Weight Loss During Fasting: What is Considered Normal?

Jakarta (ANTARA) - Dr. Andi Kurniawan Sp.KO, a sports medicine specialist and a graduate of the University of Indonesia, stated that weight loss during fasting is normal, with an average decrease of about 0.5 to 1 kilogram per week.

“As a simple benchmark, a normal weight loss is 0.5–1 kg per week, or no more than 4 kg in total during the month of Ramadan,” Andi told ANTARA on Thursday.

Andi explained that weight loss during fasting is a normal physiological response because the body undergoes significant metabolic changes. Almost half of those who fast, or about 44 percent, experience weight loss during fasting.

Andi explained that drastic weight loss of more than two kilograms per week during fasting is a dangerous sign due to severe dehydration or muscle loss (sarcopenia).

This can be characterized by physical symptoms such as severe and persistent dizziness, inelastic skin (a sign of dehydration), or extreme fatigue that does not improve after breaking the fast.

“People with type 1 or type 2 diabetes who use insulin must closely monitor their weight and blood sugar levels. Adolescents who are still in the growth phase also need special attention because nutritional deficiencies can interfere with bone growth and cognitive development,” he explained.

In people with a higher Body Mass Index (Overweight/Obesity), Andi said that this population tends to experience greater weight loss compared to those with normal weight.

However, in individuals who are active in sports and control their diet, a weight loss of up to 2 kg in a month is still in the healthy category because it comes from a reduction in fat mass while preserving muscle mass.

“This does not happen to everyone; your lifestyle during iftar (breaking the fast) plays a key role,” said Andi.