6 Risks Associated With Extreme Dieting
The temptation to follow syringe diets for weight loss gets accentuated by the abundance of #progresspics flooding social media these days. However, it is essential to consider various factors before delving into the regulations and limitations of extreme dieting.
Diet for weight loss, including keto and Paleo, can be alluring because they provide a clear list of foods to eat and avoid, making it appear simple to drop those extra pounds you have been trying to lose. Nonetheless, it is crucial to understand that extreme diets may be associated with more than just weight loss; they could have serious health consequences.
Hence, it is vital to be aware of the potential risks associated with extreme diets for weight loss when considering how to diet safely.
Risks You May Face With Extreme Dieting
- Gastrointestinal problems:
Experiencing constipation, gas, and stomach pain is common when you embark on a high-fibre diet. Fortunately, these side effects are usually temporary, as your body gets used to processing more fibre through your digestive system within days or weeks. Remember to stay hydrated and gradually introduce fibre into your diet.
- Reduced energy levels in weight loss diets:
A calorie-restricted diet may cause exhaustion and a reduced capacity to enjoy your favourite activities. If you cannot find the energy to exercise, it may be beneficial to boost your calorie intake to ensure your body is well taken care of. Insufficient calories could cause your metabolism to slow down, which is certainly not desirable!
- Heighten the risk of chronic diseases:
A diet low in fat but high in processed, sugary foods can cause severe nutrient deficiencies and increase the risk of chronic diseases. This is because your intake of vitamins, minerals, protein, and fibre not only gets reduced but also because our bodies require fat to absorb essential nutrients such as vitamins A, D, E, and K.
Much like almost everything in life, if you excessively limit something in your diet, your desire for it will likely increase manifold. Although low-carb and low-fat diets are effective for weight loss, we recommend embracing a lifestyle approach instead of a "quick fix" diet plan to prevent cravings, binge eating, and the potential for weight regain.
The Bottom Line
These weight loss diets may have proven successful for some individuals, but we caution against trying them without guidance. If you value a structured diet plan, we enthusiastically recommend the Mediterranean Diet for weight loss and overall health improvement. The Mediterranean Diet prioritises plant-based foods, lean proteins, whole grains, and healthy fats with occasional treats in moderation. Besides being a safer dieting approach, the Mediterranean Diet also supports weight maintenance, unlike the rapid regain often linked to crash diets. By providing coverage for regular check-ups and dietary counseling, health insurance can ensure you stay on track with your weight loss and health goals.