Crash Diets Can Lead to More than Weight Loss

With obesity being one of the most significant problems in the US, many people are looking for a quick fix. From late night infomercial gadgets to drastic medical procedures and even extreme diets, millions of obese men and women have tried it all. A dangerous method is crash diets that promise results in weeks. Many of these diets are sworn upon by celebrities and athletes to be effective. However, crash diets do more than reduce weight and are putting dieters at risk.

What is a Crash Diet?

A crash diet differs from many other foods as a temporary solution to a long term problem. The summer months often bring the most cases of failed crash diets as people are shaping up for sun-soaked days at the beach.  Crash diets often involve starving yourself and result in a quick weight loss. After the crash diet, you will often return to your regular meals, and you gain the weight back.

Health Risks Associated with Crash Diets:

It is not news that a crash diet is unhealthy; after all, it is called a crash diet. Aside from depriving your body of the needed nutrients to function, there are also health risks that can develop from crash diets. Some of these risks include:

• • Heart, kidney, liver and brain damage

• • Malnutrition
  • Depression
  • Anorexia
  • Bulimia

• • Vitamin deficiency

• • Strokes
  • Osteoporosis

• Loss in muscle mass

Each year fatalities occur due to crash diets. Most often, the heart wastes away as the dieter consumes low-calorie meals for extended periods. Those who are most at risk are dieters that have tried most of the fad diets and often turn to more extreme diets to see results quickly.

Proper Diet and Nutrition:

Many believe that dieting is the best way to reduce weight. This is true if the diet still offers the nutrients your body needs to function correctly. However, the most effective way to lose weight is by re-learn how to eat correctly.  Though this isn’t the fastest way to lose weight, a proper diet and exercise routine will offer the best results and a life-long lifestyle to keep the weight off.

If you are looking for faster results, eating correctly, exercising, and responsible use of dietary aids can assist in more rapid weight loss. However, the problem will always be there until you understand what your body needs and change the way you eat and live. Before starting any diet, consult your doctor for the menu that will work best for you based on how you live, your work schedule, and your current health conditions.

Diets are often abused, misunderstood, or completely un-effective for many people. Until you learn to eat appropriately, create a workout routine, and stick with it, quick diets will only put you at risk and are often just a temporary weight loss.