In the pursuit of quick and dramatic weight loss, many of us turn to crash diets, which involve severe calorie reduction, pushing the body into a state of energy deprivation. When the body is starved of essential nutrients, it begins breaking down muscle tissue for energy, including the heart muscle. This can weaken the heart, compromising its ability to pump blood effectively and increasing the risk of cardiovascular issues.
Nutrient Deficiency and Electrolyte Imbalance
Even if you are on a calorie-restricted diet, make sure that you have enough vitamins and minerals. For instance, deficiencies in potassium and magnesium, crucial electrolytes for heart rhythm regulation, can result in irregular heartbeats and palpitations. Such imbalances may trigger more severe complications, including arrhythmias and, in extreme cases, heart failure. Sometimes, it can lead to stress cardiomyopathy, an abnormal heart condition characterised by thickening of the muscle.
Metabolic Slowdown and Yo-Yo Dieting
Crash diets often induce a metabolic slowdown as the body attempts to conserve energy during periods of extreme caloric restriction. This reduction in metabolic rate can persist even after returning to a regular diet, making it easier for individuals to regain lost weight – a phenomenon known as yo-yo dieting. The repeated cycle of rapid weight loss and regain places additional strain on the cardiovascular system, contributing to an increased risk of heart disease over time.
Impact on Cholesterol Levels
Rapid weight loss can result in a disproportionate reduction in high-density lipoprotein (HDL) cholesterol, the “good” cholesterol that helps remove other forms of cholesterol from the bloodstream. Meanwhile, low-density lipoprotein (LDL) cholesterol, the “bad” cholesterol, may not decrease as significantly. This imbalance can elevate the risk of atherosclerosis, a condition characterised by the buildup of plaque in the arteries, narrowing blood vessels and restricting blood flow to the heart.
Besides shedding fat, losing weight often involves a reduction in muscle mass, impacting the fat-to-muscle ratio. This loss of muscle can contribute to a decreased metabolic rate and weakened heart muscles, making daily activities like climbing stairs or lifting heavy objects more challenging, ultimately affecting overall quality of life.
A research in 2018 had shown how test subjects on a low calorie diet — 600 to 800 calories a day to be precise — reported better insulin and cholesterol readings after one week but an increase in heart fat levels by 44 per cent. This change, the researchers said, correlated with dysfunctions in the heart’s ability to pump blood. That’s why a sustainable calorie restriction is needed gradually so as not to stress the heart.
Sustainable, balanced approaches to weight management that prioritise long-term health over rapid results are essential for maintaining a healthy heart. Consulting healthcare professionals, such as nutritionists and physicians, can help you make informed decisions about your weight loss journey while safeguarding your cardiovascular well-being.
© The Indian Express Pvt Ltd
First published on: 19-12-2023 at 2:07 pm IST
