Problems With Losing Weight Too Fast

Health professionals typically suggest that you aim to lose 1 to 2 lbs. per week. Although this may not seem like much, it adds up to between 50 and 100 pounds in just one year's time. Losing weight too fast can result in serious health problems.

Shivering

Body fat insulates the body and keeps it warm. With rapid weight loss, the body fat directly under your skin is lost quite quickly, which causes the body to lose insulation. As a result, the body cannot hold heat and shivering quickly ensues.

Muscle Loss

Body fat is the body's main source of energy. If you lose weight too fast, your body loses its major source of energy. As a result, the body digests muscle tissue instead.

Dehydration

The body wastes a significant amount of water when it digests muscle tissue. As a result, you often become dehydrated quickly on a rapid weight loss program.

Gallstones

Gallstones occur in 12 to 15 percent of people who experience rapid weight loss, according to WebMD. These gallstones can be caused by either a shift in nutrition or as a result of fasting.

Malnutrition

If you are losing weight too quickly, you are likely not getting the nutrients your body needs. A well-balanced diet and plenty of exercise is the healthiest way to lose weight, even if it takes some time.

References

• Effects and Problems Caused by Rapid Weight Loss
• Rapid Weight Loss