Every year, countless numbers of Americans embark on fast weight loss plans. What many fail to realize is that fast weight loss is almost never healthy. Not only that, but fast weight loss is almost always regained. This article discusses the myths and realities of fast weight loss.

Fad diets and fast weight loss

Everyone has heard of such fad diets as the cabbage soup diet, the grapefruit diet, the three-day diet and more. All of them promise the same thing: within a few days, you'll lose anywhere from three to fifteen pounds.

While these claims may indeed prove to be true, what the fad diets don't tell you is that this weight you lose is almost all water. Similarly to the induction phase of a low carb diet, fad diets can induce the body to shed its glycogen (which is almost all water). Thus, the dieter does indeed lose weight fast, but the loss is soon replaced.

Fad diets like those listed above usually don't contain adequate nutrition to keep the body healthy. Even those who recommend fad diets for fast wieght loss caution that this type of diet is not a long-term solution, but should not be engaged in for more than three to seven days at a time.

Fast weight loss is temporary

Many weight loss studies have shown that the faster weight is lost, the more likely it is to return soon after. Why? Because a quick fad diet, or a few days worth of fasting, are not a permanent change in lifestyle. In order to lose weight and keep it off, your lifestyle must change to adapt the body to an entirely new way of eating and living.

The most effective diets help the dieter lose weight at a rate of one to two pounds per week. Most doctors don't recommend losing weight any faster than this.

Fast weight loss is unhealthy

Fast weight loss can put the body into a state of shock. In the most extreme cases, fast weight loss can land the dieter in a hospital. Fast weight loss strains the body's resources to cope with the sudden change in calories and nutrtion.

Many people who attempt fast weight loss can develop body image issues which can become bulimia or anorexia. These diseases are very serious and affect tens of thousands every year.

Fast weight loss isn't smart

When you're looking to lose weight, don't be seduced by promises of fast weight loss. Instead, take your time and choose a weight loss plan that is both healthy and sustainable. That way, you will lose weight and become more healthy at the same time. Your body will strengthen instead of weaken and your new lifestyle can become a permanent part of your life.