Starvation diets place your body at risk for undernutrition. Although it is usually a consequence of a deficiency of calories, undernutrition can also result from a deficiency in vitamins and minerals. This malnutrition from a starvation diet triggers physical changes in the body that can ultimately lead to disease and illness. Starvation diets do not allow you enough calories per day to supply the energy required for your brain, cells and body organ systems.
Energy
A lack of energy and weakness are the primary symptoms that your body is not receiving enough calories. Symptoms of undernutrition include fatigue, weakness and an inability to do normal activities. This lack of energy may signal an underlying loss of white blood cells and a weakened immune system that can lead to an increased risk of infection.
Skin and Nails
As a result of poor nutrition, you may also experience brittle nails, splitting or breaking hair, and dry skin. Your skin is the largest organ of the body and provides a good snapshot of how healthy your other organs might be. With the decreased number of calories, vitamins and minerals in a starvation diet, you may experience a growth of soft, downy hair on the body. This downy hair, called lanugo, is commonly found on individuals who are suffering from a long-term reduction in caloric intake.
Gallstones
Another common and serious side effect of a very low calorie diet is gallstone formation. Gallstones often develop in individuals who are obese, especially women. Gallstones are even more common in women during rapid weight loss because rapid weight loss may increase levels of cholesterol in the gallbladder and decrease the ability of the organ to expel bile. You may be a candidate for medication that helps prevent the formation of gallstones during rapid weight loss. Consult with your primary care physician about these medications, especially if you are a woman over the age of 40.
Cardiovascular
The cardiovascular system will show significant negative effects from a starvation diet and reduced vitamin and mineral intake. You will likely experience low blood pressure and abnormal heart rhythms. With the reduction in blood pressure, your extremities will have a reduced amount of blood flow and you will probably experience cold hands and feet. In some instances, you may be cold on a chronic basis.
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