>Cautionary Note<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">: Sustaining this diet for more than a few weeks without medical supervision can lead to nutrient deficiencies, extreme fatigue, and a compromised immune system. Please seek advice from a medical professional before proceeding.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n<p><a href=\"https:\/\/quiz.betterme.world\/en\/first-page-generated-gender?flow=2196&amp;utm_source=Blog&amp;utm_medium=Blog&amp;utm_campaign=700_Calorie_Diet_\"><img decoding=\"async\" class=\"aligncenter size-large wp-image-66846\" src=\"https:\/\/cdn.betterme.world\/articles\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/11\/2000-calorie-meal-plan-high-protein-1024x576.png\" alt=\"700 Calorie Diet \" width=\"770\" height=\"433\" srcset=\"https:\/\/cdn.betterme.world\/articles\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/11\/2000-calorie-meal-plan-high-protein.png 1024w, https:\/\/cdn.betterme.world\/articles\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/11\/2000-calorie-meal-plan-high-protein-300x169.png 300w, https:\/\/cdn.betterme.world\/articles\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/11\/2000-calorie-meal-plan-high-protein.png 768w, https:\/\/cdn.betterme.world\/articles\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/11\/2000-calorie-meal-plan-high-protein-1636x920.png 1636w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 770px) 100vw, 770px\" \/><\/a><\/p>\n<h2 style=\"text-align: center;\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"How_Much_Weight_Is_It_Safe_to_Lose\"><\/span><strong>How Much Weight Is It Safe to Lose?<\/strong><span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Health experts typically recommend a weight loss of 1-2 pounds per week. This is because a moderate <a href=\"https:\/\/betterme.world\/articles\/why-am-i-not-losing-weight-in-a-calorie-deficit\/\">calorie deficit<\/a> allows for steady fat loss while preserving muscle. Gradual weight loss is less likely to disrupt your metabolism and helps establish habits that support long-term success. Here\u2019s why slower is better:<\/span><\/p>\n<ul>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><b>Maintains Muscle Mass<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">: Muscle burns more calories at rest than fat, so preserving muscle is the key to keeping metabolism strong. Muscle is also important for physical ability and quality of life.<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><b>Reduces Risk of Gallstones<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">: Rapid weight loss increases the likelihood of developing gallstones, a painful side effect (<\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/www.utica.edu\/hr\/wellness\/DietingandGallstones2002.pdf\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">14<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">).<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><b>Sustainable Habits<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">: Slow changes allow your body to adapt and maintain the weight loss over time. They help create routines you can stick to long-term.\u00a0\u00a0<\/span><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p><em><strong>Read more:<\/strong> <a href=\"https:\/\/betterme.world\/articles\/pro-and-cons-of-intermittent-fasting\/\">Pros and Cons of Intermittent Fasting: What Does the Science Say?<\/a><\/em><\/p>\n<h2 style=\"text-align: center;\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Why_Am_I_Not_Losing_Weight_on_700_Calories_a_Day\"><\/span><strong>Why Am I Not Losing Weight on 700 Calories a Day?<\/strong><span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">It seems counterintuitive, but weight loss can stall, even with an incredibly low intake such as 700 calories. Here\u2019s why:<\/span><\/p>\n<ol>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><b>Metabolic Slowdown<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">: When you significantly reduce your calorie intake, your body may enter &#8220;starvation mode&#8221;, slowing down your metabolism to conserve energy. This means your body burns fewer calories, which makes weight loss more difficult (<\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/www.sciencedirect.com\/science\/article\/abs\/pii\/S0531556519308642\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">15<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">).<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><b>Muscle Loss<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">: Without enough protein, your body may use muscle for energy, further reducing your resting metabolic rate. Muscle burns more calories than fat, so less muscle means fewer calories burned daily (<\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov\/articles\/PMC10552824\/#:~:text=Thus%2C%20individuals%20who%20already%20have,sleep%20disruption%2C%20etc.).\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">16<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">).<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><b>Water Retention<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">: Stress from caloric restriction can increase cortisol levels, leading to water retention and bloating, which can mask fat loss on the scale (<\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov\/articles\/PMC2895000\/\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">17<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">).<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><b>Nutrient Imbalance<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">: Deficiencies in key <a href=\"https:\/\/betterme.world\/articles\/essential-vitamins-for-women\/\">vitamins<\/a> and minerals can disrupt metabolism and hormone function, which makes weight loss less efficient (<\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov\/articles\/PMC7019700\/\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">18<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">).<\/span><\/li>\n<\/ol>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Breaking through this plateau may require slightly increasing your calorie intake (with more protein), introducing light resistance training to build muscle, and focusing on stress management to help the body recover. It\u2019s always best to seek professional guidance when dealing with such extreme diets.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><a href=\"https:\/\/quiz.betterme.world\/en\/first-page-generated-gender?flow=2196&amp;utm_source=Blog&amp;utm_medium=Blog&amp;utm_campaign=700_Calorie_Diet_\"><img decoding=\"async\" class=\"aligncenter size-large wp-image-66849\" src=\"https:\/\/cdn.betterme.world\/articles\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/11\/low-calorie-high-protein-meal-plan-1024x576.png\" alt=\"700 Calorie Diet \" width=\"770\" height=\"433\" srcset=\"https:\/\/cdn.betterme.world\/articles\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/11\/low-calorie-high-protein-meal-plan.png 1024w, https:\/\/cdn.betterme.world\/articles\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/11\/low-calorie-high-protein-meal-plan-300x169.png 300w, https:\/\/cdn.betterme.world\/articles\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/11\/low-calorie-high-protein-meal-plan.png 768w, https:\/\/cdn.betterme.world\/articles\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/11\/low-calorie-high-protein-meal-plan-1636x920.png 1636w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 770px) 100vw, 770px\" \/><\/a><\/p>\n<p><span data-sheets-root=\"1\"><h2><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Frequently_Asked_Questions\"><\/span><b>Frequently Asked Questions<\/b><span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2><ul><li><h3><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Is_a_700-calorie_diet_safe\"><\/span><strong>Is a 700-calorie diet safe?<\/strong><span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3><\/li><\/ul><p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">A 700-calorie diet can be risky and is generally only safe when followed in the short term under medical supervision. This is because it can lead to nutrient deficiencies, muscle loss, extreme fatigue, and other dangerous side effects.<\/span><\/p>\n<ul><li><h3><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"What_can_I_eat_that_is_700_calories\"><\/span><strong>What can I eat that is 700 calories?<\/strong><span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3><\/li><\/ul><p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">A 700-calorie meal plan may include small portions such as a boiled egg, half a grapefruit, a salad with grilled chicken, a small salmon fillet with steamed vegetables, and cucumber slices as a snack.<\/span><\/p>\n<ul><li><h3><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Is_a_700-calorie_deficit_good\"><\/span><strong>Is a 700-calorie deficit good?<\/strong><span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3><\/li><\/ul><p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Yes, a 700-calorie deficit can support steady weight loss if it\u2019s done carefully, helping you lose approximately 1-1.5 pounds per week. This means eating 700 calories fewer than your body burns each day, which isn\u2019t the same as eating only 700 calories.<\/span><\/p>\n\n<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span data-sheets-root=\"1\"><a href=\"https:\/\/quiz.betterme.world\/en\/first-page-generated-gender?flow=2196&amp;utm_source=Blog&amp;utm_medium=Blog&amp;utm_campaign=700_Calorie_Diet_\" target=\"_blank\"><video autoplay=\"autoplay\" loop=\"loop\" muted=\"muted\" playsinline=\"playsinline\" width=\"777\"><source src=\"https:\/\/cdn.betterme.world\/articles\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/06\/ezgif.com-gif-to-mp4-1.mp4\" type=\"video\/mp4\" \/><\/video><\/a><\/span><\/p>\n<h2><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"The_Bottom_Line\"><\/span><strong>The Bottom Line<\/strong><span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">The 700-calorie diet offers a quick route to weight loss, but it comes with serious risks. While it may deliver rapid results, the potential for muscle loss, metabolic slowdown, and nutrient deficiencies makes it unsustainable for most people. Aiming for a gradual reduction of 1-2 pounds per week is generally a safer and more effective approach. If you\u2019re considering such a restrictive diet, always consult a healthcare professional to ensure it\u2019s suitable for your health needs and goals.<\/span><\/p>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"<p>The 700-calorie diet is one of those plans that instantly grabs the attention of people who are looking for a rapid solution to weight loss or those who are curious about how it could possibly work. Imagine eating so frugally, but doing it as an adult who may otherwise burn over 2,000 calories daily just [&hellip;]<\/p>\n","protected":false},"author":59,"featured_media":68451,"comment_status":"closed","ping_status":"closed","sticky":false,"template":"","format":"standard","meta":{"_acf_changed":false,"footnotes":""},"categories":[67,172,75],"tags":[],"coauthors":[211,87],"class_list":["post-8261","post","type-post","status-publish","format-standard","has-post-thumbnail","hentry","category-diets","category-meal-plans","category-weight-loss"],"acf":[],"yoast_head":"<!-- This site is optimized with the Yoast SEO Premium plugin v20.2.1 (Yoast SEO v25.4) - https:\/\/yoast.com\/wordpress\/plugins\/seo\/ -->\n<title>700-Calorie Diet: A Shortcut to Weight Loss or a Risky Gamble? - BetterMe<\/title>\n<meta name=\"description\" content=\"Explore all you need to know about \u2605 700 CALORIE DIET \u27a4 \u2014 the risks, the effectiveness, and tips for short-term weight loss.\" \/>\n<meta name=\"robots\" content=\"index, follow, max-snippet:-1, max-image-preview:large, max-video-preview:-1\" \/>\n<link rel=\"canonical\" href=\"https:\/\/betterme.world\/articles\/700-calorie-diet\/\" \/>\n<meta property=\"og:locale\" content=\"en_US\" \/>\n<meta property=\"og:type\" content=\"article\" \/>\n<meta property=\"og:title\" content=\"700-Calorie Diet: A Shortcut to Weight Loss or a Risky Gamble?\" \/>\n<meta property=\"og:description\" content=\"Explore all you need to know about \u2605 700 CALORIE DIET \u27a4 \u2014 the risks, the effectiveness, and tips for short-term weight loss.\" \/>\n<meta property=\"og:url\" content=\"https:\/\/betterme.world\/articles\/700-calorie-diet\/\" \/>\n<meta property=\"og:site_name\" content=\"BetterMe Blog\" \/>\n<meta property=\"article:publisher\" content=\"https:\/\/www.facebook.com\/betterme.health.coaching\" \/>\n<meta property=\"article:modified_time\" content=\"2024-12-23T20:04:30+00:00\" \/>\n<meta property=\"og:image\" content=\"https:\/\/betterme.world\/articles\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/08\/439-700-calorie-diet-1024x640.png\" \/>\n\t<meta property=\"og:image:width\" content=\"1024\" \/>\n\t<meta property=\"og:image:height\" content=\"640\" \/>\n\t<meta property=\"og:image:type\" content=\"image\/png\" \/>\n<meta name=\"author\" content=\"Sri R, Kristen Fleming, RD\" \/>\n<meta name=\"twitter:card\" content=\"summary_large_image\" \/>\n<meta name=\"twitter:creator\" content=\"@betterme\" \/>\n<meta name=\"twitter:site\" content=\"@betterme\" \/>\n<meta name=\"twitter:label1\" content=\"Written by\" \/>\n\t<meta name=\"twitter:data1\" content=\"Sri R, Kristen Fleming, RD\" \/>\n\t<meta name=\"twitter:label2\" content=\"Est. reading time\" \/>\n\t<meta name=\"twitter:data2\" content=\"10 minutes\" \/>\n<script type=\"application\/ld+json\" class=\"yoast-schema-graph\">{\"@context\":\"https:\/\/schema.org\",\"@graph\":[{\"@type\":\"Article\",\"@id\":\"https:\/\/betterme.world\/articles\/700-calorie-diet\/#article\",\"isPartOf\":{\"@id\":\"https:\/\/betterme.world\/articles\/700-calorie-diet\/\"},\"author\":{\"name\":\"Sri R\",\"@id\":\"https:\/\/betterme.world\/articles\/#\/schema\/person\/be07303344b010ded280af7783df1ad5\"},\"headline\":\"700-Calorie Diet: A Shortcut to Weight Loss or a Risky Gamble?\",\"dateModified\":\"2024-12-23T20:04:30+00:00\",\"mainEntityOfPage\":{\"@id\":\"https:\/\/betterme.world\/articles\/700-calorie-diet\/\"},\"wordCount\":2087,\"publisher\":{\"@id\":\"https:\/\/betterme.world\/articles\/#organization\"},\"image\":{\"@id\":\"https:\/\/betterme.world\/articles\/700-calorie-diet\/#primaryimage\"},\"thumbnailUrl\":\"https:\/\/cdn.betterme.world\/articles\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/08\/439-700-calorie-diet.png\",\"articleSection\":[\"Diets\",\"Meal Plans\",\"Weight Loss\"],\"inLanguage\":\"en-US\",\"articleBody\":\"<span style=\\\"font-weight: 400;\\\">The 700-calorie diet is one of those plans that instantly grabs the attention of people who are looking for a rapid solution to weight loss or those who are curious about how it could possibly work. Imagine eating so frugally, but doing it as an adult who may otherwise burn over 2,000 calories daily just to function. It\u2019s extreme, it\u2019s demanding \u2014 but it claims quick results. However, behind these promises lie several questions: Is this really the best way to lose weight? How sustainable is it? And what happens to your body when you cut calories to such a low level?<\/span>\\r\\n\\r\\n<span data-sheets-root=\\\"1\\\"><\/span>\\r\\n\\r\\n<span style=\\\"font-weight: 400;\\\">For some, the 700-calorie diet may seem like a last resort\u2014one that offers the hope of fast-tracking weight loss for a specific reason, such as preparing for surgery or addressing urgent obesity-related issues. However, it\u2019s important to understand the risks, potential pitfalls, and what exactly you\u2019re signing up for. Let\u2019s break down the ins and outs of this restrictive diet, from what it entails to whether it truly is a healthy approach.<\/span>\\r\\n<h2 style=\\\"text-align: center;\\\"><strong>What Is a 700-Calorie Diet?<\/strong><\/h2>\\r\\n<span style=\\\"font-weight: 400;\\\">The 700-calorie diet is classified as a very low-calorie diet (VLCD), which means it dramatically reduces daily intake to under 800 calories (<\/span><a href=\\\"https:\/\/www.sciencedirect.com\/science\/article\/abs\/pii\/B0122266943022869\\\"><span style=\\\"font-weight: 400;\\\">1<\/span><\/a><span style=\\\"font-weight: 400;\\\">). For most people, this is a sharp departure from the typical 1,600-3,000 calorie range that\u2019s required for maintaining weight (<\/span><a href=\\\"https:\/\/www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov\/books\/NBK221839\/\\\"><span style=\\\"font-weight: 400;\\\">2<\/span><\/a><span style=\\\"font-weight: 400;\\\">). 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Her own journey with Nephrotic Syndrome, an immunodeficiency disorder that affects the kidneys, encouraged her to turn towards a cleaner diet, an active routine, and a healthier life in general. When she's not saving delectable DIY recipes on Instagram, you'll probably find her daydreaming ( and organizing) her next getaway. 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Sri is a former tennis player, an amateur badminton player, and a ping-pong novice.","url":"https:\/\/betterme.world\/articles\/author\/sri-r\/"}]}},"_links":{"self":[{"href":"https:\/\/betterme.world\/articles\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/8261","targetHints":{"allow":["GET"]}}],"collection":[{"href":"https:\/\/betterme.world\/articles\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts"}],"about":[{"href":"https:\/\/betterme.world\/articles\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/types\/post"}],"author":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/betterme.world\/articles\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/users\/59"}],"replies":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/betterme.world\/articles\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/comments?post=8261"}],"version-history":[{"count":2,"href":"https:\/\/betterme.world\/articles\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/8261\/revisions"}],"predecessor-version":[{"id":68452,"href":"https:\/\/betterme.world\/articles\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/8261\/revisions\/68452"}],"wp:featuredmedia":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/betterme.world\/articles\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media\/68451"}],"wp:attachment":[{"href":"https:\/\/betterme.world\/articles\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media?parent=8261"}],"wp:term":[{"taxonomy":"category","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/betterme.world\/articles\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/categories?post=8261"},{"taxonomy":"post_tag","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/betterme.world\/articles\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/tags?post=8261"},{"taxonomy":"author","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/betterme.world\/articles\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/coauthors?post=8261"}],"curies":[{"name":"wp","href":"https:\/\/api.w.org\/{rel}","templated":true}]}}