If you're obese, losing a lot of weight under the right conditions means you're taking a big step to increasing your odds of leading a longer, healthier life. However, if you suddenly start losing weight and have not been engaged in a diet or exercise plan, there may be cause for concern. Unexplained weight loss is a symptom of numerous diseases and health conditions. The excessive weight loss seen in patients with anorexia nervosa is deadly.
Healthy Weight Loss
If you're trying to lose weight, talk to a medical professional about setting a healthy weight goal based on your current weight, height, age and gender. A good rule of thumb when it comes to weight loss is to lose no more than 1 to 2 lbs. a week. Losing weight too quickly is harmful to your health, and weight that comes off quickly tends to return quickly, too. Trimming 500 calories a day from your diet helps you lose about 1 lb. a week. Losing weight helps your heart and blood pressure and reduces your risk of developing diabetes and some cancers.
Unexplained Weight Loss
If you're not actively dieting or exercising and pounds are falling away, it may be time to see your doctor. Unexplained weight loss may be a symptom of conditions such as cancer, gastrointestinal diseases, infection, endocrine disorders, cardiovascular and lung disease, kidney disease or neurological illness, drug abuse, chronic diarrhea, AIDS or malnutrition. Some medications cause weight loss, and anxiety, stress and depression affect your weight. A change in appetite as you age may lead to weight loss, too.
Anorexia Nervosa
People with anorexia nervosa lose weight as they become obsessed with being thin and terrified of gaining weight. The illness is most common among teenage girls who think they're fat, even when they become very thin, but it can also occur in teenage boys and adult men and women. People with anorexia nervosa skip meals or refuse to eat, exercise constantly and wear baggy clothes. They use food as a way to deal with emotional issues. If anorexia becomes severe, family support and medical care are critical to recovery.
Warnings
Consult with your doctor if you can't figure out why you're losing weight. MayoClinic.com report it's especially important to seek medical help if you lose as much as 10 lbs. or 5 percent of your body weight within six to 12 months. If you suspect someone is suffering from anorexia nervosa, she may deny there's a problem and beg or lie to avoid food. It may be up to family and friends to get her the medical help she needs.
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