How Does Weight Loss Affect Human Development?

People around the world are seeking weight loss. Some weight loss methods are better than others, and as with anything, moderation, use of common sense and education on diet and nutrition are essential for long-term health. Extreme weight loss can hurt growth and development, especially in children and teens, so parents and caretakers should be aware of such issues when monitoring nutrition and diet for such individuals.

Weight-Loss Medications

• Taking weight loss medications is a common method that helps many individuals achieve the weight loss they're seeking, but too much of a good thing can be detrimental to human development. Some ingredients, such as chitosan, that block fat absorption might prevent absorption of vital vitamins and minerals, interrupting or slowing the supply needed for growth of tissues such as the kidney, liver and brain.

Brain Development

• Reducing cholesterol intake to drastic levels might impede brain cell development. A Swedish medical university (Karolinska Institutet) published findings that cholesterol derivatives were essential for brain cell formation. The study led by Ernest Arenas showed that formation of dopamine produces neurons vital for motor skills and brain functions. Lack of nutrients also causes mood swings, depression and can lead to physical or mental health disorders, and to eating disorders such as anorexia or bulimia, caused by cravings or frustrations and dissatisfaction that stray from expected results of crash diets.

Crash Diets

• Restricting food can have detrimental effects on multiple organs and organ systems. The body burns fewer calories and metabolism slows, producing short- and long-term effects. Nutritional deficiencies can lead to anemia and to deficiencies in potassium and sodium. These minerals are necessary in maintaining chemical balances that regulate all nerve and muscle function, from your fingers to your heart. Organs rely on energy from carbohydrates, and when it's lacking, organs begin to burn their own tissues for energy, which can lead to stroke or liver, kidney or heart failure. Long-term nutritional deficiencies can lead to bone loss and osteoporosis, and reduction in size or function of organs. The results can be lowered immunity, chronic infection, and faulty organ development and function.