The speed at which you lose weight is determined by the amount of calories you consume and burn. Aside from unintentional weight loss conditions caused by medical disorders, such as hyperthydroidism or bulima, accelerated weight loss is generally caused by excessive exercise or insufficient diet. For best results, talk to your doctor about ways to safely balance out your weight through a proper diet and exercise regimen.
Weight Loss Basics
Quick weight loss requires a substantial calorie deficit. According to MayoClinic.com, a calorie deficit occurs when the amount of calories you use up through physical activity exceeds those that you take in through food and drink. If you are losing weight at a fast rate, it is most likely caused by an insufficient diet or a highly demanding physical routine.
Rate of Weight Loss
Each pound that you lose requires a calorie deficit of 3,500 calories. Depending on personal factors, it is generally considered safe for healthy individuals to burn up to 2 lbs. of fat in a week. If you are losing weight at a rate quicker than 2 lbs. a week, your diet and exercise routine is causing a calorie deficit greater than 7,000 calories a week, or more than 1,000 calories a day. If that is the case, you may want to increase your caloric intake or decrease the amount of physical activity you do each day.
Personal Weight Loss Tracker
The LIVESTRONG Daily Plate function provides a daily calorie goal for dieters seeking to gain or lose up to 2 lbs. a week. By entering personal information, such as your age, weight, height and activity level, the Daily Plate calculates a solid daily calorie goal that can help you gain, lose or maintain weight. Use a calculator to determine how many calories you should consume each day to reach your weight management goals; change your habits as needed.
Safety and Health Considerations
According to MedlinePlus, unintentional weight loss is a symptom of many health conditions, including AIDS, cancer, bulimia, malnutrition, depression and hyperthyroidism. If rapid weight loss continues, talk to your doctor and inquire about the different treatments available for your specific condition.
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