Among the most diverse diets and ways of eating, OMAD (One Meal a Day Diet) has been "in trend" for some time. Proponents of this type of diet admit that it is a big restriction, but claim that a large number of kilos are lost with it.
Many experts disagree: "If you eat once a day because, either because of lack of time or to lose weight, the first thing that will happen is that you will slow down your metabolism. The body will go into energy-saving mode, and since the time when will be without food for a long time, it will start to create fat reserves for itself. In addition, when you eat once a day, the amount of food you take in at once will be much larger than if you divided the portions into several that you will spread throughout the day. In this way, you will get the body used to overeating, over time you will increase the portions and therefore gain weight," explains nutritionist Jim White.
Whether it seems to you that one meal a day is a good idea for losing weight, that you don't get to eat more meals because you are in a hurry, or you are simply used to it - see what this can mean for your body:
You may gain weight
In times of food shortages, your body turns on its "starvation mode" and stores the food you consume - so you'll have it for later when you need it most. It basically slows down your metabolism. On top of everything, the production of cortisol (stress hormone) increases, which causes fat storage in the body.
Sugar levels can become unstable
Long periods without eating usually lead to unstable blood sugar levels. Hypoglycemia (extremely low blood sugar) is often caused by fasting, especially if you have type 2 diabetes.
You may be deficient in nutrients
One meal a day may not provide you with enough vitamins. As a result, you are at greater risk of developing the effects of a vitamin deficiency. For example, hair loss is often linked to nutrient deficiencies. You may develop white spots on your nails (leukonychia), which indicates that you lack zinc and calcium, writes Bright Side.
Headaches
Headaches also often occur. This is due to unstable blood sugar levels or nutrient deficiencies.
Unhealthy food
If you only eat once a day, your meal is more likely to be unhealthy and higher in calories than it would otherwise be.
Winter hardiness
When your body is starving, there are changes in blood circulation. This is often manifested by the fact that you catch a cold more often or that it is much harder to tolerate the cold.
When everything is considered, it is important that you afford enough quality and healthy meals during the day, with which you will take good care of your body and provide everything you need for normal functioning.
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