What Are We Losing When We Lose Weight?

"Losing weight" is a term that has been widely misused by many. What does "losing weight" actually means? There are a lot of substance in our body and all of them contribute to our overall weight. In order to lose weight, it is important to know which "substance" in our body we are losing.

Hence, losing weight can mean:

1. Losing muscle mass. Muscles are important in helping us do work, move around and play. Muscles also help us to burn off energy and fats in our body. If you lose your muscle mass, then there wouldn't be enough muscles to help you burn off those fats, isn't it?


2. Losing water. Have you been going to saunas to sweat it all out? Yes you do lose weight, but all that you are losing is just water. This weight can be gained back when you drink water, causing a yo-yo weight loss effect. Losing too much water too fast and too often will leave you dehydrated and can even be fatal.
    
3. Losing large amounts of stool. Some may know this type of process as "detoxification. Detox (short for detoxification) diets are extreme weight loss diet plans that claim to flush toxic chemicals from your body. Some people turn to laxatives to detox as well. This will disrupt the digestive system and can cause abdomen related complications. Short-term problems associated with laxative abuse include dehydration and hemorrhoids. Long term effects include intestinal paralysis, renal failure, irritable bowel syndrome (IBS), and even pancreatitis.


4. Losing fats. Of course, losing fats (especially visceral fats) is the most ideal and healthiest way to lose weight. Unwanted fats are harmful to our body and that should be the main target for effective weight loss. 

With the connotations of weight loss listed above, which one do you think you are losing? If you are unsure, we are here to provide a detailed health analysis for you with our in-house consultants. 

Visit us at http://www.facebook.com/RechargeWithZ.




Next article: Unhealthy vs Healthy weight loss methods