Diets that restrict calories can lead to hormonal imbalances from "summary" of Always Hungry? by DAVID. S. LUDWIG
Restricting calories to lose weight is a common strategy, but it might not be as effective as we once thought. When we drastically reduce our calorie intake, our bodies perceive this as a threat to survival. In response, our metabolism slows down, making weight loss more difficult over time. This metabolic slowdown is driven by hormonal changes in our bodies. Specifically, when we restrict calories, our bodies produce more of the hormone cortisol, which is associated with stress and can lead to increased fat storage. Additionally, levels of thyroid hormones, which regulate metabolism, can decrease on a low-calorie diet, further slowing down weight loss efforts. Furthermore, when we cut calories too drastically, our bodies may also produce more of the hunger hormone ghrelin and less of the satiety hormone leptin. This imbalance can make it difficult to stick to a low-calorie diet and can lead to increased feelings of hunger and cravings for high-calorie foods. In addition to hormonal imbalances, low-calorie diets can also impact our energy levels and overall well-being. Without an adequate intake of calories, we may feel fatigued, irritable, and unable to concentrate. This can make it challenging to maintain a healthy lifestyle and can have negative effects on our mental and emotional health. Instead of focusing solely on cutting calories, it may be more beneficial to prioritize the quality of the foods we eat. By choosing nutrient-dense foods that provide a balance of macronutrients, we can support our metabolism and hormonal balance, making it easier to achieve and maintain a healthy weight.
Similar Posts
Find ways to destress and relax
College can be a stressful time for many students. Between classes, exams, social activities, and extracurriculars, it's easy t...
Seek support if needed
If you find yourself struggling to make changes to your diet, remember that seeking support from others can be incredibly helpf...
Remember, progress is progress, no matter how small
It's important to keep in mind that progress is progress, no matter how small. Even the smallest steps in the right direction c...
Fasting days require consuming only a quarter of one's usual calorie intake
On fasting days, the key is to restrict calorie intake to a quarter of what one would normally consume. This reduction in calor...
The sugar industry has misled the public about the dangers of sugar
The sugar industry's deceptive practices have contributed to the public's misunderstanding of the harmful effects of sugar cons...
Sustainable weight loss requires a longterm approach
To achieve sustainable weight loss, it's crucial to take a long-term approach. Many people go on crash diets or extreme exercis...
The benefits of consuming pastureraised meat
Consuming meat from animals raised on pasture brings a multitude of benefits. Pasture-raised meat is not only more flavorful bu...
The diet promotes longevity through cellular regeneration
The diet outlined in this book is more than just a way to shed a few pounds or improve your overall health. It is a powerful to...
Supporting liver detox is essential for hormone health
The liver is a powerhouse organ that plays a crucial role in hormone health. It is responsible for breaking down hormones, toxi...
Insulin promotes fat storage and inhibits fat burning
Insulin, the hormone responsible for regulating blood sugar levels, plays a crucial role in determining whether we store fat or...