Dear Editor,

I need to lose 10 pounds quickly and I’m thinking of fasting to lose weight. What is the best fasting method and how long should I fast?

MaryAnn

 

Dear MaryAnn,

I don’t recommend fasting as a way to lose weight because it’s a short term fix that usually doesn’t work. Most people give up after the first few days and you will not lose 10 pounds of fat.  I assume you would fast for no longer than 7 or 8 days. Anything longer is un-healthy. Also, a fast for 7 days will slow your metabolism down because your body doesn’t know that you are dieting. The body survival mechanism kicks in and behaves as if it was out of food and starving. Therefore, it will lower the rate of calorie burn to survive.

The bottom line is to use a sensible approach to dieting. I suggest you reduce your calories intake by 500 to 700 calories and eat 5 to 6 small meals each day to keep your blood sugar stable.  Try to walk at a fast pace for 30 minutes a day, 6 times per week and you will lose anywhere from a pound to 1-1/2 pounds per week.

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