A crash diet is a diet that severely limits or totally eliminates at least one of the major food groups. This type of diet often promises rapid weight loss without having to exercise. While this may seem ideal for a dieter seeking instant results, there are some serious complications that can occur as a result of crash dieting. By focusing on a healthy diet and exercise program instead of a crash diet, you can minimize the risk of these dangers.
Yo-Yo Dieting
Because of the chance of regaining the weight once you are off of the crash diet, you will more than likely decide to diet again to lose the weight again. This is called yo-yo dieting, which can increase your risk of sagging skin and medical complications. It is also possible that after going through the yo-yo diet cycle for a while, the dieter may get tired of the cycle and gain weight, possibly becoming obese.
Mental Health Disorders
According to Epigee, mental health disorders are possible for people who use a crash diet to lose weight. Dealing with food cravings and a roller coaster of emotions can cause depression. Once the weight is regained, bulimia and anorexia can become problems.
Malnutrition
Starvation is a form of malnutrition. When you crash diet, you are depriving your body of specific food groups and severely limiting your calorie intake. This can lead to your body going into starvation mode. Signs of malnutrition include rapid weight loss, fatigue and dizziness. It is possible, however, to be malnourished without having any symptoms of the condition, states the National Institutes of Health.
Bone Conditions
Many crash diets limit foods that contain calcium. When your body doesn't get the calcium it needs on a daily basis, you may suffer from osteoporosis or rickets. These conditions causes your bones to become brittle, which increases your risk of broken and fractured bones. The hips and spine may be affected, making mobility difficult.
Organ Damage
Crash dieting affects the major organs of the body because these organs rely on energy and nutrients from the daily diet to function properly. In severe cases, the body may begin to use the muscles that make up the actual organ in order to help the brain survive. This organ damage can lead to kidney or liver failure, stroke and heart attacks.
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