Medical Disclaimer
"As with any weight loss diet, you should always check with your doctor first."
Your client should NOT do the diet if they:
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Are under 18 years of age.
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Are breastfeeding, pregnant, or undergoing fertility treatment. However, if you are pregnant and there is a risk of (or previous history of) gestational diabetes.
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Are underweight and/or have a history or suspicion of an eating disorder.
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Have a significant psychiatric disorder or a history of substance abuse.
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Are under active medical investigation or treatment, or have a significant medical condition affecting your ability to comply with a diet.
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Have a recent cardiac event, myocardial infarction, cerebrovascular accident (less than three months ago), or other heart abnormalities.
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Have uncontrolled heart disease, uncontrolled hypertension, or kidney failure.
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Are unwell, have a fever, frail, or recovering from significant surgery (less than six months ago).
Cautions – discuss with their doctor if any of the following apply before doing the SOZA program:
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They have a significant underlying medical condition.
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They are on insulin – they may need a detailed assessment and education by a health professional to plan a suitable reduction in medication/insulin to avoid a potentially dangerous drop in blood sugar (hypo).
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They have type 2 diabetes and are on medication. Their medication may need to be reduced or stopped as blood sugars improve and to avoid hypos.
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They are on particular diabetic medication and have ‘hypoglycemia unawareness’.
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They are on blood pressure medication. This may need to be reduced or stopped as blood pressure improves.
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They are taking other medications, e.g., warfarin.
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They have moderate or severe retinopathy; they will need extra screening within six months as retinopathy can sometimes worsen when blood sugar improves.
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They have epilepsy (though there is some evidence that a low-carb keto diet can improve epilepsy).
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They are pregnant: clearly, avoiding low-calorie diets is wise.