Sometimes, we think that the easiest way to lose weight is by skipping meals. Why not? You will not starve if you occasionally skip breakfast, lunch, or dinner, so what is the harm? The answer is abundant. Having a reliable and consistent meal plan is essential, whether your goal is weight loss or simply maintaining a healthy lifestyle. Read on to learn what happens to your body when you do not eat enough.
Your blood sugar levels drop
The food you eat has a tremendous impact on your energy level. If you eat too much or not at all, your blood sugar levels can rise or fall like a rock. Not eating can cause your blood sugar levels to drop enough to make you feel tired and lethargic, and even dizzy. A lack of glucose in your body also means that your brain cannot function properly. As a result, you are more likely to feel drowsy, irritable, and have a pessimistic attitude toward life.
Your metabolism slows down
Sometimes skipping a meal can have the opposite effect. Your body does not function as well as it should when you miss meals, which causes your metabolism to slow down. So what was supposed to be a shortcut to losing weight can make it harder to lose weight because of a slower metabolism. Your body wants you to eat regularly, and it will reward you with a faster metabolism.
You are not getting the necessary nourishment
When you eat, you do not just fill up on food to satisfy your hunger. You give your body vital proteins, carbohydrates, fibre, vitamins, minerals, and everything you need to live a healthy life. Losing all of these nutrients can have negative effects on your immune and cardiovascular systems, as well as increase your risk of certain cancers.
You are at increased risk for diabetes
Skipping breakfast can raise your blood sugar. If you do this regularly, you will gradually increase your susceptibility to diabetes in the long run. Add in stir-fried breakfasts and dinners as well, and you can increase your odds significantly.
It can disrupt your entire eating schedule
You will eat better if you are not starving. When you skip meals, you may feel hungry at odd times of the day. To satisfy your hunger, you could develop bad eating habits and eat a lot of food quickly. Plus, it can spike your blood sugar, setting you up for another big unhealthy meal later in the day.
Hormonal Imbalance
When you do not eat enough, your body produces a stress hormone called cortisol, and this can harm your health. When the level of cortisol increases, you tend to gain more weight and increase your risk of illness.
Do not miss meals if you are concerned about overeating. Include healthful snacks all day long. Smaller, healthier meals will be simpler to consume as a result, which is far preferable to skipping meals.