Is it normal to lose 20 pounds by racing for an hour every day

Running for an hour every day to lose 20 pounds is considered an abnormally rapid weight loss method, and it is generally not recommended to use this extreme approach. Short term weight loss may be caused by excessive exercise, extreme dieting, or potential health issues.

Race walking consumes about 300-400 calories per hour, and theoretically, it is reasonable to lose about 2-4 pounds in a month. A weight loss of 20 pounds requires a cumulative consumption of 77000 calories, equivalent to several months of continuous high-intensity exercise. Rapid weight loss often accompanies muscle loss, metabolic damage, and some people may experience problems such as hypoglycemia, menstrual disorders, and skin laxity. After extreme weight loss, it is easy to rebound and may also induce complications such as gallstones and electrolyte imbalances.

In a few cases, hyperthyroidism, diabetes and other diseases will lead to rapid weight loss. If accompanied by symptoms such as palpitations, excessive sweating, and polyuria, it is necessary to seek medical attention promptly to investigate the pathological causes. Abnormal weight loss may also occur when taking certain medications or experiencing digestive and absorption disorders.

It is recommended to lose no more than 1% of body weight per week, which is 1-2 pounds, for healthy weight loss. Dietary adjustments and moderate exercise should be combined to ensure a daily protein intake of no less than 1 gram per kilogram of body weight, supplemented with multivitamins and sufficient hydration. If you experience discomfort such as dizziness and fatigue, immediately stop extreme weight loss behavior and seek guidance from a nutritionist or endocrinologist if necessary.