Rapid weight loss is a form of dieting that causes the body to shed more than 2 lbs. a week. They’re usually highly restrictive, limiting your caloric intake well below the recommended levels of 1,200 for women and 1,500 for men, as indicated by the National Institutes of Health. When observed without the supervision of a health-care provider, this form of weight loss increases the risk of certain health complications.
Weight Gain
One of the more common health risks of rapid weight loss is weight gain, according to the Mayo Clinic. Due to the highly restrictive nature of such diet plans, people are unable to maintain these eating and exercising regimens over the long term. You may experience an initial weight loss, but as soon as you stop following the dietary plan, you most likely gain back the weight. When you carry an excess amount of weight, you increase your risk of high blood pressure, high blood cholesterol, diabetes, heart disease, heart attack and stroke. For a weight loss program to be successful, it must encourage and support a permanent change in lifestyle.
Gallstones
The U.S. Department of Health and Human Services warns that people losing larger amounts of weight over a short period of time are at a greater risk of developing gallstones than those who experience gradual weight loss. Approximately 10 to 25 percent of people following a low-calorie diet develop this condition. When gallstones develop within the gallbladder, you may suffer from abdominal pain, back pain, shoulder pain, indigestion, nausea and vomiting. They also cause inflammation of the gallbladder and blockages in the bile duct or pancreatic duct. Though rare, gallstones can even increase your risk of gallbladder cancer.
Malnutrition
Another potential health risk of rapid weight loss is malnutrition, which is essentially a medical condition linked to a lack of nutrients. Crash diets and low-calorie diets can restrict eating habits to the point where you aren’t getting enough essential vitamins and minerals. The National Institutes of Health cautions that not getting enough food can lead to malnutrition. This can cause fatigue, dizziness, mental disabilities, physical disabilities and even death.
Dehydration
Rapid weight loss can also be accompanied by dehydration. When diets causing rapid weight loss restrict carbohydrates and calories, it can lead to fluid loss, according to the National Institutes of Health. If you suffer enough fluid loss, your body eventually experiences dehydration, which can lead to cramping, cerebral edema, seizures, kidney failure and even death.
About this Author
Dana George has been a freelance writer since 2005, penning numerous articles, web content and marketing collateral for both print and online. His articles have appeared in Healthy Knowledge magazine, Minneapolis Metro Mix, LIVESTRONG and Meefers. His writing credits include Prime Arthur, A Good Ten Acres and Truth in History.
