There are countless health benefits to shedding some pounds. You’ll have more energy, you’ll look and feel better; and you’ll reduce your risk of developing diabetes, heart problems, and other medical ailments.

Losing weight can come with some weird side effects, especially when you have a lot of pounds to take off. The benefits of weight loss certainly outweigh the side effects, but you should know what weird side effects you’re in for so that you don’t get discouraged.

You May Feel Depressed

This side effect is a catch 22 situation. When you exercise your body releases endorphins that interact with the receptors in your brain triggering a positive feeling. Combined with increased energy levels and reduced stress you should feel like you’re on top of the world but that isn’t always the case.

Researchers have found that losing 5% of your body fat makes you 78% more likely to be depressed. The reason is simple. Many people convince themselves that life will be better if they can lose weight. They begin dropping pounds, sometimes too quickly, and realize that their problems are still there.

Doctors suggest getting plenty of sleep, eating healthy foods when you’re hungry, and maintaining your workout routine to reduce your chances of feeling depressed. Combined they will give you the strength you need to combat the other challenges in your life.

You’re at Risk of Developing Gallstones

Your gallbladder doesn’t have to work as hard when you cut down on your fat intake. This allows the bile to become concentrated in the gallbladder, which leads to the formation of the gallstones.

Doctors recommend including fat in your daily diet to keep your gallbladder functioning properly. The goals should be to include healthy fats Polyunsaturated fats, Unsaturated fats, monounsaturated fats, Omega-3 fatty acids (found in fish, nuts, and seeds) and limit Saturate fats, Trans fats (found in beef, chick with skin, cream, cheese). It is also best to see your doctor if you start experiencing any symptoms of a gallbladder attack.

Loose Skin

When you lose weight, especially when you lose weight very quickly, the elastic components of your skin lose the layers of fat that keep them stretched out over your body. They need time for their elasticity to adapt to your new, smaller shape.

When you make the choice to lose weight, do it slowly aiming to drop 1 to 2 pounds per week and make sure that you include weight lifting so that you don’t lose lean muscle. It is also recommended that you stay hydrated as water is a crucial component of maintaining skin elasticity – just another reason to keep up with your 8 cups of water a day regiment.

Source: Men’s Health, Livestrong Foundation, Health