Is Fasting A Safe Way To Lose Weight?

Fasting and starvation is not the same thing, although those who try fasting for the first time argue that they feel the same. Fasting only deprives the body from a daily supply of fresh fuel, prompting to use the stored ones. Starvation, on the other hand, occurs when the body has used up all the stored energy and begins using essential tissues such as like muscles for an energy source. Careful monitoring should be done to halt the fasting period before starvation begins.

Fasting, while being an excellent weight loss method, does have some unpleasant side effects. These include feelings of hunger, fatigue, malaise, aches and pains, emotional disturbances due to the imbalance of certain body hormones, pimples, headaches, dizziness, nausea, allergies, bad breath, and symptoms of colds and flu. These reactions are temporary and are caused by the release of toxins stored in fat. Lower energy levels are to be expected during a fast. These side effects go away as soon as normal diet is resumed.

Fasting should be started and ended with care since sudden changes in your diet may exacerbate certain medical conditions. You should gradually reduce the amount of calories you consume several days prior to starting your fast. Heavy foods like red meat and dairy should be eliminated first, followed by high fiber foods like whole grain, nuts and beans. The day before the fast, only easily digestible foods like clear soups and bread should be eaten. What you take in during a fast depends on your dietary preference.

Fresh fruit juices, herbal teas, and clear strained soups are usually taken in during a fast. Water should never be eliminated during a fast as this can cause dangerous fluid and electrolyte imbalances which may lead to cramps, arrhythmias, and even death. Great care should also be taken when transitioning from fasting to regular diet. Start with clear liquids like soups or strained broth and gradually move on to heavier meals until your stomach can tolerate a full diet. Be careful not to overeat after a fasting period since this may outweigh all the benefits you got from fasting. Overeating after a long period of fasting may also cause bowel problems like diarrhea or constipation.

Fasting isn't the perfect weight loss plan for everyone and may in some cases even be harmful. Diabetics and pregnant women should be aware that fasting will wreak havoc with their health and should not be attempted.

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