Rapid weight loss can be intentional or unintentional. To lose weight safely and permanently, aim to lose 1 to 2 lbs. per week through regular exercise and a healthy, balanced diet. If you unintentionally lose more than 5 percent of your body weight in a six- to 12-month period, consult a medical professional.
Very Low-calorie Diets
A very low-calorie diet provides about 800 calories daily in the form of specially-prepared liquids and bars, or lean protein foods such as chicken and fish. A very low-calorie diet causes rapid weight loss at a rate of around 3 to 5 lbs. weekly, with an average loss of 44 pounds over 12 weeks. Very low-calorie diets are only suitable for obese patients with a body mass index of over 30 and associated health risks such as diabetes, high blood pressure and high cholesterol. Very low-calorie diets are intended for use as part of a weight-loss treatment program carried out only under medical supervision.
Hyperthyroidism
Hyperthyroidism, or an overactive thyroid gland, is when the thyroid gland secretes excessive amounts of the hormone thyroxine. Increased thyroxine production can speed up the body's metabolism and cause sudden and significant weight loss. Hyperthyroidism tends to be hereditary and is more common in women than men. Hyperthyroidism is usually treated effectively with anti-thyroid medications and radioactive iodine, according to MayoClinic.com.
Anorexia Nervosa
Anorexia nervosa is characterized by a fear of becoming fat, an extreme desire to be thin and a distorted body image. People with anorexia nervosa do not consider themselves thin enough regardless of how much weight they lose or how underweight they become. Anorexia sufferers go to extreme measures to lose weight including drastic dieting, self-starvation, purging and over-exercising. People with anorexia may experience dramatic, rapid weight loss and reach a dangerously low body weight which can be life-threatening. Treatment and support for anorexia is available and a full recovery is possible.
Drug Abuse
Occasional, recreational drug use often becomes more regular. Frequent drug use causes changes in the brain, leading to drug cravings and addiction. Abuse of drugs including heroin, cocaine, methamphetamine, marijuana, sleeping pills and painkillers may cause loss of appetite, sudden weight loss and deteriorating physical appearance. Treatment and support for drug abuse is available. The changes to the brain caused by drug addiction can be reversed and it is possible to live a drug-free life, reports Helpguide.org.
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