10 october 2024 : A viral video recently showcased a woman’s dramatic weight loss, going from 97 kg to 79 kg in two months by following a one-meal-a-day (OMAD) diet. She proudly shared that this was not just a diet but a lifestyle change. However, is it safe to adopt such an extreme eating pattern?
In an interview with HT Lifestyle, Akshata Chavan, a clinical dietitian at Wockhardt Hospitals in Mumbai, explained that the significant weight loss seen with OMAD is due to a large calorie deficit, which can lead to rapid weight reduction in the short term. However, she cautioned that while OMAD may help with short-term weight loss, its long-term safety remains uncertain.
Chavan further emphasized that drastically reducing calorie intake can deprive the body of essential nutrients, potentially causing deficiencies. Additionally, weight loss might come from muscle loss rather than fat, which can negatively impact metabolism and overall health. Consuming only one meal a day can also cause intense hunger, mood swings, and lead to overeating during the meal, often resulting in poor food choices.
She advised that for sustainable and healthy weight management, it’s important to balance weight loss with proper nutrition. A more balanced approach, such as mindful eating or moderate intermittent fasting, tends to be more effective and safer in the long run. Chavan recommended consulting a healthcare professional before making drastic dietary changes.