What is a crash diet?

Why fast loss is not safe

Losing more than about half a kilo to a kilo a week is not safe for most people.

Along with fat, you lose water, muscle and bone strength, and you may face:

• tiredness
• constipation
• nausea
• gallstones or gout

Very low calorie diets are meant only:

• for adults with obesity who need to lose weight for health reasons
• with a doctor watching closely

People who lose weight fast are also more likely to put it back on quickly, because the body's hormones push hunger up once the diet stops.

A pace that lasts

A slower pace, around a quarter to half a kilo a week, is safer and far more likely to last.

Instead of skipping meals, keep regular meals and trim portions gently:

• one roti less
• more sabzi
• less fried food
• fewer sweet drinks

Keep protein in every meal to protect your muscle, and stay active with walking and some strength work.

If you're thinking about a very low calorie plan, do it only with your doctor's guidance.