Which is a better diet: Paleo or intermittent fasting?

This Premium Q&A, reviewed and published, features a real conversation between an iCliniq user and a physician.

Patient's Query

Hello doctor,

I have been struggling with my weight and am trying to make healthier choices. I have cut out soda and started drinking a detox drink that is supposed to boost metabolism and aid weight loss. I am unsure if it is effective. What is your opinion on these weight-loss drinks? Are they worth the money?

Additionally, I am confused about what a healthy diet really looks like with all the conflicting information out there. Should I go low-carb, Paleo, vegan, or try intermittent fasting? I want to lose weight healthily.

Please help.

Answered by Sumiya Sulthana

Hello,

Welcome to icliniq.com.

I went through your query and understood your concern.

These drinks may replace all of your meals or just one or two (usually breakfast and lunch). Some of these plans also include snacks. These diets can cut the calories you take in and help you lose weight, but you should not stay on them for very long. Talk to your doctor before you go on a liquid diet. You will need to make sure you get enough important nutrients, like fiber and protein.

Liquid diets can be difficult enough, but there are certain people who should never consider a liquid diet. In fact, liquid diets could be dangerous if you are pregnant, breastfeeding, on certain medications, have had a recent procedure, or have intestinal or digestive issues.

The seven (7)-day liquid diet is a short-term weight loss plan that involves consuming only liquids for seven days straight. This can include juices, smoothies, soups, and broths.

It is important to note that liquid-only fasting should be undertaken for a brief duration and under medical supervision. A solely liquid diet lacks sufficient calories, vitamins, minerals, and other essential nutrients to sustain the body over an extended period.

On average, people can lose 3 to 10 pounds on a three to seven-day juice cleanse. However, some people have reported losing up to 20 pounds on a longer cleanse.

It is normal to feel nauseous, have a headache, or become irritable during the first 48 to 72 hours of your liquid diet. These bad feelings will pass as your body gets used to the diet. It is also normal to have loose stools and need to use the restroom frequently during the liquid diet.

Here are some health risks of liquid Diet:

1. Low blood sugar.

2. Hormonal imbalance.

3. Gastrointestinal problems like constipation.

4. Stress.

5. Low blood pressure.

6. Muscle loss and low energy.

7. Feeling light-headed or dizzy.

8. Too few calories.

9. Lack of important nutrients.

10. Not sustainable long-term.

11. Lack of satiety.

12. Expensive.

It is best to focus on a balanced diet for sustainable weight loss, as restrictive diets can lead to weight gain once regular eating resumes. Here are some tips for healthy eating:

1. Eat at least five portions of a variety of fruits and vegetables daily.

2. Base meals on higher-fiber starchy foods like potatoes, bread, rice, or pasta.

3. Include some dairy or dairy alternatives (such as soy drinks).

4. Eat some beans, pulses, fish, eggs, meat, and other protein sources.

5. Eat more fish, including a portion of oily fish.

6. Cut down on saturated fat and sugar.

7. Eat less salt: no more than 6g a day for adults.

8. Get active and maintain a healthy weight.

9. Stay hydrated.

I hope this helps.

Thank you.

Answered bySumiya Sulthana

Medically reviewed byiCliniq medical review team

Published At September 16, 2024
Reviewed AtSeptember 20, 2024

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