Crash Diets Are Bad For You

That's right, severe calorie restriction, master cleanses and crash dieting can take a heavy toll on your body. With summer right around the corner, you may be thinking this is exactly what you need to get fit. Here is a word of warning for those of you  who think this approach is the way to get to your goals: a repetitive cycle of yo-yo dieting, rapid weight loss and then rapid weight gain not only slows your metabolism, but can lead to some greater bodily harm.

Research suggests rapid weight loss can slow your metabolism, leading to future weight gain, and deprive your body of essential nutrients. What's more, crash diets can weaken your immune system and increase your risk of dehydration, heart palpitations, and cardiac stress. - CNN

Much like I realized when I recently followed some bodybuilding advice for a short time to lean out for a photo opportunity, cutting essential nutrients out of your diet just down right doesn't feel right. That's because it isn't right! Our body requires nutrients from all macronutrient groups in ample amounts for a reason: to maintain healthy metabolic function! Not only will extreme dieting, especially if it is chronic, take its toll on your metabolism, but it will alter your endocrine system (hormone regulation) and according to new research may lead to loss of heart muscle tissue.

Instead of cutting out entire macronutrient groups like not in-taking carbs, cutting all fats or eating extremely low amounts of protein, keep your intake of these nutrients balanced and consistent while focusing on healthy, organic food choices and portion control. Couple that with a good exercise plan and you are on your way to altering your body composition in a healthier manner. It may take a little longer to achieve your weight loss goal, which means you have to stick to these lifestyle choices for more time. Hopefully this will result in you adopting better food and exercise habits! Take it from me, someone who was doing a lot of things on the right track and altered their plan to some old school bodybuilding advice and realized that IS NOT optimal fitness! Health and wellness must come first.