Research has placed a lot of emphasis on how the food we consume can affect our health and the shape of our bodies, and as a result, we are much more conscious of what we eat nowadays. The modern world has also redefined beauty standards for men and women. While women with slimmer physiques and thigh gaps are seen as more desirable, men are expected to look muscular. This has resulted in an increased emphasis on calorie counting as people try to fit themselves into the mold that society has prescribed.
But is counting calories and restricting them worth the effort? We tend to forget that our bodies need energy to function correctly. Energy is essential for life-saving actions like breathing, pumping blood, digestion, and all the other day-to-day activities. By consuming low calories, you might put your health at immense risk.
Let’s explore this article to learn more about this new-age destroyer of health. Here are some ways restricting calories can impact your health.
Slower Metabolism
Did you know that metabolism is your body’s engine? It helps convert food into energy to keep you alive and active. So, when your body is not nourished adequately, it goes into survival mode. It starts to break down muscles to release the glucose stored inside, which can be used for energy. Additionally, it will burn fewer calories, making weight loss hard over time. Consequently, you might feel sluggish and dizzy too. A slow metabolism can make it easy to regain the lost weight once you start eating normally again. So, ensure you eat well, depending on your daily physical activities.
Weakens Immune System
Restricting calories may increase your risk of infections and illness. The energy your immune system needs to fight off infections is produced by the calories you consume. When you don’t get enough sustenance, your body lacks essential nutrients like vitamins A, C, and zinc. As a result, you end up sick frequently, wounds take longer to heal, and your body struggles to fight off viruses and bacteria.
Poor Bone Health
Reduced calorie consumption can weaken bones because inadequate nutrition diminishes estrogen and testosterone levels. These are essential hormones, and low levels can result in bone breakdown and weaker bones. Additionally, calorie constraints can increase stress hormone levels when combined with physical exercise, which may also lead to bone loss.
Low Nutrient Absorption
Regularly eating fewer calories than the body requires can cause exhaustion and difficulty completing daily tasks due to less energy. Further, this leads to nutrient shortages in the body. For instance, a low-calorie diet might not provide sufficient iron, folate, or vitamin B12, which can lead to anemia and severe fatigue. However, according to some research, carb diets may increase fatigue in specific individuals, while others find the opposite effect. Additionally, calorie-restricted diets may lack other essential nutrients like proteins and calcium, resulting in hair thinning, weak bones, and skin issues.
Reduces Fertility
Severely reducing calorie intake can negatively impact fertility in women as ovulation relies on specific hormone levels. According to studies, it has been proven that women who consume 22 to 42 percent fewer calories than needed to maintain their weight have suppressed reproductive systems.
Signs of reduced fertility can include irregular or skipped menstrual cycles. Severe calorie restriction may also negatively impact male fertility by causing hormonal imbalances, poor sperm quality, and disrupted gene expression in the testes. Accordingly, having a balanced diet is essential for maintaining reproductive health in both males and females.
Risk of Depression
When you eat too little, your nutrient intake drops and your brain struggles to function properly, leading to confusion in how it responds. Crash diets are usually linked to anxiety and depression, so it is essential to be cautious before starting one. A proper balanced diet with a good protein intake supports overall well-being.
Conclusion
Ensuring you eat enough calories is essential for maintaining good health and congruent hormone levels. It also allows you to maintain stable levels of energy throughout the day. While a calorie-restricted diet can be followed responsibly, it must be done carefully and preferably under the instruction of a nutritionist.
If you have been restricting calories for unhealthy reasons, stop immediately. Gradually increase your calorie intake and follow a proper diet, as this can prevent or reverse health issues caused by undereating. If you are unsure about your needs, consult a healthcare professional to ensure you get personalized guidance. By prioritizing a well-balanced diet, you can ensure your body functions well!
