Losing weight fast is widely regarded as really unhealthy. But researchers in Louisiana are questioning this notion, according to this article on Calorie Lab. In recent studies, diet very low in calories (we're talking 890 calories a day here) were shown to be and effective and fast way to lose weight without leading to dangerous loss of bone density.

I don't know about you but I'm still not convinced. There's no way eating less than 1000 calories a day can be good for you.

However, in related news, the same article points out that weight loss surgery like gastric bypass surgery, can lead to extensive bone loss. Researchers say that taking higher doses of supplements may help.

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If your a female of middle age, you might want to think about losing weight at a normal rate (over the course of a year) instead of in a month or so. According to a new study, women who lose weight fast may be more prone to dementia and diseases like Alzheimer's 20 years later.

Sounds like an odd connection to me, but that was the conclusion. The 481 dementia patients studied were compared against those without dementia (same age levels) and that is when the fast weight loss scenario was discovered as a commonality.

I suppose this is yet another reason to lose weight in gradual, healthy fashion (for health) instead of rapid fashion (for looks, usually). Do you agree?

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You've overindulged over the holiday and you just have to get into that slinky black dress by New Year's...what do you do? According to this article, fasting has become a trendy way to shed pounds quickly. But is it safe?

The consensus seems to be that, for a a few days, fasting is harmless, as long as you drink plenty of fluids. After a week, the body -- which needs protein -- will start to break down muscle to get much needed amino acids. What about the most important muscle, your heart? Yep, your body will go after that too, and long term fasting can lead to heart damage.

Is it worth it? Does fasting really work? Obviously, going on an ultra low or no calorie diet for a few days will result in weight loss. However, most of it will be fluid and what comes off quickly, goes right back on just as fast. Better, in my opinion, to go the old fashioned route of cutting back on junk and exercising more.

As for the rumor that fasting "cleanses" the body of impurities, this article debunks that myth. Your liver, kidneys, lungs, and skin already have that job, and do it well.

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