Liquid Diets and Weight Loss

Liquid weight loss diets are becoming increasingly popular due to their fast and sustainable results. Liquid diets are designed to control portions size by restricting the quantity of caloric intake in addition to the types of calories that are consumed.

To fully grasp the mechanisms behind a low calorie diet, it is necessary to understand how the body metabolizes food, turning it into usable energy. There are three primary energy sources: protein, fat, and carbohydrates. All three are essential for proper metabolic functioning. However, the intake proportions vary depending on a person’s physical needs.

Carbohydrates are the body’s first source of energy. At any given time, most people store about three days’ worth of carbohydrate reserves. The body continues to rely on this steady stream of fuel for all of its metabolic functions. A weight loss diet works by changing the metabolic pathway, thus causing the body to delve into its own fat stores for fuel. Liquid diets are typically higher in protein with moderate fat intake and extremely low carbohydrate levels.

When most people attempt to diet, they simply cut back their caloric intake. This is actually counteractive to their weight loss goals. Their body enters starvation mode and begins clinging to every calorie that is consumed, storing it as fat for future use. If protein consumption is lacking, the body will actually use its own muscle mass as fuel. This is called catabolism.

Liquid diets avoid catabolism and metabolic decrease by monitoring the types of foods that are consumed. Limiting carbohydrates allows the pancreas to reset itself and return to a normal level of insulin production. Proper insulin production prevents the body from storing excess fat.

The strict limitations of low calorie diet require that you supplement with quality, bioavailable vitamins and minerals to ensure that your body is getting all of the essential nutrients during the weight loss diet period.