Rapid weight loss is achievable, depending on how quickly the weight needs to be lost as well as the goal weight. However, there are both advantages and disadvantages to attempting these types of diets.
Advantages
Rapid weight loss diets are designed to last a relatively short period of time and to provide the greatest weight loss within that period. Normally these diets last only a couple of weeks. This helps prevent the boredom with food options that are often associated with dieting meaning that dieters are more likely to achieve quick weight loss.
Intermittent fasting is currently one of the most popular fast weight loss programs. It consists of eating larger portions of food at a set time everyday and then fasting until the next meal in order to allow the body to burn fat rather than using consumed energy or storing fat.
Quick weight loss diets, such as low carb high protein programs, are great to kick start a long term diet plan that will help maintain weight loss after the pounds have been shed. For the best results, it is best only to use these types of diets for the recommended period of time to avoid the disadvantages and start a healthy, balanced eating plan.
Disadvantages
Unfortunately, there are a number of pitfalls to rapid or crash diets. Most commonly, the weight that is lost is regained shortly after stopping the diet. In many cases, more than the initial weight loss is gained back. However, this disadvantage can be avoided by continuing with a longer term dieting program after the initial crash diet.
Crash dieting can also result in lethargy, fatigue and extreme tiredness. This is largely due to the fact that the body is not getting the required amount of calories to sustain and maintain energy levels. This is especially true for low carb diets. However, continuing with a regulated eating plan should eliminate a lack of energy after a period of time, normally a month.
Most weight loss plans are simply not effective without incorporating an exercise plan. Exercise does not have to be extreme in order to achieve the best results. Cardio exercises are best to achieve weight loss. Interval training in combination with a fast weigh loss diet has been proven to show the quickest weight loss results. However, for those who are mostly sedentary (couch potato or office workers) just a 15 minute walk daily can contribute to the weight loss.
Another detriment to quick weight loss diets is a loss of essential nutrients that can have short and long term health consequences. However, just like the other disadvantages, this pitfall can be avoided by taking a good vitamin and mineral supplement while crash dieting. Consult with your doctor or local pharmacist regarding the best supplements available on the market.
Diets that achieve fast weight loss can be beneficial and have the desired effects within the required time frame when used correctly. However, it is important to be aware of scams and diet plans that could be harmful.
