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Water Fasting For Weight Loss

water fasting for weight loss

 

In a world where everything keeps changing in nanoseconds, would you believe that there is a practice that has stood the test of time leaving health enthusiasts and researchers in awe? Water Fasting, of course, is something that has been around for you. While fasting in various forms has been practiced for health and spiritual purposes for millennia, the idea of adopting water fasting as a potent weight-loss method has received a lot of momentum recently. However, it is important to make sure that water fasting is carried out safely by preparing properly and choosing a good time to go without food. This comprehensive guide will take you through the world of water fasting through weight loss, by also exploring the ideal ways to carry out water fasting, the benefits of water fasting, and the negative health effects of water fasting. By the end of this article, you will find yourself relieved from all your queries about water fasting such as Is water fasting good for weight loss and whether water fasting is a healthy choice. 

What is Water Fasting

Before we jump right to the details, it is important to first understand what is water fasting. Water fasting is a type of fasting where a person does not take any food and drinks just water. People usually engage in water fasting to reduce body weight, for religious or spiritual purposes, or in an effort to treat specific health issues. There is no specific amount of time that a water fast should last, although according to medical recommendations, the absolute maximum amount of time is usually between 24 hours and 3 days.


Ideal Ways to Do Water Fasting 

As there is always a perfect way to go about everything, there are a few ideal ways to do water fasting that you should be aware of. It should be done carefully and ideally under the supervision of a healthcare professional because it carries significant health hazards, especially if done incorrectly. Here are a few ideal ways to do Water fasting: 

  • Consult a Healthcare Professional

  • Before you start your water fasting, speak with a healthcare professional to evaluate your health and advise you on whether going on a water fast is safe for you. 

  • Start Slowly

  • Before attempting an extended water fast, consider starting with shorter fasts, such as intermittent fasting (12–16 hours of fasting) or a 24-hour fast.

  • Pick the Right Moment

  • Schedule your water fast for a time when you can relax and reduce your stress levels both physically and mentally. Avoid undertaking things that need a lot of physical or mental effort.

  • Keep Hydrated

  • It's important to drink plenty of water throughout a water fast to keep yourself hydrated. Aim for 8 to 10 glasses of water a day, minimum. 

  • Take Note of Your Body

  • During the fast, pay special attention to how your body is feeling. Consider breaking the fast and getting medical help if you experience acute discomfort, nausea, or extreme weakness.

  • Break the fast with care

  • Start with modest, readily absorbed items after breaking your fast, like fruit or a simple salad. Avoid fatty, hefty meals because they can be difficult for your digestive system.

    Benefits of Doing Water Fasting

    Now that we are good with ideal ways to do water fasting, let us look at the benefits of doing water fasting. 

    • Rapid initial weight reduction as a result of calorie restriction.
    • Enhancing the body's response to insulin may improve insulin sensitivity, which could help manage diabetes.
    • Short-term fasting might be advantageous for people who have specific disorders as risk factors like heart conditions, high blood pressure, and elevated cholesterol.

    Is Water Fasting Good for Weight Loss

    We have seen weight loss as a benefit of water fasting but let us be sure if water fasting is good for weight loss. Because water fasting substantially reduces calorie intake, it frequently causes an immediate initial drop in body weight, which might result in weight loss. However, it's critical to comprehend the physics of weight reduction while on a water fast as well as any potential risks. 

    Is Water Fasting a Healthy Choice for You

    Just like our personalities, our bodies are also built uniquely. When you go about water fasting, it is mandatory to understand if water fasting is a healthy choice for you. For the majority of people, water fasting is not generally regarded as a healthy option, particularly when done for a lengthy period of time. Although some supporters of water fasting assert that it may have health benefits, it's vital to compare these claims with any risks or disadvantages that may come with it. It is always advisable to consult a health specialist before you go about water fasting, considering the unique needs of your body. 

    What are the Negative Health Effects of Water Fasting

    As we have come across a few benefits of water fasting, is it not significant to look at the negative health effects of water fasting? Water fasting can be harmful to your health in a number of ways, especially if you do it improperly, without a doctor's supervision, or for a lengthy period of time. Some potential negative health effects include: 

  • Nutrient Deficiency 

  • Water fasting may cause deficiencies in critical vitamins and minerals, such as electrolytes (sodium, potassium, and magnesium), vitamins (such as B vitamins and vitamin C), and minerals (like calcium and iron), which restrict all calorie intake.

  • Muscle Loss

  • Extended water fasting results in the breakdown of muscle tissues for energy, which leads to muscle loss and weakness. 

  • Drop in Blood Sugar

  • Water fasting can lead to an extreme drop in blood sugar called Hypoglycemia

  • Dehydration

  • Deficiency of proper hydration may lead to symptoms like dizziness, dry mouth, and decreased urine output. 

    FAQs

    How much weight can you lose with water fasting?

    An extreme water fast can help you reduce your weight rapidly, but it might also come with a few drawbacks. Water fast, by no means is considered safe or sustainable as cutting all calories may result in weight loss that exceeds the safe, expert-recommended pace of 1 to 12 pounds per week., according to studies. Your body composition also has to do a lot with your metabolism, let alone losing weight. 

    Will water fasting help you lose weight in the long term?

    No, Water fasting might not help you lose weight in the long term according to a new study conducted by the University of Illinois Chicago. It highlights that, even though water fasting may initially contribute to weight loss, the lost calories are quickly regained resulting in only short-term weight loss. 


    Take Away

    A healthy body always keeps you on track. And always remember, nobody knows your body and its unique needs better than you. If you are about to embark on a journey of water fasting for weight loss, be conscious of your body and its needs. Do not forget to consult a healthcare expert for further recommendations.

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