There are a number of situations outside the typical realm of dieting that involve the rapid loss of weight. In wrestling, for example, athletes may try to move down to a lower weight class by the rapid loss of weight. Another situation occurs in conjunction with a very low-calorie diet (VLCD). A very low-calorie diet is a physician-monitored diet that is designed for obese patients. In a very low-calorie diet, a commercially prepared formula, typically liquid shakes or bars, replaces all other forms of food. These diets, according to The National Institute of Diabetes and Digestive and Kidney Diseases, typically consist of 800 calories per day or less. However, there are risks associated with losing too much weight too quickly.
Diet Side Effects
Patients who have been on a very low-calorie diet for 4 to 16 weeks may experience negative side effects such as nausea, constipation, diarrhea and fatigue. They can also form gallstones. Gallstones are more likely in people who are obese, but they occur frequently during the rapid loss of weight. This may be due to increased cholesterol levels in the gallbladder and a decreased ability of the gallbladder to contract and expel bile. There are medications available to help prevent the formation of gallstones during rapid weight loss.
Method of Weight Loss
Some wrestlers can take rapid weight loss too far. According to the Journal of the American Medical Association, three wrestlers died in 1998 while trying to lose weight rapidly. These athletes were preparing to be weighed for weight classification prior to a wrestling match. They cut down on their food and fluid intakes and tried to perspire excessively to lose weight by wearing vapor-impermeable suits and exercising in hot environments. These three athletes experienced cardiovascular arrest.
Other Dangers
Other dangers associated with rapid weight loss include lethargy, sleepiness and mood swings. There can be diminished short-term memory and academic performance. Testosterone levels and endurance can be lowered. There can be a decreased rate of growth and a lessened resistance to infection. The body may be less able to regulate temperature, which increases the risk of heat-related problems.
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