Whether you’re trying tolose weight, maintain your current weight, or gain more, calories matter.
Experts advise not dipping below1,200 caloriesa day for women.
Even then, that’s the bare minimum that may not get you all the nutrients you need.
Yuki Kondo / Getty
There aren’t many upsides to eating too few calories, not even long-lasting weight loss.
Here, Pojednic and Zeitlin share seven ways your body might be telling you it needs more food.
You’re dragging all day long.
When your calories are too low, your energy is too low," says Zeitlin.
That lack of spirit can show everywhere from the weight room to your morning meeting.
Related:8 Things You Should Know About Making Smoothies If Youre Trying To Lose Weight
2.
Your weight won’t budge.
You’re constipated all the time.
There are two main reasons under-eating can lead toconstipation.
If you’re ignoring hunger pangs, you might be accidentally be ignoring thirst cues as well.
Related:8 Fiber-Rich Avocado Desserts you could Prep In 30 Minutes Or Less
4.
You’re constantly hungry.
Yes, it’s a no-brainer symptom, but it’s worth noting that you shouldnotfeel like you’reconstantly hungry.
Hunger means your body is sending you a signal.
Together, they tell your brain when to eat and when you’re full.
Related:7 High-Protein Foods You Should Always Keep In Your Pantry
5.
You snap at everyone who so much as talks to you.
There’s even a catchy nickname for this symptom: hanger, or hunger-induced anger.
Some of that irritability comes down to missing out on the enjoyable psychological component of eating, says Pojednic.
“People have psychological attachments with food for a variety of reasons.
It can bring a tremendous amount of pleasure,” she explains.
“Once you take that away, it can create negative feelings.”
But hormones also cause some of that testiness.
“Typically, this process begins when your blood sugar is low,” says Pojednic.
You stick to your low-calorie diet most of the time, but sometimes you completely lose control.
Indulging is a part of life, and there’s nothing wrong with it.
It’s pretty much essential for staying sane.
Denying yourself can set you up for a binge-bang out behavior."
You often feel really thirsty.
One way you might realize your electrolyte levels are off is via constant thirst.
“Sodium and potassium keep your hydration levels appropriate,” says Pojednic.
Even if you are getting enough calories, staying hydrated is a non-negotiable.
Check out these12 easy ways to drink more water every day.
The bottom line: over-restricting calories really doesn’t help your mental or physical health.
“It’s a good idea to make working out part of your daily routine.
Related:What Really Happens When You Detox
Photo Credit: Yuki Kondo / Getty; Social image: Getty
