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6 solid reasons why dieting for weight loss is a terrible idea

If you think that the best way to lose weight is to go on a diet, then do give this a read.
diets for weight loss
There are better ways to lose weight. Image courtesy: Shutterstock
Published by Aayushi Gupta
Updated On: 16 Feb 2021, 05:59 pm IST
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When we hear the term “diet”, most of us imagine cutting down on our food intake in order to lose weight. But is dieting really as good as it seems? Well, while many believe in the idea of dieting for weight loss—it can force your body into starvation mode which can take a toll on your health.

When we restrict food groups we essentially end up restricting our nutrient consumption, as a result of which we don’t get the vitamins and minerals we need.

So you if you have been dieting for weight loss, then do give this a read because we are sharing six reasons why you shouldn’t go on a diet: 

1. Dieting can cause weakness

A study published in the journal Annals of Internal Medicine found that a low-carb diet can leave you fatigued. Whenever you go on a low-carb or low-fat diet, you are depriving your body of two essential nutrients that it needs for energy and normal functionally. 

2. Dieting can push you towards an eating disorder

You might believe that adopting a weight loss diet is a great idea, except according to the American National Eating Disorders Association, 35% of ‘normal dieters’ tend to become pathological dieters. The organisation also suggests that over 20% of people who diet end up developing eating disorders. Dieting may not be the only reason why someone is bound to get an eating disorder, but it can be a trigger. 

3. Lack of proper nutrition is a possible side effect

Dieting for weight loss might be harmful for your body because you are not just creating a deficit of calories but also nutrients like fat. You need to keep in mind that fat is a necessary fuel for the body, and it also supports cell growth.

dieting for weight loss
Nutrients are compounds in foods essential to life and health. Image courtesy: Shutterstock
4. Dieting could lead to loss of muscle

Severe dieting can cause muscle loss, which results in loss of strength and endurance. A study published in the American Journal of Clinical Nutrition states that a reduced calorie intake can lead to a decline in muscle mass as well as weight gain–which beats the purpose of dieting to begin with, doesn’t it? 

5. Dieting can result in hair loss

If you are suffering from hair loss, your dietary restrictions could be to blame. Lack of proper nutrition can weaken the hair follicles and also lead to hair fall, as per a study published by Dermatology Practical and Conceptual

6. You end up gaining weight in the long-term

Dieting cannot help you lose weight in the long run because when you start eating normal portions again, you end up gaining weight faster than before. Aggressive dieting reduces your metabolic levels, which also reduces the speed of fat burn in your body. 

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About The Author
Aayushi Gupta
Aayushi Gupta

Aayushi Gupta is a health writer with a special interest in trends related to diet, fitness, beauty and intimate health. With around 2 years of experience in the wellness industry, she is connected to leading experts and doctors to provide our readers with factually correct information.

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