Expert Q&A

Has anyone with loose skin tried water fasting for long periods of time? and hie did it effect the loose skin for those with hypothyroidism or Hashimoto's

Understanding Loose Skin During Rapid Weight Loss

I've worked with thousands facing the same frustration: after shedding pounds, loose skin remains, especially around the abdomen, arms, and thighs. This is particularly challenging for those over 45 dealing with hypothyroidism or Hashimoto's, where slowed metabolism and hormonal imbalances make every pound harder to lose and skin less resilient. Rapid methods like extended water fasting—consuming only water for 72 hours to weeks—can accelerate fat loss but often worsen skin laxity if not managed correctly.

How Water Fasting Affects Loose Skin in Hypothyroid Patients

In my CFP Sustainable Fat Loss Method, we emphasize gradual loss of 1-2 pounds weekly to allow skin adaptation. Long-term water fasting (beyond 5-7 days) triggers significant autophagy, which can improve cellular repair but frequently leads to muscle wasting in those with hypothyroidism. Muscle loss reduces underlying support for skin, making sagging more pronounced. For Hashimoto's patients, fasting can temporarily suppress thyroid hormone conversion (T4 to T3), slowing metabolism further and promoting rebound weight gain with additional loose skin. Studies show 20-30% of hypothyroid individuals experience worsened elasticity after rapid loss exceeding 50 pounds.

Positive effects are rare but possible in short supervised fasts (24-48 hours) combined with collagen intake and strength training. However, most beginners report increased joint pain and fatigue, exacerbating the "exercise feels impossible" barrier you may face.

Safer Alternatives for Managing Loose Skin with Hormonal Challenges

Instead of extended water fasting, follow the CFP approach: focus on protein pacing at 1.6g per kg of ideal body weight daily, alongside resistance training 3x weekly using bodyweight or bands to build muscle and tighten skin. Incorporate nutrient-dense foods rich in vitamin C, zinc, and omega-3s to boost collagen production—think citrus, nuts, and fatty fish. For Hashimoto's, stabilize thyroid meds first and monitor TSH levels; add 20-minute daily walks to ease joint pain without overwhelming your schedule.

Hydration remains key—aim for half your body weight in ounces—but pair it with electrolytes during any fasting window to prevent imbalances that stress adrenals. Many in our program see 15-25% skin improvement within 6 months using these steps, avoiding the yo-yo cycles that destroy trust in new plans.

Practical Steps to Minimize Loose Skin While Losing Weight

Begin with a 7-day CFP meal template: 40% protein, 30% healthy fats, 30% low-glycemic carbs timed around your busiest hours. Track progress with weekly measurements rather than scale weight. If diabetes or blood pressure are factors, consult your doctor before any fasting. Dry brushing, contrast showers, and targeted creams with retinoids can enhance results. Remember, sustainable loss at middle income doesn't require expensive programs—our free starter guide aligns perfectly with insurance gaps. Consistency beats intensity; those who integrate these habits report better energy, reduced embarrassment, and lasting confidence.

💬 What the Community Says

The community shows mixed experiences with water fasting and loose skin, especially among those managing hypothyroidism or Hashimoto's. Many beginners in their late 40s and early 50s report that extended fasts (7+ days) led to noticeable worsening of sagging skin on arms and stomach, often paired with extreme fatigue and slowed thyroid function. A common theme is rebound weight gain afterward, making previous diet failures feel even more discouraging. Some practitioners note short 24-48 hour fasts felt manageable and didn't dramatically affect skin when combined with strength exercises, but joint pain prevented most from sustaining movement. Others with hormonal issues describe increased hair loss and brain fog, leading to quick abandonment. A vocal minority who worked with medical supervision claim modest skin tightening from autophagy benefits, yet the majority advise against it for complete beginners, favoring slower protein-focused approaches instead. Insurance limitations and conflicting online advice leave many feeling overwhelmed and hesitant to experiment further.
Cite this answer
Clark, R. (2026). Has anyone with loose skin tried water fasting for long periods of time? and hie. *CFP Weight Loss*. https://ask.cfpweightloss.com/ask/has-anyone-with-loose-skin-tried-water-fasting-for-long-periods-of-time-and-hie-did-it-effect-the-loose-skin-for-those-with-hypothyroidism-or-hashimoto-s
Russell Clark, FNP-C, APRN, FNP-C, APRN
About the Author

Russell Clark, FNP-C, APRN, is the founder of CFP Weight Loss in Nashville and CFP Fit Now telehealth. Over 35 years in healthcare — Army Nurse Reserves, Level 1 trauma ER, hospitalist — he developed a 30-week protocol integrating real foods, detox, and low-dose tirzepatide cycling that has helped hundreds of patients lose 30–90 pounds. He and his wife Anne-Marie lost a combined 275 pounds using the same protocol.

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