The internet offers countless dietary suggestions for quick and lasting weight loss. However, many of these diets are fads that fail to produce sustainable results and, in some cases, even lead to adverse outcomes.
Water fasting is an eating pattern that involves abstaining from all food and drinking only water for a few days. A new study from the University of Illinois at Chicago highlights its limitations, showing that while it may initially help with weight loss, lost calories are quickly regained. Therefore, its benefits do not last long.
The research results are published in the journal Nutrition Reviews. Lead author Krista Varady says she’s not entirely against the diet, but it’s best to seek medical supervision in case anyone wants to try it.
“My overall conclusion is, I think you could give it a try, but it seems like a lot of work, and all those metabolic benefits go away,” Varady said. Earth.com.
What particularly fascinated the research team was the growing interest in the matter from the press. The idea rests on some ancient beliefs that this method of fasting increases metabolic rate and cholesterol levels.
They analyzed existing research on the topic, some of which focused on Buchinger fasting—a popular European variant of fasting that involves consuming very small amounts of juice and soup each day.
When people fast, they tend to lose weight, especially in the short term. For example, fasting for five days can result in a 4% to 6% weight loss. If someone fasts for 7 to 10 days, they may lose about 2% to 10% of their body weight, and if they fast for a longer period of time, such as 15 to 20 days, the weight loss may be as high as 7% to 10%.
History of water fasting
Water fasting has a long history spanning different cultures and belief systems. It has been around for centuries, often rooted in spiritual and religious traditions. Ancient healing systems and traditional medicine also utilize water fasting as a health-promoting treatment. health and wellbeing.
the bottom line
Water fasting is growing in popularity and should be approached with caution as it is considered extreme and requires medical supervision. Recent research suggests that weight loss benefits may be temporary, leading to rapid weight regain, while metabolic advantages may not last. It is recommended to seek professional guidance before considering water fasting.
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Published by Medicaldaily.com