15 kg in 50 days? Nutritionist reveals why viral weight loss hacks are dangerous

Can you really lose 15 kg in 50 days?

The short answer: No, not safely.

According to Apte, “Losing 15 kg within 50 days is not a realistic and sustainable aim. It only leeches water weight and does not burn fat.”

Such rapid weight loss often comes from extreme calorie restriction, which can backfire. “Immediate cut down on calories can also lead to serious nutrient deficiencies and muscle loss, leading to fatigue, irritability and sudden drop in immunity,” she warns.

Why extreme diets don’t work long-term

Many of these rules focus only on food, but ignore the body’s natural rhythm.

“One must understand that to lose weight, you have to maintain circadian rhythm: sleeping on time and waking up on time to maintain your hormonal as well as digestive health,” Apte explains.

This means your sleep cycle, stress levels, and routine are just as important as your diet.

To lose weight, one must follow one’s body’s natural rhythm, including sleeping and waking on time to support healthy hormones and digestion (Image: Unsplash)

What about detox drinks and quick fixes?

From jeera water and amla shots to weekly detox days, several tips promise faster results—but they’re not magic.

“Detox water only helps to boost your metabolism, leading to improved digestion, but it alone cannot help you lose weight,” she says.

Similarly, rules like carb cycling, cutting chai, or adding spices may support better habits—but they don’t directly lead to fat loss, especially in such a short time.

 

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Are any of these rules useful at all?

Some suggestions—like increasing vegetables, adding protein, controlling oil intake, eating within a time window, and avoiding processed foods—can help improve overall eating habits.

However, Apte cautions against following them blindly. “Every individual is different—a specific generic diet plan may not suit all.”

The way your body digests and responds to food varies, which is why personalised plans matter more than viral checklists.

What is a healthy way to lose weight?

Instead of extreme targets, a gradual approach is key.

“500 gm to 1 kg weight loss per week can be considered healthy weight loss with proper lifestyle changes,” Apte says.

She also stresses that food alone isn’t enough.

“Diet won’t work. Physical activity and managing stress are equally important for a smooth weight loss journey.”

In essence, while such viral rules can act as a basic habit guide, expecting drastic results in days is unrealistic. Sustainable weight loss comes from consistent lifestyle changes, not shortcuts.