The Dangers of Diets that Restrict Calories

When it comes to losing weight, many people are drawn to the idea of counting calories and consuming as few as possible in a day. Severely restricting calories can indeed lead to weight loss, but it comes with an abundance of health-related drawbacks. A very low-calorie diet might as well be considered a regimen of starvation, and in the long-run, your body isn't going to react well to it. Particularly, a very low-calorie diet, according to the National Institute of Diabetes and Digestive and Kidney Diseases, is a regimen that replaces all meals with prepared formulas, usually as liquid shakes and does not let followers exceed 800 calories per day. This specific diet is used to promote rapid weight loss in those living with obesity, but it can cause many health risks.To fuel a healthy body, men are encouraged to consume an average of 2,500 calories per day, and women need around 2,200, though your own activity level, age, and body size could change this amount considerably. Following a very low-calorie diet slashes those daily amounts by two-thirds, which can do quite a number on your body. Plus, you're not taking advantage of the delicious, natural, and God-provided sustenance that's loaded with beneficial vitamins and nutrients. Is the very low-calorie diet worth it? We don't think so. Here are a few of the many side effects that come with following a diet that severely restricts calories: 1. Fatigue Because you're not fueling your body the way God intended you to, you'll likely experience more fatigue and weakness if you don't consume enough calories in the day. Dizziness, especially when you stand up after sitting for long periods of time, can occur, as well. 2. Constipation Many low-calorie diets restrict fiber consumption, so your bowels may not function properly. The rapid reduction of fiber often causes constipation, which can lead to harsh discomfort in the gut. 3. Diarrhea On the other hand, you may experience diarrhea. Because a proper balance of fluids and nutrients across the bowel wall induces normal digestion, it's no secret why you may have diarrhea while following a low-calorie diet. 4. Nausea Nausea is an early sign of hypoglycemia, also known as low blood sugar. When you're eating way less than you normally would, your body doesn't get enough glucose, which can often cause a dip in your blood sugar levels. 5. Gallstones Rapid weight loss and low levels of good cholesterol both increase your chance of developing gallstones, the hard, crystal-like stones that form in the gallbladder and keep the body from digesting foods properly. Live Your Life Naturally When you're constantly counting calories, it becomes a chore more than anything else. You get so obsessed over the thought of overstepping your calories for the day that it consumes your mind. This thinking isn't bad for only physical health; it's also dangerous for your mental well-being. Why count calories when you can lose weight without thinking about it? By following a primarily raw, plant-based eating regimen like the Hallelujah Diet, you can forget about counting calories. Instead, you'll fuel your body with an abundance of raw fruits, vegetables, nuts, seeds and organic grains from God's garden - sustenance that can help you lose weight naturally. What's best is most produce is low in calories to begin with, so there's no sense in worrying about restricting yourself from eating a nice hearty portion of fruits and vegetables. Following a plant-based diet and practicing other healthy habits such as exercising regularly, limiting stress and prioritizing sleep can help you lead a healthier lifestyle that prompts you to lose weight the natural way. What are you waiting for? Join us on the path to better health today!