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Is it possible to lose 4 pounds in a day?
It is not possible to lose 4 pounds in a day. This type of rapid weight loss is considered unsafe and unhealthy for most people.
It takes a calorie deficit of 3500 to lose a pound of fat. You need a higher calorie deficit of 14,000 to lose 4 pounds. You have to create a calorie deficit of 14000 to lose 4 pounds in a day. It is fourteen times more than the moderate calorie reduction of 500 – 1000 most experts recommend. It’s an impossible task for most people, even with the combined efforts of diet and exercise.
Most adults need to eat at least 2000 – 2500 calories to sustain their current weight. A moderate reduction of at least 500 is what you need to start losing weight. However, to lose 4 pounds in a day, you need to burn the extra 13,500 calories with exercise.
Cardio and weight training exercises only burn a moderate amount of calories per session. A 185-pounds person burns 420-calories in 30 minutes, swimming vigorously.
This person would have to swim for at least 16 hours to burn enough calories to lose 4 pounds in a day. An impossible realistic goal. Not only due to the intensity but also for the time required. Moreover, it’s almost impossible to sustain such an intense workout when eating at a caloric deficit.
On average, expect to lose 4 pounds in 2 – 4 weeks. It is a safe amount of time to lose this weight.
Safe and healthy weight loss.
Weight loss occurs when you eat less than the body needs. This results in a calorie deficit as the body is forced to tap into stored fat for energy. It takes a calorie deficit of 3500 to lose a pound of fat.
With a daily calorie deficit of 500, expect to lose 4 pounds in 28 days. Double the effort to a calorie deficit of 1000 to lose 4 pounds in 14 days. Do this by eating less and exercising more.
Aim for a moderate calorie reduction of at least 500. This way, you don’t deprive yourself. Start by cutting out unnecessary foods in your diet. These include junk foods such as; soft drinks, processed snacks, fried foods, baked treats, and pastries. These foods are high in calories with little nutritional benefit. Also, consider portion control to reduce calories.
Focus on eating nutrient-dense foods instead to make up for the reduced calories. Food high in protein, fiber, vegetables, and complex carbs are great for weight loss as they keep you full for longer. Start your day with oatmeal or protein-rich eggs, and you’ll notice a reduced appetite throughout the day.
With vegetables, you can add volume to your meals. Have some lean cuts of meat, fish, or poultry for lunch. Or better yet, have some high-fiber beans, lentils, or peas.
Exercise to boost weight loss
Exercise is a great way to increase your energy expenditure to burn more calories. Healthy adults should spend at least 150 – 300 minutes exercising weekly for weight loss.
Alternate between cardio and weight training for best results. Cardio exercises such as; running, cycling, rowing, and jumping rope help burn calories fast. Weight training exercises such as; squats, planks, deadlifts, and lunges help build muscle. The more muscle you have, the better your metabolism.
Focus on workouts you enjoy doing. This way, you’re more likely to be consistent.
Is it possible to lose 4 pounds in a day? Conclusion
Losing 4 pounds in a day is an unrealistic goal for most people. You’d have to resort to extreme ensures such as; eating at a severe calorie deficit and exercising intensely for long hours to burn enough calories. An extreme approach to weight loss that is not healthy or recommended.
