According to nutritionists, starvation is not an effective way to reduce weight, but a harmful action for the body. However, can you distinguish any advantages of starvation in athletes?
Starvation, otherwise known as a cleansing diet, is a way to cleanse the body of harmful toxins and reduce weight. Complete fasting can be introduced only for a short time and preferably after prior consultation with a doctor. According to specialists, the effect of such weight loss is short-lived and may lead to yo-yo effect and damage to internal organs. There are three basic types of starvation, which are commonly used.
Medical starvation lasts about 6 days and is an element of medical therapy. It is ordered by a doctor and it is under his supervision that the whole process takes place. It is most commonly used for patients struggling with asthma, digestive system disorders and overweight.
The second type is a cleansing fast lasting up to two days. Its task is to remove harmful substances from the body and fight migraine, insomnia or dermatological problems. The last least recommended type of diet is a slimming starvation. Its effect is illusory and usually negatively evaluated, so it can be used for about 2 days and only in case of fighting with a large excess weight.
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Athletes who use this technique apply it under the observation of specialists. It is their guidance and recommendations that are the most important factor affecting the beneficial course and effect of starvation. However people who do not have the possibility to visit a dietetics expert should remember about several most important rules.
A hunger strike should be preceded by a few days of dietary regimen, according to which the caloric value of meals taken should be reduced each day. In this way the body adapts to new conditions and better copes with the hunger burden. During fasting one should drink only water and in large amounts so as not to dehydrate the starved body. Intense physical activity is not recommended at this time because it can worsen the condition of the body and impair its proper functioning.
In the case of regularly exercising athletes, starvation should only take the form of a one- or two-day detox. It can help cleanse the body of harmful substances and improve the work of metabolism. Athletes use this method before the official weigh-in in combat sports, fulfilling the weight limit written in the contract.
Too long and intensive starvation weakens the body, significantly slows down motor functions, reduces muscle strength and efficiency, deteriorates physical condition and respiratory capacity, so it should not be used too often and without the care of a specialist. During intermittent fasting, the body should not be heavily stressed, so for the duration of the head, it is worth planning lighter and less exhausting workouts or give up physical activity altogether. To increase the effect of detoxification, instead of exercise, you can go to the sauna and sweat out harmful substances from the body.
Thecleansing diet makes the body lose not only fat tissue, but also muscle, so athletes who care about building muscle tissue should not starve themselves for more than 24 hours. Short fasting protects against cardiovascular diseases, improves the body’s immunity, prevents allergies, reduces acne and ailments associated with atopic dermatitis, helps remove cellulite and relieves migraine pain. On the other hand, improperly conducted starvation can lead to fatty liver, electrolyte disturbances, dehydration of the body, causes fainting, dizziness, fainting, and can disrupt the proper functioning of the nervous system.
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