Liquid protein diets can help you lose weight, but there are risks involved. Some diet plans call for nothing but liquids in the initial phase, whereas others typically let you eat one regular meal a day and have you drink liquid shakes for your other meals. If you're considering going on a liquid diet, consult with your doctor first and stay under a physician's care while using the diet plan.
Insufficient Calories and Protein
Extreme liquid protein diets are best for those who are obese and have a lot of weight to lose. Diet.com reports that these very-low-calorie diets are generally prescribed only if the risks of obesity outweigh the risks associated with drastically restricting calories. Since some of the diets allow only 500 to 800 calories a day, dieters may experience fatigue and run the risk of malnutrition. Rosemary Son, a dietitian at the University of Texas Southwestern Medical School, says it's not safe to go on one of these diets without medical supervision. She says it's "absolutely essential" that people get enough vitamins and protein, and that's "not necessarily what all protein shakes on the grocery shelf provide."
Loss of Vitamins and Minerals
Diet.com reports that many liquid protein diets do not provide enough vitamins and minerals to replace those you would usually be getting from solid food. Vitamin and mineral deficiencies can cause a host of medical problems. For instance, if your body isn't getting enough calcium, your chance of getting osteoporosis and rickets increases. You may also be more susceptible to disease and infection.
Digestive Problems
Even medically supervised liquid protein diets can create some unwelcome side effects. Diet.com notes that some people experience nausea, constipation and diarrhea on these liquid diets. There's also a risk of gallstone formation.
Heart Problems
WeightLossFor All.com reports that people who are only mildly obese may lose too much lean body mass on a liquid diet. That can increase their risk of developing cardiac problems, and these diets have been associated with cardiac arrhythmias. People who already have cardiac problems or high blood pressure should look for other dieting options since the liquid diets often contain large amounts of sodium.
Weight Gain
Liquid protein diets may work in the short run, but many people have trouble maintaining their weight loss once they come off the diet and start incorporating regular meals back into their lives. Health professionals report the most effective diet plans help people learn how to eat a healthier, better balance of foods and incorporate exercise into their daily routines.
Other Risks
WeightLossForAll.com notes that people with diabetes may be at increased risk for complications on liquid protein diets because their blood sugar levels can fluctuate dramatically. The website reports that liquid diets may also lead to muscle cramps, anemia, dizziness and menstrual abnormalities.
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