FASTING AND LIQUID DIETS

Fasting means to not eat any food. It is often used as a way to lose weight. When not monitored by a healthcare provider, fasting and very low calorie diets, such as liquid diets, are unhealthy and dangerous ways to lose weight. Along with fat and water, valuable muscle tissue is lost while fasting and this slows down metabolism. Fasting and very low calorie diets that are not medically supervised do not supplement the body's nutrient requirements to function properly.

Fasting and liquid diets may promote rapid weight loss, but not permanent fat loss. They are associated with medical problems including sensitivity to cold, brittle nails, fatigue, diarrhea or constipation, and heart problems. Weight loss by means of liquid diets can cause gallbladder problems. Sudden death may occur with very low calorie liquid diets or total fasting.

Advertisements using celebrities to promote meal replacement drinks have been widely used in the past few years. Today, however, such products are losing popularity. This is due to the fact that permanent fat loss does not occur unless the person adopts appropriate habits of exercise, diet, and behavior into their lifestyle.

Medically supervised fasting or liquid diets contain high quality protein and carbohydrates. They are supplemented with vitamins, minerals, and electrolytes. With careful supervision, weight loss can be accomplished safely. Such programs require careful medical screening and they are usually very expensive, costing thousands of dollars.

Diet clinics may offer food plans of 1000 to 1500 calories per day. Some require you to purchase specially packaged meals available only through the company. The number of calories that is right for you depends on your weight and activity level. These programs provide variable amounts of counseling on exercise and behavior change that are needed to maintain weight loss.

Remember, permanent fat loss is achieved by following a sound plan that includes exercise, behavior changes, and a nutritious diet.

Disclaimer: This content is reviewed periodically and is subject to change as new health information becomes available. The information provided is intended to be informative and educational and is not a replacement for professional medical evaluation, advice, diagnosis or treatment by a healthcare professional.

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