When people decide they would like to lose weight, they would like to do so in a very short length of time. In fact, wouldn’t it be wonderful if the excess weight could just magically disappear in a heartbeat? The next day we go out and nobody even recognizes us! How great would it be?
But unfortunately, losing weight too fast can be dangerous. But, is it really dangerous?
Losing weight fast is more or less dangerous depending on the person and on the way the weight is lost. As long as the nutritional requirements are met, it doesn’t really matter how fast one loses the weight.
But it is quite hard to manage getting in the nourishment one needs without an intake of at least 1000 calories. It is generally advised that women should have an intake of at least 1000 calories, and men of 1400.
One can lose weight very fast that way. And one should keep in mind that if a person is taller or heavier than average, they could lose weight even if they eat more. As a matter of fact, the majority of people should eat more than that.
Another question is what is meant by rapid weight loss. The rule of thumb is that it is okay to lose a pound or two per week. Anything more than this may cause problems. But a lot depends on how heavy you were in the beginning. If someone was 300 pounds, they would be okay losing 5 pounds at the beginning of their venture. And, men lose weight faster than women do.
Losing the weight slowly usually allows you to also keep the weight off. Crash diets that lead to rapid weight loss are not sustainable for most people. Crash diets rarely meet our nutritional needs. And at the end of a crash diet, there can be binges that are more dangerous than the diet itself.
When it comes to young people, losing weight too fast can lead to eating disorders such as anorexia. For most of these people, their perception of their own body image is wrong. And some of the issue could possibly stem from one wanting to have control over their life and body. The causes of anorexia are complex but it is something to watch out for, especially if you find that you are becoming obsessed with eating as little as possible.
Fast weight loss can also lead to other health concerns. People who lose weight too fast might develop gallstones and their hearts may even suffer from the shock.
And of course, if your rapid weight loss is not voluntary, you should definitely consult your doctor. If you lose weight rapidly without being on a diet, your doctor should definitely know.
Jewelry designer and artist Caroline Jasper creates one-of-a-kind semi precious gemstone necklaces – each piece handcrafted by an artisan.