Table 3-2.–Sample High Calorie-High Protein Diet-Continued

Table 3-2.–Sample High Calorie-High Protein Diet-Continued Low Calorie Low calorie diets are used in the treatment of obesity, but they may also be used to control weight in medical conditions such as arthritis, hypertension, diabetes, cardiac disease, or hypo- thyroidism. A loss of 1 to 2 pounds a week is a medically acceptable reduction in weight. Low calorie diets consist of 800 to 1800 calories per day. A sample 1200 calorie diet is shown in table 3-3. Calorie levels are determined by physicians and dietitians to help meet specific individual patient weight loss goals. The daily intake of proteins should be at least .8 g/kg of standard body weight. Supplemental vitamins may be ordered if the prescribed diet is less than 1200 calories. Patients on low calorie diets should be in- structed by the dietitian (if available) or other medical personnel knowledgeable in proper eating habits. The dietitian conducts patient interviews to learn the patient’s eating behavior, usual portions, preparation of foods, meal patterns, nutritional adequacy, exercise, and so forth. Individual pro- grams should then be recommended to assist patients to attain and maintain their ideal weight. The Handbook of Clinical Dietetics published by the American Dietetic Association, lists the formula for determining ideal body weight as follows. For females, the basic weight for 5 feet is 100 pounds. Add 5 pounds for every inch over 5 feet. For males, the basic weight for 5 feet is 106 pounds, with 6 pounds added for every inch over 5 feet. Adjustments must be made for body build. Reduce desired weight by 10 percent for a small frame; increase it by 10 percent for a large frame. Total caloric requirements are based on ideal body weight plus activity. 3-8