After a long plateau, it may seem too good to be true when five pounds is suddenly gone – but the Whoosh Effect is a common experience among keto dieters. Researchers suspect that water retention plays a big role in the Whoosh Effect. When you start keto, you probably increase your water intake. This – along with other dietary and exercise changes – can contribute to the Whoosh.
The takeaway: if you’re currently on a plateau, continue to stick with keto-friendly dishes, exercise regularly, and drink plenty of water.
Reljic, D., Hässler, E., Jost, J., & Friedmann-Bette, B. (n.d.). Rapid weight loss and the body fluid balance and hemoglobin mass of elite amateur boxers. J Athl Train. 2013 Jan-Feb;48(1):109-17. doi: 10.4085/1062-6050-48.1.05.