When you begin dieting, your body goes through a period of adjustment while it adapts to running on fuel sources it may not be accustomed to. This adjustment period can sometimes send your body into a state of confusion, particularly if you drastically alter your eating habits in a short time period. This confusion can cause changes in blood sugar levels and absorption of essential nutrients, which can sometimes cause fatigue and dizziness.
Decreased Caloric Intake
Calories are your body's fuel source. Without them, you are not able to function at your best and eventually your body will begin to shut down, similar to the way a car stops working when it runs out of gas. According to Dr. J.D. Decuypere, a chiropractic doctor specializing in alternative health care and nutrition, if you do not put enough fuel -- or quality fuel -- into your body, your body will not have the energy you need to get through your day.
Hypoglycemia
It is quite common for people to reduce their intake of nutrients such as refined sugar and carbohydrates when they begin a diet. This can cause a drop in blood glucose levels, leading to a condition called hypoglycemia, which can cause fatigue and dizziness. According to the National Diabetes Information Clearinghouse, carbohydrates are your body's main source of dietary glucose, so restricting your intake of this important nutrient can leave you feeling lethargic, dizzy and generally uninterested in participating in your normal activities. See your doctor to determine whether your feelings of dizziness and fatigue are due to hypoglycemia.
Nutrient Deficiency
When you begin a diet, it is important that you avoid merely reducing the number of calories you consume and instead focus on eating more frequent, nutrient-rich meals. The reason for this is that simply restricting your calorie intake can leave your body wanting for essential nutrients, such as vitamins and minerals. Sixwise.com, a website that presents information from leading experts in fields such as health and wellness, points out that many vitamin deficiencies can result in feelings of chronic tiredness and dizziness. For example, iron deficiency is a common issue and can cause both tiredness and dizziness if it is not identified and treated properly. If you suspect or are unsure if you have a vitamin deficiency, see your doctor to find out.
Solutions
Fortunately, most causes of tiredness and dizziness accompanied by dieting can be easily remedied. The first step to take is to examine what kinds of foods you are eating and how often. If you are not eating frequently, you may simply need to add a snack or two during the day to keep your energy levels up, says Deckuyper. In addition, look at the quality of your food, as it is possible that you are eating sufficient calories but are eating fluffy, empty foods. Be sure to eat nutrient-rich foods; if you are still having symptoms of dizziness and fatigue, or it these symptoms are severe, see your doctor to determine any underlying causes.
