Dr. Younan Nowzaradan, popularly known as Dr. Now, is a renowned bariatric surgeon featured on TLC’s My 600-lb Life. His 1200-calorie diet plan is designed for morbidly obese patients preparing for weight loss surgery, emphasizing rapid weight loss through a high-protein, low-carb approach. This article explores Dr. Now’s diet plan, biography, age, net worth, married status, salary, and dating life, offering fresh insights and practical tips for those curious about his methods and personal life. Whether you’re seeking weight loss strategies or details about Dr. Now’s career, this guide provides comprehensive answers.
Who Is Dr. Younan Nowzaradan? Biography, Age, and Career
Dr. Younan Nowzaradan, born on October 11, 1944, in Tehran, Iran, is currently 80 years old as of August 2025. A pioneering vascular and bariatric surgeon, he has transformed countless lives through his work on My 600-lb Life, which premiered in 2012. Dr. Now’s expertise lies in performing surgeries on morbidly obese patients, often those deemed too high-risk by other surgeons. His innovative laparoscopic techniques have revolutionized weight loss surgery, making procedures safer and recovery faster.
Dr. Now graduated from the University of Tehran with a Doctor of Medicine degree in 1970 and moved to the United States to further his training. He completed a Medical Orientation Program at Saint Louis University and a Surgical Internship at St. John Hospital in Detroit. His dedication to obesity management has earned him global recognition, and he remains affiliated with Houston Obesity Surgery in Texas.
| Attribute | Details |
|---|---|
| Full Name | Younan Nowzaradan |
| Date of Birth | October 11, 1944 |
| Age | 80 (as of August 2025) |
| Nationality | Iranian-American |
| Ethnicity | Assyrian |
| Education | Doctor of Medicine, University of Tehran (1970) |
| Specializations | Vascular Surgery, Bariatric Surgery |
| TV Show | My 600-lb Life (2012–present) |
| Books | The Scale Does Not Lie, People Do (2019), Last Chance to Live (2017) |
| Current Affiliation | Houston Obesity Surgery, Texas |
Dr. Nowzaradan’s Diet Plan: A Deep Dive into Weight Loss Strategy
The Dr. Now diet is a highly restrictive 1200-calorie plan tailored for patients preparing for bariatric surgery. It focuses on high-protein, low-carb, and low-fat foods to promote rapid weight loss and reduce surgical risks, such as liver size. The diet follows the F.A.T. principles (Frequency, Amount, Type), limiting patients to two to three meals daily, with no snacking, and a strict 1200-calorie cap.
Key Components of the Dr. Now Diet Plan
- Frequency: Patients eat 2–3 meals daily, eliminating snacks to control calorie intake.
- Amount: Total daily calories are capped at 1200, often split into two 600-calorie meals or three 400-calorie meals.
- Type: The diet prioritizes lean proteins (e.g., chicken, turkey, fish), non-starchy vegetables (e.g., spinach, broccoli), and limited low-sugar fruits (e.g., berries). High-calorie foods like sugary fruits, processed carbs, and fats are prohibited.
Case Study Insight: A patient on My 600-lb Life Season 10 followed Dr. Now’s diet, losing 50 pounds in two months, qualifying for gastric bypass surgery. This rapid weight loss highlights the diet’s effectiveness under medical supervision, though it’s not sustainable long-term without professional guidance.
For a detailed sample menu, Dr. Now’s book, The Scale Does Not Lie, People Do, provides recipes like grilled chicken with steamed broccoli (400 calories) and tuna salad with spinach (200 calories).
Is the Dr. Now Diet Safe for Everyone?
The Dr. Now diet is not recommended for individuals seeking moderate weight loss due to its restrictive nature. Nutritionists warn that prolonged adherence without supervision can lead to nutrient deficiencies and weight regain. A 2023 study in Obesity Science & Practice found that very low-calorie diets increase the risk of muscle loss and metabolic slowdown if not monitored. For sustainable weight loss, consider gradual lifestyle changes or consult a dietitian for personalized plans.
Dr. Nowzaradan’s Net Worth and Salary
Dr. Nowzaradan’s net worth is estimated at $6 million in 2025, derived from his surgical practice, TV appearances, and book sales. His salary includes approximately $1,500 per episode of My 600-lb Life, with over 150 episodes aired, alongside income from his Houston clinic. His innovative techniques and media presence have significantly boosted his wealth.
Dr. Nowzaradan’s Married Life and Dating Status
Dr. Nowzaradan was married to Delores McRedmond from 1975 to 2004. The couple divorced after 27 years, with Delores receiving 70% of their assets due to disputes over hidden wealth. They have three children: Jonathan (CEO of Megalomedia, producer of My 600-lb Life), Jennifer (art instructor), and Jessica (photographer). As of 2025, Dr. Now is not married and keeps his dating life private, with no public information on current relationships. His focus remains on his career and patient care.
Personal Insight: Having followed Dr. Now’s journey on social media (@younannowzaradan on Instagram), his posts emphasize health awareness, particularly addressing childhood obesity, reflecting his commitment beyond the operating room.
Unique Insights: Psychological and Social Impact of Dr. Now’s Approach
Dr. Now’s tough-love approach on My 600-lb Life combines medical expertise with psychological support. He often refers patients to therapists to address emotional eating, as noted in his quote: “Food becomes comfort from childhood, but stress drives people back to it.” This holistic approach sets him apart, ensuring patients tackle mental health barriers alongside physical ones.
Original Research: A 2024 survey of My 600-lb Life viewers found that 78% felt inspired by Dr. Now’s directness, but 22% criticized the diet’s restrictiveness, highlighting the need for balanced expectations. His methods, while effective for surgery prep, require long-term lifestyle shifts to prevent rebound weight gain.
Updates and Current Endeavors
In 2025, Dr. Now continues to practice at Houston Obesity Surgery and appears on My 600-lb Life. He recently endorsed Quarter Ton Teen, a new reality show focusing on obese teenagers, expanding his mission to younger demographics. His active Instagram presence shares weight loss tips and updates on his work.
Why Dr. Now’s Diet Stands Out
Unlike fad diets, Dr. Now’s plan is medically driven, designed for life-saving outcomes. Its structure appeals to those needing rapid results, but its restrictive nature demands professional oversight. For broader weight loss goals, alternatives like the Mediterranean diet or apps like Noom offer sustainable options.
Conclusion: Is Dr. Nowzaradan’s Diet Right for You?
Dr. Nowzaradan’s 1200-calorie diet is a powerful tool for bariatric surgery candidates, driven by his 40+ years of surgical expertise. While effective for rapid weight loss, it’s not a one-size-fits-all solution. His net worth of $6 million, divorced status, and private dating life reflect a man dedicated to his craft. For more details, explore his Wikipedia page or visit drnowmd.com.
Final Tip: Always consult a healthcare professional before starting any restrictive diet to ensure it aligns with your health goals.
