It is well established that being overweight or obese increases your chances of developing low back pain. With this in mind, it makes sense to look at weight loss as a treatment for back pain. Rapid weight loss, however, can lead to back pain in a number of ways.
malnutrition
Rapid weight loss diets often revolve around the principle of ketosis, where the body burns its own fat due to a reduction in the supply of sugar it receives to burn. Low carbohydrate diets fall into this category. When cutting out grains and fruits, you’ll lose some of the nutrients you usually get. Malnutrition affects the whole body; Muscles will not be able to function properly and may become spasms or weak, making them more easily strained.
If your diet restricts certain food groups, you may want to take supplements to make sure your body is getting the nutrients it needs. Look for foods like Ideal Protein that try to compensate for nutrient losses.
dehydration
Low-carbohydrate diets such as Atkins and the Zone are diuretic diets; They increase water loss to lose weight quickly. It is easy to become dehydrated if following one of these diets, without information or instruction.
The body is made up of about 70% water. The discs of the spine depend on water to maintain height and their ability to absorb shock. Dehydration reduces the fluid available to the spinal discs, which can lead to rapid disc degeneration, bulging or herniation. Muscles also need fluid in order to receive and absorb electrolytes. Dehydration causes muscle cramps.
If you want to follow a low-carb diet, make sure your plan includes instructions for water intake.
loss of muscle tone
Some people following a rapid weight loss plan with a reduced caloric intake are instructed to avoid strenuous activities such as exercise for a period of time as the body adjusts to reduced fuel. Being sedentary can lead to a rapid loss of muscle tone. The low back and abdominal muscles are meant to work together to support the alignment of the upper body and spine. As these muscles soften, posture may become impaired. Due to poor posture, various muscles of the back, neck and shoulders get damaged and strained.
hyper-exercise
Some people’s weight loss plans include high-intensity, regular exercise to help burn fat. If you are taking in fewer calories and burning more of them, you may be putting your health at risk.
Your body needs calories for energy and repair. If you’re working your muscles extra hard and giving them less fuel to function, you’re more vulnerable to stress. Also, not resting long enough to allow muscles to recover is one of the reasons for back pain in dieters. Intense workouts should not be done daily.
gallstones
Although the exact reason is not known, diets that are very low in fat and/or calories can disrupt the functioning of the gallbladder. This organ helps the liver in the digestion of fats. It is believed that the limited supply of fat prevents the gallbladder from contracting and releasing its bile regularly, which can lead to the development of stones as substances in the bile harden and harden.
Gallstones and bile retention cause the gallbladder to swell. Since it is located close to the muscles of the lower back and abdomen on the right side, inflammation of the organ can cause back and abdominal pain.
Warning: If Losing Weight Is Unclear
If you’re losing weight without dieting and have back pain, it could be a sign of a serious medical condition. Cancerous spinal tumors can cause weight loss, changes in appetite, fatigue, back pain, vomiting, fever, and/or neurological problems. If you’re losing weight unexpectedly, seek medical attention.
For some people, it is important to lose weight fast. For others, it is an option. Achieving a healthy weight is a goal that should be pursued for the well-being of your back and the quality and length of your life. Beware of crash diets. Look for plans that focus on nutritional needs and hydration. If you experience back pain while on a rapid weight loss diet, it could be a sign that your body isn’t getting what it needs or that you’re working out too hard.
Don’t let back pain get in the way of your weight loss goals. Eating the right diet will ensure that you lose weight quickly and safely. If possible, consult a trusted health professional about your diet plan.
