Dr Now Diet Plan: Complete Guide to Dr. Nowzaradan’s Weight Loss Program

The Dr. Now Diet has gained significant attention thanks to the popular reality TV show “My 600-Lb Life.” Dr. Younan Nowzaradan, commonly known as Dr. Now, has helped countless individuals achieve dramatic weight loss through his strict dietary approach. However, this highly restrictive diet plan isn’t designed for everyone and comes with important considerations you need to understand before attempting it.

This comprehensive guide will walk you through everything you need to know about the Dr. Now Diet, including its principles, benefits, potential risks, and whether it’s an appropriate choice for your weight loss journey.

Who Is Dr. Nowzaradan?

Dr. Younan Nowzaradan is a renowned bariatric surgeon based in Houston, Texas, who specializes in weight loss surgery for patients with severe obesity. With decades of experience, Dr. Now has become famous for accepting patients that many other surgeons consider too high-risk to operate on.

His rise to fame came through the TLC reality show “My 600-Lb Life,” which documents the transformative journeys of individuals weighing over 600 pounds as they work toward weight loss surgery and a healthier life. Dr. Now’s straightforward, no-nonsense approach and his commitment to patient success have made him a respected figure in the field of bariatric medicine.

What Is the Dr. Now Diet Plan?

The Dr. Now Diet is an extremely restrictive, low-calorie, low-carbohydrate eating plan specifically designed to help patients lose weight rapidly before undergoing bariatric surgery. This pre-operative diet serves multiple purposes: it reduces surgical risks, shrinks the liver to make surgery safer, and demonstrates the patient’s commitment to making necessary lifestyle changes.

Dr. Nowzaradan outlines his dietary approach in his book “The Scale Does Not Lie, People Do,” where he emphasizes that this diet is a medical intervention, not a casual weight loss plan for the general population.

The diet typically restricts daily caloric intake to 1,200 calories or less, eliminates sugar and high-fat foods, and focuses on lean proteins, vegetables, and high-fiber foods. Patients usually follow this diet for one to two months before their scheduled surgery.

The Three Principles of the Dr. Now Diet: FAT

Dr. Now uses the acronym “FAT” to explain the three core principles of his dietary approach:

Frequency

This principle addresses how often you should eat. Dr. Now recommends consuming only two to three meals per day with absolutely no snacking between meals. This approach helps control overall calorie intake and can help regulate blood sugar levels throughout the day.

Amount

The amount principle refers to calorie restriction. Dr. Now typically limits patients to 1,200 calories or less per day. If eating three meals daily, this means approximately 400 calories per meal. For those eating twice daily, each meal should contain around 600 calories.

This severe calorie restriction is what drives the rapid weight loss seen in Dr. Now’s patients, but it’s important to note that such restriction should only be undertaken under medical supervision.

Type

The type of food you consume is equally critical. Dr. Now emphasizes choosing low-fat, low-carbohydrate foods while completely avoiding sugar. The diet prioritizes high-protein and high-fiber foods, which help promote satiety and preserve lean muscle mass during rapid weight loss.

How Does the Dr. Now Diet Work?

The Dr. Now Diet works primarily through severe calorie restriction combined with macronutrient manipulation. By drastically reducing caloric intake while emphasizing protein and fiber, the body enters a caloric deficit that forces it to burn stored fat for energy.

The low-carbohydrate aspect of the diet helps reduce liver size, which is particularly important for bariatric surgery candidates. A smaller liver makes the surgical procedure safer and easier to perform, as the liver sits near the stomach and can obstruct the surgical field.

Additionally, the diet serves as a test of the patient’s ability to make significant lifestyle changes. Success on the pre-operative diet demonstrates commitment and increases the likelihood of long-term success after surgery.

Foods to Eat on the Dr. Now Diet

The Dr. Now Diet allows specific foods that are nutrient-dense, high in protein and fiber, and low in calories and fat:

Lean Protein Sources

• Egg whites
• Skinless chicken breast
• Turkey breast
• White fish (cod, tilapia, halibut)
• Fatty fish in moderation (salmon, tuna)
• Beans and legumes
• Tofu and tempeh
• Low-fat cottage cheese

Vegetables

• Leafy greens (spinach, kale, lettuce)
• Broccoli and cauliflower
• Zucchini and summer squash
• Bell peppers
• Asparagus
• Green beans
• Mushrooms
• Tomatoes
• Cucumbers

Lower-Sugar Fruits

• Berries (strawberries, blueberries, raspberries)
• Apples
• Pears
• Citrus fruits (oranges, grapefruit)
• Peaches

Limited Whole Grains

• Whole-wheat bread (in small portions)
• Whole-wheat pasta (limited amounts)
• Whole-wheat tortillas

Dairy Products

• Skim milk
• Plain non-fat Greek yogurt
• Low-fat cheese (limited portions)

Other Allowed Items

• Cooking spray
• Small amounts of oil for cooking
• Zero-calorie sweeteners
• Herbs and spices
• Sugar-free beverages

Foods to Avoid on the Dr. Now Diet

Dr. Now provides a comprehensive list of foods that patients must strictly avoid. Some restrictions are obvious, while others might surprise you:

High-Calorie Proteins

• Whole eggs
• Fatty cuts of meat
• Processed meats (bacon, sausage, hot dogs)
• Fried meats
• Full-fat cheese

High-Sugar Fruits

• Bananas
• Mangoes
• Watermelon
• Cantaloupe
• Fruit juices
• Dried fruits
• Canned fruits in syrup

Starchy Vegetables and Grains

• Potatoes (all forms, including French fries)
• Corn
• White rice
• Brown rice
• Oatmeal
• Regular pasta

High-Fat Foods

• Butter and margarine
• Most oils (except minimal amounts for cooking)
• Nuts and seeds (including peanut butter)
• Avocado (except in very small portions)

Sugary and Processed Foods

• Candy and chocolate
• Cookies and cakes
• Ice cream and frozen desserts
• Chips and crackers
• Popcorn
• Sweetened beverages
• Honey and syrups

Sample Dr. Now Diet Meal Plan

Here’s a practical three-day meal plan that adheres to Dr. Now’s dietary guidelines, with each meal containing approximately 400 calories:

Day 1

Breakfast: Scrambled egg whites (4 egg whites) with spinach and mushrooms, 1 slice whole-wheat toast, black coffee or tea

Lunch: 4 ounces grilled chicken breast over mixed greens with cucumber, tomatoes, and 2 tablespoons balsamic vinegar

Dinner: 4 ounces baked salmon with steamed asparagus and a small side salad with lemon juice dressing

Day 2

Breakfast: 1 cup plain non-fat Greek yogurt with 1/2 cup strawberries and a sprinkle of cinnamon

Lunch: Turkey and vegetable soup (homemade with lean turkey breast, various vegetables, and low-sodium broth), 1 small whole-wheat roll

Dinner: 4 ounces grilled tilapia with roasted zucchini and bell peppers

Day 3

Breakfast: Protein smoothie made with 1 cup skim milk, 1 scoop protein powder, 1/2 cup blueberries, and ice

Lunch: 4 ounces sliced turkey breast wrapped in lettuce leaves with mustard, carrot and celery sticks

Dinner: 4 ounces lean ground turkey with marinara sauce over spiralized zucchini noodles, topped with 1 ounce part-skim mozzarella

Benefits of the Dr. Now Diet

When used appropriately and under medical supervision, the Dr. Now Diet offers several important benefits for pre-surgical patients:

Rapid Weight Loss

The most obvious benefit is rapid weight loss. Patients following this diet often lose 20-30 pounds or more in just one month. This quick weight reduction is essential for reducing surgical risks in patients with severe obesity.

Liver Size Reduction

The low-carbohydrate aspect of the diet helps shrink the liver, which is crucial for bariatric surgery. A smaller liver provides better surgical access and reduces the risk of complications during the procedure.

Improved Surgical Outcomes

Research has shown that pre-operative weight loss can significantly improve surgical outcomes for bariatric patients. Even modest weight loss before surgery can reduce the risk of complications and improve recovery times.

Demonstrates Commitment

Successfully following this challenging diet demonstrates the patient’s commitment to making necessary lifestyle changes. This psychological preparation is important for long-term success after surgery.

Reduces Health Risks

Pre-operative weight loss can help improve various obesity-related health conditions such as high blood pressure, sleep apnea, and blood sugar control, making surgery safer.

Potential Risks and Downsides

While the Dr. Now Diet has its place in pre-surgical preparation, it comes with significant risks and limitations that must be understood:

Extreme Calorie Restriction

The 1,200-calorie limit is far below what most adults need for normal functioning. This level of restriction can lead to fatigue, weakness, dizziness, and difficulty concentrating. It’s not sustainable for extended periods and should only be attempted under medical supervision.

Nutritional Deficiencies

Such a restrictive diet makes it extremely difficult to obtain adequate amounts of essential vitamins and minerals. Common deficiencies may include B vitamins, vitamin D, calcium, iron, and magnesium. Patients typically require supplementation to prevent deficiency-related health problems.

Metabolic Adaptation

Severe calorie restriction can cause your metabolism to slow down as your body adapts to conserve energy. This metabolic adaptation can make it harder to lose weight over time and may contribute to weight regain when normal eating resumes.

Muscle Loss

Rapid weight loss often results in loss of lean muscle mass along with fat. While the high protein content of Dr. Now’s diet helps minimize this, some muscle loss is inevitable with such extreme calorie restriction.

Psychological Challenges

The diet’s extreme restrictions can be mentally and emotionally challenging. Some people may develop unhealthy relationships with food or experience increased anxiety around eating.

Not Suitable for Most People

This diet is specifically designed for pre-surgical bariatric patients and is not appropriate for general weight loss. Most people would be better served by a more moderate, sustainable approach to weight management.

Potential for Rebound Weight Gain

Without proper transition and long-term lifestyle changes, the weight lost on such an extreme diet is often regained quickly once normal eating resumes.

Who Should Consider the Dr. Now Diet?

The Dr. Now Diet is designed for a very specific population and should only be considered under certain circumstances:

Pre-Bariatric Surgery Patients

The primary candidates for this diet are individuals who have been approved for bariatric surgery and need to lose weight before the procedure. These patients typically have a BMI over 40 or a BMI over 35 with serious obesity-related health conditions.

Under Medical Supervision

Anyone following this diet must be under close medical supervision, including regular monitoring by a physician, bariatric surgeon, and registered dietitian. Medical oversight helps ensure safety and allows for adjustment of the plan as needed.

With Proper Support

Patients should have access to a comprehensive support system, including medical professionals, mental health counselors, and potentially support groups to help navigate the challenges of such an restrictive eating plan.

Who Should NOT Follow the Dr. Now Diet?

This diet is inappropriate for many people, including:

• Individuals seeking general weight loss without medical necessity
• People with eating disorders or a history of disordered eating
• Pregnant or breastfeeding women
• Children and adolescents
• Elderly individuals without medical supervision
• People with certain medical conditions that require higher calorie intake
• Athletes or highly active individuals
• Anyone without access to proper medical supervision

Tips for Success on the Dr. Now Diet

If you’ve been prescribed this diet by your healthcare provider, these tips can help you succeed:

Plan Your Meals in Advance

Meal planning is essential when working with such strict calorie and food restrictions. Plan your meals for the entire week, calculate calories carefully, and prepare food in advance when possible.

Stay Hydrated

Drink plenty of water throughout the day. Adequate hydration helps manage hunger, supports metabolism, and is essential for overall health during weight loss.

Take Prescribed Supplements

Follow your healthcare provider’s recommendations for vitamin and mineral supplementation. This helps prevent nutritional deficiencies during the restrictive diet period.

Focus on Protein

Prioritize protein at each meal to help preserve muscle mass and promote satiety. This makes the restrictive calorie level more manageable.

Measure Portions Carefully

Use a food scale and measuring cups to ensure accurate portion sizes. With such limited calories, every bite counts, and portion control is critical.

Keep a Food Diary

Track everything you eat and drink. This helps ensure you’re staying within the calorie limits and following the dietary guidelines correctly.

Communicate with Your Medical Team

Report any concerns, side effects, or difficulties to your healthcare providers promptly. They can make adjustments or provide additional support as needed.

Prepare for Challenges

Expect to feel hungry and possibly irritable at times. Having strategies in place to cope with these feelings can help you stay on track.

Alternatives to the Dr. Now Diet

For individuals who don’t require the extreme restrictions of the Dr. Now Diet, there are more sustainable alternatives for weight loss:

Mediterranean Diet

This eating pattern emphasizes whole foods, healthy fats, lean proteins, and plenty of fruits and vegetables. It’s been shown to support weight loss while providing excellent nutrition and long-term sustainability.

Balanced Calorie Deficit

Creating a moderate calorie deficit of 500-750 calories per day typically results in steady, sustainable weight loss of 1-2 pounds per week without the extreme restrictions of the Dr. Now Diet.

Whole Foods, Plant-Based Diet

Focusing on whole, minimally processed plant foods can promote weight loss while providing excellent nutrition and supporting overall health.

Mindful Eating Approach

Learning to listen to hunger and fullness cues, eating without distractions, and developing a healthier relationship with food can lead to sustainable weight management.

Transitioning Off the Dr. Now Diet

For those who have followed the Dr. Now Diet as preparation for surgery, transitioning to post-surgical eating requires careful planning and medical guidance. Your healthcare team will provide specific instructions for gradually introducing foods and adjusting portion sizes after surgery.

The transition period is critical for establishing long-term healthy eating habits that will support weight maintenance and overall health. Most bariatric programs include comprehensive nutritional counseling to guide patients through this process.

The Importance of Medical Supervision

It cannot be overstated that the Dr. Now Diet should only be attempted under close medical supervision. This level of calorie restriction can have serious health consequences if not properly monitored.

Medical supervision includes:

• Regular check-ups to monitor vital signs and overall health
• Blood work to check for nutritional deficiencies and metabolic changes
• Consultations with a registered dietitian to ensure proper nutrition
• Access to mental health support to address psychological challenges
• Adjustments to any medications you’re taking
• Emergency support if complications arise

Never attempt this diet without first consulting with qualified healthcare professionals and receiving their approval and ongoing supervision.

Long-Term Weight Loss Success

While the Dr. Now Diet can produce dramatic short-term results for appropriate candidates, long-term weight loss success requires comprehensive lifestyle changes that extend far beyond any single diet plan.

Successful long-term weight management typically includes:

• Developing sustainable eating habits
• Regular physical activity appropriate for your fitness level
• Stress management techniques
• Adequate sleep
• Ongoing support from healthcare providers and support networks
• Addressing psychological and emotional factors related to eating
• Regular self-monitoring and accountability

Frequently Asked Questions About the Dr. Now Diet

How quickly can you lose weight on the Dr. Now Diet?

Weight loss varies depending on starting weight and individual factors, but many patients lose 20-30 pounds or more in the first month. Those with higher starting weights may lose even more.

Can I exercise while on the Dr. Now Diet?

Light physical activity is generally encouraged, but the extreme calorie restriction makes intense exercise difficult and potentially dangerous. Always follow your healthcare provider’s specific recommendations regarding physical activity.

How long should you stay on the Dr. Now Diet?

This diet is typically followed for 1-2 months before bariatric surgery. It’s not designed for long-term use and should only be followed as long as your medical team recommends.

Will I need to take vitamins while on this diet?

Yes, most people following this diet require vitamin and mineral supplementation to prevent deficiencies. Your healthcare provider will recommend specific supplements based on your individual needs.

Can I follow a modified version of the Dr. Now Diet on my own?

No. This diet should only be followed under medical supervision and as prescribed by your healthcare provider. For general weight loss, consider more moderate and sustainable approaches.

Conclusion

The Dr. Now Diet is a highly restrictive, medically supervised eating plan designed specifically for pre-bariatric surgery patients who need to lose weight quickly to reduce surgical risks. While it can be effective for its intended purpose, it’s not appropriate for general weight loss and comes with significant risks when not properly supervised.

If you’re considering bariatric surgery and your healthcare provider recommends the Dr. Now Diet, follow their guidance carefully and maintain close communication with your medical team throughout the process. The diet is just one component of a comprehensive approach to weight loss that includes surgery, nutritional counseling, psychological support, and long-term lifestyle changes.

For those seeking weight loss outside of a surgical context, numerous more sustainable and less restrictive approaches are available. Focus on creating a moderate calorie deficit, choosing nutritious whole foods, staying physically active, and developing a healthy relationship with food. These strategies, while producing slower results, are more likely to lead to lasting success.

Remember, no diet plan should be started without consulting healthcare professionals, especially one as restrictive as the Dr. Now Diet. Your health and safety should always be the top priority in any weight loss journey.

Sources:

• National Institutes of Health – Bariatric Surgery and Pre-operative Weight Loss
• Mayo Clinic – Bariatric Surgery Information
• National Institute of Diabetes and Digestive and Kidney Diseases – Bariatric Surgery
• PubMed Central – Very Low-Calorie Diets for Obesity
• American Society for Metabolic and Bariatric Surgery