Why do we need to drink enough basic metabolism for fluid interruption

Drinking enough basal metabolic rate during fluid interruption is to maintain basic physiological functions of the body, avoid a decrease in metabolic rate and muscle loss. The key factors include basal metabolic consumption, water balance, energy supply, metabolic adaptability, and nutritional reserve protection.

1. Basic metabolic expenditure:

The human body consumes energy to maintain basic functions such as heartbeat, respiration, and body temperature in a resting state, accounting for about 60% -70% of the total daily energy consumption. If the calorie intake is consistently lower than the basal metabolic rate during the fluid interruption period, the body will activate energy-saving mechanisms, leading to a continuous decrease in basal metabolic rate, which in turn affects the subsequent weight loss effect. Calculating individual basal metabolism requires consideration of factors such as age, gender, and weight. Adult females typically require 1200-1500 kcal/day, while males require 1500-1800 kcal/day.

2. Water balance:

Water intake during liquid fasting directly affects cellular metabolism and toxin excretion. Every 1 gram of glycogen consumed is accompanied by 3 grams of water loss. When daily fluid intake is insufficient, dehydration headaches and electrolyte imbalances may occur. It is recommended to supplement sodium and potassium ions with diluted salt water, sugar free coconut water, etc. The daily water intake should reach kg x 30ml of body weight and be evenly distributed throughout the day.

3. Energy supply:

Short term fluid deprivation can force the body to switch to fat burning mode, but complete fasting for more than 48 hours will break down muscle protein for energy supply. Drinking plant-based protein drinks or bone broth containing essential amino acids can provide approximately 800-1000 calories, maintaining an energy deficit without triggering muscle breakdown. Research shows that maintaining a protein intake of 0.8-1.2 grams per kilogram of body weight can reduce muscle loss by 60%.

4. Metabolic adaptability:

Continuous low calorie intake activates the "hunger response" in the hypothalamus, causing a 20% -30% decrease in thyroid hormone T3 levels, leading to a decrease in body temperature and increased fatigue. By periodically adjusting liquid calorie intake, such as a 5:2 light fasting, metabolic activity can be maintained more effectively than a sustained extremely low calorie diet. It is recommended that the fluid break should not exceed 72 hours, during which the daily calorie intake should not be less than 80% of the basal metabolism.

5. Nutritional Reserve Protection:

Fat soluble vitamins and essential fatty acids require sufficient fat to participate in absorption, and a completely fat free diet may lead to vitamin A/D/E/K deficiency. Adding flaxseed oil, MCT oil, or avocado milkshakes to a liquid diet, consuming 5-10 grams of high-quality fat each time, can not only maintain gallbladder contraction and prevent gallstones, but also support hormone synthesis. At the same time, it is necessary to supplement the B complex vitamins to prevent ketoacidosis. During the implementation of liquid suspension, it is recommended to choose a combination of high nutrient density liquids, such as almond milk+whey protein powder, spinach coconut water smoothie, mushroom kelp soup, etc., and consume 200-300 milliliters every 3 hours. Combining 30 minutes of low-intensity exercise, walking, and yoga daily can improve fat oxidation efficiency. When symptoms of hypoglycemia such as palpitations and persistent dizziness occur, they should be stopped immediately, and during the transition period, a liquid semi liquid stepwise refeeding should be adopted. Chronic disease patients should undergo the procedure under the supervision of a doctor, and it is prohibited to attempt it during pregnancy, lactation, or for individuals with a BMI<18.5.