As the euphoria of your impending nuptials fills the air, the desire to achieve that picture-perfect look for the big day often leads many brides and grooms to consider crash diets. The allure of rapid weight loss in a short span may seem tempting, but beneath the surface, these quick fixes harbour hidden dangers that could cast a shadow over your journey to the altar.
According to Pratiksha Kadam, consultant dietitian at Kokilaben Dhirubhai Ambani Hospital Navi Mumbaicrash diets pose serious risks to heart health, jeopardising the well-being of couples before their wedding day.
Rapid weight loss can lead to nutritional deficiencies, electrolyte imbalances, and muscle loss, stressing the cardiovascular system, she explained, adding that these diets often lack essential nutrients, triggering adverse effects like arrhythmias and weakening the heart muscle. “They may exacerbate existing conditions like hypertension or cholesterol abnormalities,” Kadam told indianexpress.com in an interaction.
Dr Smruti Hindaria, consultant cardiac surgeon at Ruby Hall Clinic Puneexplained that an imbalance of electrolytes in your body while on a crash diet, is behind this. “Electrolytes are essential for the integrity and proper operation of cells. Should the latter fail, it wouldn’t take long for the body as a whole to follow suit.”
Your body loses vital nutrients required for optimal operation when you drastically reduce your weight. Furthermore, you may be more susceptible to damage or acquire certain health disorders if you are deficient in certain nutrients, such as calcium and vitamin D. Anemia is one such illness linked to a nutritional shortage, said Dr Hindaria.
You can also form gallstones she added. “They develop when the gallbladder’s digestive fluids aren’t released due to an insufficient amount of food for digestion.”
What are some sustainable and health-conscious alternatives to a crash diet?
Couples can prioritise sustainable and health-conscious alternatives to attain desired fitness levels before tying the knot.
Opting for a balanced diet rich in whole foods, incorporating regular physical activity, and maintaining proper hydration supports gradual, long-term weight management.
Seeking guidance from a registered dietitian or fitness professional ensures personalised plans, fostering overall well-being.
By emphasising lifestyle changes over quick fixes, couples can embark on a journey that not only enhances their physical health but also promotes sustainable habits for a fulfilling life together.
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First published on: 11-12-2023 at 09:30 IST
