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  • Q&A with Australian Health Practitioners

    Is it bad to loose to much weight at once?

    Related Topic
    Weight Management
    6 months ago I was weighing 121kgs at the age of 19. I decided to turn my life around and feel sexy and beautiful again. In two weeks I lost 20kgs and my skin is starting to sag. I now weigh 85kgs and just want to know if loosing that much is bad for the short amount of time?
    • 1 answer
    • Arlene Normand
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  • Arlene Normand

    Dietitian

    Arlene is a registered practising dietitian, with a private practice in the Eastern Suburbs of Sydney, and has built a strong business over the last … View Profile

    Your weight loss is extremely rapid. 10 kg in a week is not recommended. I cannot imagine how you achieved a loss of 20 kg in 2 weeks. If you do decide to lose weight so quickly you should be under the care of your doctor. Extreme weight loss can occur on a very low-calorie diet which is a physician-monitored diet that is designed for obese patients. In a very low-calorie diet, a commercially prepared formula, typically liquid shakes or bars, replaces all other forms of food. These diets typically consist of 800 calories per day or less. However, there are risks associated with losing too much weight too quickly.
    People who have been on a very low-calorie diet for 4 to 16 weeks may experience negative side effects such as nausea, constipation, diarrhoea and fatigue. They can also form gallstones. Gallstones are more likely in people who are obese, but they occur frequently during the rapid loss of weight. This may be due to increased cholesterol levels in the gallbladder and a decreased ability of the gallbladder to contract and expel bile. There are medications available to help prevent the formation of gallstones during rapid weight loss.
    Other dangers associated with rapid weight loss include lethargy, sleepiness and mood swings. There can be diminished short-term memory and academic performance. Testosterone levels and endurance can be lowered. There can be a decreased rate of growth and a lessened resistance to infection. The body may be less able to regulate temperature, which increases the risk of heat-related problems. Cardiac complications can also occur.
    I recommend you see a qualified Dietitian who can monitor your weight and give you a sensible eating plan.

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