The doctor warned about the serious consequences of severe dietary restrictions

Severe dietary restrictions can lead to serious disruptions in the body, rather than the desired slimness. Thus, eliminating carbohydrates deprives the body of its main source of energy, which is manifested by weakness, irritability, and even problems with the cardiovascular system and kidneys. On May 4, Mariana Jutova, a nutritionist at JSC "Medicine" (Academician Roitberg Clinic), told Izvestia about this.

She warned that extreme diets such as monopation, complete abstinence from carbohydrates or fats, as well as prolonged starvation become a real stress for the body. The lack of fiber contained in carbohydrate products disrupts digestion and provokes constipation. In addition, a sharp reduction in calories slows down the metabolism, which is why, after returning to the usual diet, the lost kilograms often return in excess.

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Jutova noted that intermittent fasting, which is growing in popularity every day, also deserves attention.

"Schemes like 16/8 (16 hours of fasting and 8 hours for eating) can be effective, but only with the right approach. If you lean on fast food and sweets during the allowed hours, the result will be the opposite — overeating and blood sugar spikes," the doctor clarified.

She added that tougher options, such as 20/4, can trigger breakdowns when, after a long period of abstinence, a person eats twice as much as the norm. This not only negates all efforts, but also increases cholesterol levels, disrupts the digestive tract and worsens overall well-being.

According to the expert, an integrated approach is needed for safe weight loss. It is important to eat a varied diet, including vegetables, fruits, proteins, healthy fats, and complex carbohydrates. Regular meals will help to avoid sudden attacks of hunger and subsequent overeating. Physical activity contributes not only to burning calories, but also to maintaining body tone. Adequate sleep and rest are equally important, as lack of sleep increases the level of cortisol— a hormone that prevents weight loss.

"The main rule is to avoid extremes. The best diet is not short—term restrictions, but a balanced diet that can be followed for years without harm to health. If in doubt, it is worth consulting with a nutritionist to choose an individual and safe plan. After all, health is more important than quick but dangerous results," Jutova said.

Earlier, on October 6, nutritionist Larisa Gabdulkhakova told Izvestia who benefits and harms fasting. According to her, intermittent fasting for weight loss is not suitable for everyone.