Dr. Now Diet Plan: Who Can Benefit & How to Do It

Dr. Younan Nowzaradan, or better known as known as “Dr. Now,” is a  renowned bariatric surgeon based in Houston, Texas. He has gained widespread fame through his appearances on the reality TV show “My 600-Lb Life,” where he helps severely obese individuals embark on remarkable weight loss journeys through his expertise in bariatric surgery and the celebrated Dr. Now Diet.

Here’s a general overview of the famous Dr. Now diet plan; exploring its principles, target audience, potential drawbacks, and dietary guidelines.

What is the Dr. Now diet?

The Dr. Now Diet, often referred to as the “1200 calorie diet,” is the pre-surgery meal plan that Dr. Now prescribes to his severely obese patients.

It’s a highly restrictive, low-calorie, low-carb, and low-fat regimen designed to jumpstart rapid weight loss in a short period.

Who can follow the Dr. Now Diet?

The Dr. Now Diet is meticulously designed for individuals grappling with severe obesity, often facing life-threatening health issues due to their weight. This diet plan is not a one-size-fits-all solution but rather a specialized approach aimed at promoting substantial and sustainable weight loss in those who have struggled with obesity for an extended period.

It’s crucial to understand that the Dr. Now Diet is not a general weight-loss plan for the public. It’s a medical intervention intended for individuals with extreme obesity undergoing weight-loss surgery under Dr. Now’s direct supervision.

What to eat and what to avoid on the Dr. Now Diet?

Here’s a breakdown of what to include and avoid on the Dr. Now Diet.

Dr. Now’s approved foods

• Lean protein sources like chicken, turkey, fish, and lean cuts of beef or pork
• Whole grains like brown rice, quinoa, and whole-grain bread.
• Non-starchy vegetables like broccoli, green beans, spinach, asparagus
• Leafy greens
• Fresh fruits, but in moderation due to their natural sugar content.
• Healthy fats from sources like olive oil, nuts, and avocados.
• Low-fat dairy products like plain yogurt or cheese (in limited quantities).

Dr. Now’s forbidden foods

• Sugary drinks: Soda, juice, sports drinks
• Refined carbohydrates: White bread, pasta, rice, pastries
• Fried foods: French fries, onion rings, fried chicken
• Processed foods: Deli meats, packaged snacks, frozen meals
• High-fat dairy: Cheese, whole milk

The allowed foods should be consumed in a total of 1200 calories per day, preferably divided into 3 meals.

What are the downsides of the Dr. Now diet?

• Extreme calorie restriction: 1200 calories is significantly below the recommended daily intake for most adults, potentially leading to fatigue, nutrient deficiencies, and muscle loss.
• Unsustainable in the long term: The restrictive nature makes it challenging to maintain beyond the pre-surgery period, increasing the risk of yo-yo dieting.
• Not suitable for everyone: Individuals with certain medical conditions, pregnant or breastfeeding women, and children should avoid this diet.
• Psychological impact: The strict rules and limited food choices can be emotionally taxing and lead to unhealthy eating habits in the long run.

Dr. Now diet plan book

While Dr. Now hasn’t published an official diet book, several unofficial compilations of his recommendations exist. Approach these with caution and remember, consulting a qualified healthcare professional for personalized guidance is crucial.

To sum up

Dr. Now diet is a very strict eating pattern and is only for people who’ll go under bariatric surgery, so it is not suitable for everyone. It should only be applied under the supervision of a healthcare professional.