I lost 7 pounds in 3 days—is that bad?

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  1. Losing 7 pounds in just 3 days is a very rapid weight loss, and while it may not always be dangerous, it can be a red flag, depending on the context.

    ⚠️ Here’s why it might be concerning:
    1. Water weight, not fat
    Most rapid weight loss in a few days is due to water loss, especially if you changed your diet drastically (e.g., low-carb, fasting, detox, or dehydration).

    It’s unlikely that you lost 7 pounds of fat in just 3 days — that would require a massive calorie deficit (~24,500 calories).

    2. Potential risks
    Dehydration (especially if you're not drinking enough or you're sweating a lot)

    Electrolyte imbalances, which can affect your heart and muscles

    Muscle loss, if you’re not eating enough protein

    Fatigue, dizziness, or mood changes

    3. Underlying health issues
    If you didn’t intend to lose that much weight or didn’t change your diet, it could signal an issue like:

    Infection

    Thyroid problems

    Digestive disorders

    Diabetes

    Stress or anxiety

    ✅ What to do:
    Monitor how you feel (energy, hydration, appetite, etc.)

    Hydrate and eat balanced meals

    If you feel unwell, or if the weight continues to drop quickly, see a doctor.

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  2. Losing 7 pounds in 3 days is quite rapid and can be concerning depending on the context. Here’s the scoop:

    Possible reasons for rapid weight loss:
    Water weight loss: This is common if you’ve been on a very low-carb diet, dehydrated, or sweating a lot.

    Illness or infection: Sometimes sudden weight loss can signal something like the flu, stomach issues, or other medical conditions.

    Extreme calorie deficit: Eating very little or fasting can cause fast weight loss but might not be healthy or sustainable.

    Other factors: Stress, medications, or medical conditions like thyroid problems.

    Is it bad?
    Generally, losing 1-2 pounds per week is considered safe and sustainable.

    Losing 7 pounds in 3 days is too fast for fat loss alone; it’s mostly water, muscle, or other tissue.

    If unintentional or accompanied by symptoms like dizziness, weakness, or fatigue, it’s important to see a healthcare professional.

    If this was intentional (like starting a new diet), be cautious and make sure you’re staying hydrated and nourishing your body properly. If it wasn’t intentional, or you feel unwell, definitely check with a doctor to rule out any issues.

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