This Aggressive Weight Loss Method Actually Works, Nutrition Expert Says originally appeared on Men’s Fitness.
If you have an event coming up—like a wedding or seaside vacation—and want to shed a few pounds fast, it might not be out of reach.
In a recently shared Huberman Labclip, Andrew Huberman and nutrition expert Layne Norton, Ph.D., explored the topic of rapid weight loss and whether or not it can be done safely.
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There’s a widely accepted belief that fast weight loss isn’t sustainable and that the weight will come right back. But Norton says that’s not always true, especially for people with higher body fat.
“The research data actually tends to suggest that people who are obese who lose a lot more weight early are more likely to keep it off,” Norton said.
While it may seem counterintuitive, early results can also create a stronger buy-in effect, which helps people stick to their plan.
Related: We Settle the Debate: Is the StairMaster or Treadmill Better for Weight Loss?
Huberman laid out a common scenario: someone wants to lose fat fast—maybe three pounds per week—by cutting calories in half and doubling their workouts. Norton said that approach can work, but it depends on your body composition.
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“The more adipose tissue you have, the more aggressively you can diet without negative consequences,” Norton explained.
In simpler terms, the more body fat you have, the more aggressive you can safely be with dieting without risking lean muscle loss. But if you’re already lean, extreme restriction can backfire and lead to muscle loss or metabolic issues.
Both Huberman and Norton agree that rapid weight loss isn’t sustainable long-term, but it can be a helpful short-term tool if followed by a transition into a more manageable lifestyle change.
Related: Forget Weight Gain—This Is How Your Body Really Reacts to One Cheat Day, Study Says
This Aggressive Weight Loss Method Actually Works, Nutrition Expert Says first appeared on Men’s Fitness on Jul 28, 2025
This story was originally reported by Men’s Fitness on Jul 28, 2025, where it first appeared.