Important Health & Safety Information

Very Low-Calorie Diets (VLCDs) and Total Diet Replacement (TDR) programmes are structured, nutritionally complete plans designed for adults with overweight or obesity.

They are intended as a short-term, structured intervention and should not replace long-term healthy lifestyle habits.

These plans are not suitable for everyone.

If you have a medical condition or take prescribed medication, you should seek medical advice before starting.

📏 Who Are These Plans Suitable For?

VLCD and TDR programmes are generally intended for adults with:

• A BMI of 30 or above

• A BMI of 27 or above with weight-related health conditions

They are not designed for individuals at a healthy BMI unless advised and supervised by a healthcare professional.

⚠️ You Must Speak to Your GP Before Starting If You:

• Take prescription medication

• Have diabetes (Type 1 or Type 2)

• Have high blood pressure

• Have a history of gout

• Have epilepsy

• Have thyroid disorders

• Have kidney or liver disease

• Have gallstones or a history of gallbladder problems

• Have a history of eating disorders

• Have recently had surgery

• Are pregnant or breastfeeding

🩺 Specific Conditions

This guidance is general information only and does not replace medical advice.

🍬 Diabetes

Type 1 Diabetes
A VLCD or Total Diet Replacement plan is not suitable unless managed directly by your specialist diabetes team.

Type 2 Diabetes
You may be able to follow the plan under medical supervision. Rapid weight loss can significantly reduce blood glucose levels and medication requirements. Your GP or diabetes nurse may need to adjust treatment to reduce the risk of hypoglycaemia.

Do not begin without professional supervision.

🦴 Gout

Rapid weight loss may temporarily increase uric acid levels, which can trigger gout flare-ups.

If you have a history of gout, consult your GP before starting.

🧠 Epilepsy

Changes in weight and nutritional intake can affect seizure control or medication levels.

Speak to your GP or specialist before starting.

🦋 Thyroid Conditions

If you take thyroid medication, dosage may need monitoring during significant weight loss.

Consult your GP before beginning.

❤️ High Blood Pressure

Weight loss can improve blood pressure, but medication doses may require adjustment as levels change.

Medical advice is recommended before starting.

🧬 Kidney or Liver Disease

VLCD and TDR programmes are not suitable for individuals with severe kidney or liver disease unless approved by a healthcare professional.

🥛 Lactose Intolerance

Some products contain milk-derived ingredients.

If you are lactose intolerant, carefully check ingredient labels before purchasing. Sensitivity varies between individuals.

🪨 Gallstones

Rapid weight loss is associated with an increased risk of gallstone formation. If you have existing gallstones or a history of gallbladder problems, medical guidance is advised before starting.

🧠 Mental Health & Eating Disorders

If you have a history of eating disorders or disordered eating patterns, a VLCD or TDR plan should only be considered under appropriate professional guidance.

🚫 Not Suitable For:

• Pregnant or breastfeeding women

• Individuals under 18

• Those with untreated eating disorders

• Anyone advised by their GP not to follow a low-calorie diet

💊 Medication Considerations

Weight loss can alter how your body processes medication.

Particular care should be taken if you use:

• Insulin or blood sugar–lowering medication

• Blood pressure medication

• Diuretics

• Thyroid medication

Your GP may need to monitor or adjust doses during weight loss.

⏳ Duration & Supervision

Very low-calorie diets are generally used for short-term weight loss (typically up to 12 weeks).

Longer use should be undertaken with appropriate medical supervision.

📞 Need Further Support?

If you have questions about whether our plans are suitable for you, our team is here to help.

📧 Email: [email protected]
📞 Telephone: 028 38 330 720
💬 Live Chat via our website

Please note: Our customer support team cannot provide medical advice. For personalised health guidance, always consult your GP or healthcare professional.