Energy Prescription

For most clients an energy deficit of 500-1000kcal per day will produce a weight loss of 0.5-1kg (1-2lb) per week. Some clients can acheive this by making healthy eating changes based on the Balance of Good Health - Lose Weight, Feel Great. For others a more structured plan may be necessary based on energy expenditure.

The 14 day eating plan in the patient resource section of this programme can be adapted to meet the client's energy prescription. It is based on 1200kcal per day with 'extras' to add in to achieve the required energy prescription. Each 'extra' item provides approximately 100kcal. We recommend that women have a minimum of 1500kcal/day and men have a minimum of 1800kcal/day.

For prescriptions of upto 2200kcal per day allow up to 2 items from each 'extras' group.

For prescriptions of 2200kcal to 2700kcal per day allow up to 3 items from each 'extras' group.

For clients who do not eat meat, chicken and fish give aditional portions from group 4 of the 'extras' in exchange for those from group 5.

For energy prescriptions over 2700kcal per day advice on healthy eating may be more appropriate. 'Lose Weight - Feel Great.'

The meal plan offers examples of suitable meals and is not intended to be used for more than a few days. For long-term weight management clients should be encouraged to select their own meals based around the Balance of Good Health and the portion sizes described in the meal plan.

Round the energy prescription up to the nearest 100kcal.