Fast Weight Loss – Why it Does Not Work in the Long Term

Over the past few decades there has been a proliferation in the number of fast weight loss diets, a time during which there has been a significant increase in obesity levels. While there is no hard evidence of a correlation between these two factors, it seems the more we embrace fast weight loss diets, the more we gain weight.

Fast weight loss diets offer fast results, but these are false results. Here are the reasons why:

1. Famine Response

When your weight drops quickly your metabolism slows by up to 40% as your body prepares for starvation. So when you stop dieting and eat normally again your body burns fewer calories and you gain weight.

2. Muscle Wastage

When you lose weight quickly you do not just lose body fat – you lose muscle tissue. Muscle tissue is metabolically active, meaning that it burns calories. So when you stop dieting and eat normally again, you have less muscle available to burn calories and you gain weight.

3. Impracticalities

When you restrict your food intake you are constantly hungry and lack the nutrients you need to maintain physical health. This situation cannot be sustained in the long term.

Furthermore, food is often associated with social occasions such as going out to dinner. People who are dieting often avoid social situations and family mealtimes, leading to feelings of isolation and loneliness.

4. Yoyo Dieting

Fast diets often lead to cycles of weight loss and gain called ‘yoyo’ dieting. 95% of people who go on fast diets regain any weight lost – plus more – within two years (1).

5. Abstinence Leads to Bingeing

When your food intake is restricted you experience physical and emotional deprivation. This compels you to eat, which commonly leads to overeating or bingeing. As a result, you are likely to feel sensations of guilt and failure. This often becomes a cycle which is difficult to break and has devastating effects on your self esteem (1).

6. Poor Health

Fast diets are bad for you health because they:
* Increases your risk of medical complications such as gallstones, gout and constipation
* Lowers your immunity
* Leaves you deficient in important vitamins and minerals.

Healthy Weight Loss

The best way to lose weight is to make healthy and sustainable changes to your eating and exercise habits. For advice on starting your weight loss journey the healthy way, talk to a health professional such as a Dietitian or Doctor.

By: Kylie White