Rapid weight loss: Should or shouldn't?

In modern society, losing weight quickly to have a slim, toned body is one of the top concerns of many people, especially women and young people.

To achieve their goals, many people have chosen "miracle" weight loss methods that lack scientific basis. This is very dangerous because it can cause many serious health consequences.

"Double-edged sword"

After giving birth, Ms. NTT (living in Tan Trieu ward, Dong Nai province) gained 10kg compared to before pregnancy. After the maternity leave, her weight was still high, while her job at the bank required her to have a good-looking appearance. Ms. T. went online to search for information about weight loss and was introduced to some fast weight loss pills.

Yoga is a sport chosen by many people for the purpose of safe and sustainable weight loss. Illustration: Hanh Dung

“A friend introduced me to a weight loss tea, a light green powder. Hearing the “fun” advertisement, I immediately ordered a box of 10 packets for 500,000 VND. The first few days of drinking the weight loss tea, I felt like my throat was always dry and I craved water but I had no appetite and didn’t want to eat rice. Therefore, in the first 3 days of drinking the weight loss tea, I lost 1 kg. Before I could be happy about the rapid weight loss results, the following days I felt dizzy and lightheaded, and didn’t have enough energy to take care of my child,” Ms. T. confided.

Also with the desire to lose weight quickly, Ms. D.TTH (residing in Tran Bien ward, Dong Nai province) is planning to go to a cosmetic facility in Ho Chi Minh City to have liposuction.

Ms. H. said: "Seeing the attractive video clips of cosmetic facilities about the liposuction process for customers posted on social networks, I want to get liposuction to lose weight quickly."

It is undeniable that rapid weight loss brings immediate results, helping the person performing it feel more confident, especially when they need to change their appearance in a short time (such as before taking pictures, performing, attending events, etc.). However, most rapid weight loss methods reduce weight mainly due to dehydration, not real fat loss. Not to mention, some drugs and weight loss teas sold on social networks may contain banned substances that can lead to the risk of high blood pressure, heart rhythm disorders and stroke. Liposuction can also cause some complications such as bleeding, hematoma, infection, scarring, changes in abdominal sensation, uneven abdominal skin color. Some cases have complications due to anesthetics, anesthesia, which can lead to allergies, anaphylactic shock, etc.

Need to follow scientific weight loss

Master Nguyen Thi Huong, Head of the Department of Nutrition and Dietetics, Hoan My Dong Nai Hospital, said: Some methods such as intermittent fasting or short-term starch reduction can help improve blood sugar or blood lipid levels in some obese people. However, these methods are not really suitable for people with underlying diseases such as diabetes and gastritis. Excessive energy reduction (<800 kcal/day), completely eliminating starch or fat groups can cause a series of consequences such as metabolic disorders, hypoglycemia, electrolyte disorders; immune deficiency, hair loss, dark skin, irregular menstruation, increased risk of gallstones, osteoporosis and depression.

“The hospital has received many cases of patients being hospitalized due to electrolyte imbalance, physical exhaustion, and digestive disorders due to unscientific weight loss regimens. Some people lost 5-7 kg in 2 weeks but then doubled the weight when they stopped the diet. This is called the “yo-yo effect”, causing metabolic disorders and increasing the risk of chronic diseases,” shared Master Huong.

According to the recommendations of the World Health Organization and the American Dietetic Association, safe weight loss should be at the rate of 0.5-1 kg per week and must ensure adequate provision of essential nutrients for the body.

To lose weight safely, Master Nguyen Thi Huong recommends that people need to follow 3 principles. That is to gradually reduce energy (reduce 500-700 kcal/day compared to needs); increase physical activity at least 150 minutes/week, combining aerobics and resistance. In addition, it is necessary to maintain a balanced diet: enough protein, good fat, fiber, vitamins and minerals.

“People should visit and consult with medical facilities or hospitals with nutrition specialists before applying any weight loss method; especially for those with underlying diseases such as diabetes, high blood pressure or lipid disorders. Losing weight quickly on your own can lead to unpredictable consequences,” Master Huong emphasized.

Losing weight is a journey that requires time, knowledge and patience. There is no “quick fix” method that is both safe and sustainable. Instead of chasing quick results, experts recommend that those who intend to lose weight choose a healthy lifestyle, eat scientifically, limit sugar (soft drinks and cakes...), drink water first thing in the morning, eat enough green vegetables and fruits, and exercise regularly. That is the real “secret” to having a beautiful figure and a balanced, healthy body.

Hanh Dung

Source: https://baodongnai.com.vn/xa-hoi/202511/giam-can-cap-toc-nen-hay-khong-b0c2f0c/