When you are desperate to lose weight quickly, you may be willing to use extreme measures to reach your goals. Many dieters who are looking to lose weight as quickly as possible may choose to try unhealthful diets that restrict calories to dangerous levels. Even though those diets may help to lose weight at a rapid pace, numerous health risks outweigh the weight loss benefits.
Gallstones
One of the biggest problems that may occur as the result of rapid weight loss is the development of gallstones. According to the National Digestive Diseases Information Clearinghouse, gallstones develop in your gallbladder and appear as small pebble-like substances. Gallstones form when bile hardens and becomes a stone-like material. Rapid weight loss increases your risk of gallstones because your liver will be secreting more cholesterol into bile as your body metabolizes fat. Symptoms of gallstones include pain in the upper right abdomen that lasts for several hours, pain under the right shoulder and between the shoulder blades. If you think you have gallstones, contact your doctor for tests. Ultrasound or CT scans can detect gallstones. The majority of patients who are diagnosed with gallstones and have frequent attacks require surgery for gallbladder removal.
Gastrointestinal Effects
An extreme diet that gives you a low caloric intake may cause numerous issues with your gastrointestinal system, according to the Weight Control Information Network. Nausea is often the result of not feeding your body when it is hungry, causing you to go into starvation mode. You may experience constipation if your body is not receiving the amount of nutrients that it needs or the proper types of nutrients to stay regular, such as fiber. Many people who lose weight quickly also experience gas. This is often the result of the food that you eat moving through the intestines at a faster pace than usual. The Weight Control Information Network states that these effects are usually temporary and correct themselves within a few weeks.
Loss of Lean Muscle Mass
Lean muscle mass is important to your body. Without lean muscles, your metabolism naturally slows down, making it harder for your body to burn fat. Lean muscle mass also works to protect your bones. When you lose weight at a rapid pace, your muscle mass suffers. Once you reach starvation mode, the lean muscle becomes a target for the body to draw from to sustain energy. If you notice any aches or pains that are abnormal following your weight loss, visit your doctor.
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