20 Jul Exploring the Negative Effects of Skipping Meals

In an effort to lose weight, some dieters mistakenly believe it is a good idea to skip meals. The reality is that skipping meals can actually lead to weight gain, which is obviously the last thing a dieter wants to see happen! In addition, skipping meals can lead to a number of other health problems, all of which can be avoided by following a well-balanced diet and by eating several small meals throughout the day.

For those who are trying to lose weight, eating several small meals throughout the day rather than 2 or 3 larger meals will go a long way toward helping to achieve weight loss goals. This is partially because eating throughout the day helps prevent the body from going into what is referred to as “starvation mode.” When the body goes without food for too long, it mistakenly believes it needs to start conserving energy and actually slows down metabolism, which means it doesn’t burn off fat and calories as quickly as it normally would.

In addition to preventing your body from going into starvation mode, eating several small meals throughout the day actually helps to keep your metabolism elevated when compared to eating even three meals per day. This is because your body is receiving a constant flow of energy, which allows it to freely burn off the calories you are consuming. Furthermore, the body burns calories as it digests the food you have eaten. This is not to say that you should eat junk food throughout the day, but eating some fruits, vegetables or nuts throughout the day can actually assist you with your weight loss.

Of course, eating right is not just about the way you look – it is also about keeping your body healthy. If you skip meals, you face the possibility of suffering from any one or more of these harmful side effects:

·    Not getting enough nutrients for the body
·    Not getting enough glucose for the brain
·    Difficulty determining when you are hungry and when you are full
·    Risk of experiencing bone loss
·    Risk of developing anemia
·    Decreased energy levels
·    Greater risk of mood swings
·    Risk of memory loss
·    Difficulty concentrating

So, stop skipping meals and concentrate instead on eating a healthy, balanced diet that gives your body the nutrients it needs.