Despite claims from assorted fad diets that you can lose 10 lbs. or more in a week, it's really not possible to see this type of fast weight loss, according to Colorado State University. This doesn't mean that you can't lose weight fairly quickly. If you follow a calorie-restricted diet, you potentially can lose 2 lbs. in a week, or up to about 8 lbs. in a month.
Weight Loss Basics
Losing weight represents a simple theoretical calculation: Consume 3,500 calories fewer than you burn, and you'll lose 1 lb. of weight. In practice it's not always this simple, mainly because your body's metabolism automatically slows down when you begin taking in fewer calories than you burn. Still, caloric restriction represents your fastest way to lose weight.
Liquid Diets
Liquid diets probably represent the most popular ultra-low calorie diets, notes Vanderbilt University. When you follow a liquid diet, you're consuming only about 700 to 800 calories each day, all in the form of high-protein, low-fat liquid shakes fortified with vitamins and minerals. It's possible to lose up to 20 lbs. after three months on one of these diets, although most people only lose about 12 to 15 lbs.
Other Options
If a liquid diet seems too extreme for you, try cutting calories to lose weight. If you cut back so you're consuming about 1,200 calories each day, you potentially can lose 1 lb. or more each week. Over three months, that can add up to 10 to 12 lbs. of weight loss, which isn't that much less than if you followed a liquid diet.
Considerations
Regardless of which weight-loss option you choose, you'll lose weight faster if you incorporate some exercise into your routine. Exercise can help you counter the natural slowing of your metabolism as you trim calories, and can improve your overall fitness level at the same time. Remember, though, that you should talk with your doctor before starting any new diet or exercise program, especially one designed for fast weight loss.
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