Eating too few calories can cause a number of ailments. Individuals who eat too few calories are often malnourished, lacking various essential vitamins and minerals. In some cases, the symptoms are very mild, but individuals severely lacking in calories may suffer serious and permanent damage to the body.
Symptoms
Individuals who are malnourished may develop problems of both the body and the mind. Symptoms will vary depending on the person. Individuals who are very physically active require more calories to carry out necessary functions throughout the day and thus are likely to experience more symptoms than those who are relatively sedentary. In general, consuming too few calories can cause fatigue, dizziness and weight loss. Other more severe symptoms include poor immune function, dry, scaly skin, swollen and bleeding gums, decaying teeth, slowed reaction times and trouble paying attention, poor growth, muscle weakness, bloated stomach, osteoporosis, problems with organ function and difficulty learning.
Anorexia
Anorexia nervosa is an eating disorder where individuals are very afraid of gaining weight and lose weight by extreme dieting and/or vomiting after they eat. Anorexics consistently consume too few calories, which can lead to a number of symptoms. Signs of anorexia include losing lots of weight, denying feeling hungry, exercising too much, often feeling fat and withdrawing from social activities. Individuals with anorexia may suffer from headaches, dizziness, moodiness and concentration difficulties.
Prevention
It is necessary to consume a well-balanced diet that is rich in fruits, vegetables, lean proteins and whole grains. It is essential to consume an adequate number of calories according to your height, weight, metabolism, sex and level of physical activity. Individuals who exercise regularly should consume more calories to help maintain adequate levels of energy to carry out normal daily functions.
Treatment
If you eat too few calories and have any changes in the body's ability to function or experience fainting, lack of menstruation, a failure to grow or rapid hair loss, contact your health care provider. Your doctor will help develop a nutrition program to help relieve symptoms and restore your health.
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