Why Short Term Diets Are Unhealthy

Are you excited to try out that new diet you saw on Instagram that promises to make you lose 8 kilos in just two weeks? Sorry to pop your hopeful bubble, but that diet might be unhealthy for you.

Nothing can be as mind-blowing as coming across a seemingly perfect diet -- it's so easy to follow and promises to get you your coveted figure in no time. Who wouldn't be tempted, especially when that big NYE party is just around the corner. But no matter how effective that diet might seem on paper, in reality, it might end up doing more harm than good to your body. Here's why: 

1. Short term diets do not have long term results

Weight loss has a boomerang effect. The faster you try to lose weight, the sooner it will come back. Fad diets restrict our food intake. Some of them tell us to eat only a certain tiny number of portions during the day, which is not sustainable in the long run. After these diets are over we get back to our normal eating habits and gain back the weight faster than we could have imagined.

2. They make your body weak

We know that in order to survive, all living beings need energy, which is essential to carry out our daily life activities. Carbohydrates are the primary source of energy in the body. Most fad diets will ask you to severely restrict the quantity of carbs you eat. While restricting your carbs intake might make you lose weight, going under a certain limit can be harmful and cause mental and physical fatigue.

3. Leads to Anxiety and Frustration

Fad diets can have psychological impacts as well. The secretion of hormones -- serotonin and dopamine -- responsible for regulating your mood and keeping you happy and positive, depends on the food and nutrients you give your body. With very low-calorie diets, Thanks to a limited calorie intake, one can start feeling frustrated and irritable.

4. Increased Risk of Diabetes

The continuous drastic and sudden increase and decrease in one's weight is called the yo-yo effect. If it happens too often, it can make the body insulin-resistant and lead to Type 2 diabetes or metabolic syndrome. The effects are worse for women, as it increases the risk of cancer, strokes and fractures.

5. Abnormal Blood Pressure

Lower calories also mean lesser sodium, potassium and salt consumption. This can lead to a sudden and dangerous drop in blood pressure. But also, conversely, diets lead to hypertension, increase in anger and anxiety - all of which naturally leads to a higher blood pressure. You don't want to subject your body to either of the two situations. 

A fit, healthy body requires hard work and eating discipline. Period. There are no shortcuts for it. Consult an expert before embarking on a new diet. A balanced diet, regular exercise and a happy environment is really the only sustainable way to go about it. So let's stop looking for the quick fix and work together to be stronger, fitter and healthier.

Disclaimer: Always consult a specialist or your own doctor for more information. NDTV does not claim responsibility for this information.