Delhi Minister Atishi hospitalised after drop in blood sugar levels; know how fasting affects your health

“Weight loss depends on various factors such as an individual’s starting weight, basal metabolic rate, existing co-morbid conditions, and overall health. Glycogen, stored in the liver and muscles, is the body’s first reserve of energy. As glycogen is bound with water, the initial weight loss is largely due to water loss. This can result in a rapid drop of 2-4 Kg within the first few days. After the glycogen stores are depleted, the body shifts to burning fat for energy,” explained Dr Pillai.

On average, the “body may lose around 0.5 to 1 kg of body weight per day during fasting”, noted Dr Pillai, adding that this “may vary based on the individual’s body composition”.

Weight loss starts within 1-2 days of commencing fasting, said neurologist Dr Sudhir Kumar, Apollo Hospitals, Hyderabad. “The weight loss continues as the total number of fasting days increases. In a research, it was found that people who fasted for five days lost about 4-6 per cent of their weight; those who fasted for seven to 10 days lost about 2-10 per cent, and those who fasted for 15 to 20 days lost 7-10 per cent. Here, we assume that people were healthy and were not suffering from any chronic diseases, including diabetes,” noted Dr Kumar.

It is important to note that most of the lost weight is regained in the subsequent three months, once normal feeding is resumed.

While fasting can lead to rapid weight loss, it comes with significant health risks like a drop in blood sugar levels.

Short-term side effects include headaches, gastritis, dehydration, electrolyte imbalance, and hypoglycemia. “The long-term effects include multiple nutrient deficiencies, muscle wasting, and organ damage,” said Dr Pillai.

The human body can survive without food for a surprisingly long time, often for several weeks depending on the individual body type. “Typically, a person can survive without water for about 3 to 7 days, depending on environmental conditions and physical activity levels,” noted Dr Pillai.

Here’s how a rise or drop in blood sugar levels affects your health (Source: Getty Images/Thinkstock)

While complete fasting can lead to rapid weight loss, it poses significant health risks and should not be undertaken lightly. “Anyone considering fasting should do so under strict medical supervision to mitigate potential dangers and ensure safety,” said Dr Pillai.

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