Is A Weight Loss Fast The Right Choice For Everybody?

By Erica Grant


How can you know if fasting for weight loss actually works or if it is just the latest of hype diets being sold by companies who only want to turn a profit? Programs such as these can be found in a number of versions. Some use detox methods involving pepper and lemon, others use various combinations of fruit and vegetable juices. All of these programs typically encourage drinking tons of water and other natural fluids but restrict or fully eliminate solid foods for some or all of the day and night.

Many medical professionals agree on the fact that fasting for short periods of time is not typically dangerous for most people. It can actually jump start your diet and lead to quick results and helping to stay more highly motivated. If you follow this type of plan for extended periods however, you need to be aware that it should only be done for a week or less, unless your physician advises otherwise. A majority of the time, even two or three days can create a drastic impact on how you look and feel.

A fast plan has many benefits. They can help you lose weight but they also make you healthier as long as you do not have any existing medical conditions that would cause this activity to be risky. Women who are pregnant or nursing should avoid this because of their increased caloric and nutrient needs during these periods. If you have kidney disease, liver function problems, cancer, diabetes, or other health problems then you should not start any new diet plan or weight loss program without consulting a doctor.

The experience that you have with this method can vary widely. Some people have no side effects and they do not tend to react poorly when solid foods are cut out for a few days. Others may have headaches, feel weak or have a lack of energy, and some may feel hungry constantly. There are some things that you can do if you want to continue fasting and you have any of these effects.

Lack of energy and feelings of fatigue are common issues when you restrict food intake. Try to avoid activities that require a lot of energy and movement at a high pace. This will help to conserve your strength for the activities that must get done. Drinking fluids such as water and green tea and juices can help you to stay more comfortable and fight away the hunger. Peppermint tea can help fight headaches and chamomile tea is efficient at helping you let go of stress and relax.




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