What Actually Happens When You Stop Dieting?
Many people start a diet plan with the intention of losing weight and improving their health. However, sticking to a diet plan can be challenging and sometimes unrealistic.
According to Boston Medical Center, about 45 million Americans start a diet each year, but staying on a diet can be challenging. You may get overwhelmed by cravings for prohibited foods, the new way of eating might be too alien, or perhaps the diet just doesn't work. Then you break your diet. Well, quitting diets is also pretty common. One survey found that two out of five dieters quit within the first seven days. One out of five last a month, and the same number make it to the three-month mark, while the remainder stay dedicated for at least six months. However, only one in 20 is likely to still be following their new healthy eating regime after one year.(Sourse- Daily Mail).
So what actually happens when you stop following your diet plan? The answer depends on several factors, such as how long you have been on the diet, what kind of diet you were following, and how much you deviate from it.
Here are some possible consequences:
- Weight gain:
If you were following a calorie-restricted diet, and you start eating more calories than your body requires, you may gain weight. This weight gain could be due to the excess calories consumed, the increased intake of high-calorie foods, or a combination of both.This weight gain can be due to an increase in fat, muscle or water retention. - Metabolism changes:
Depending on the type of diet you were following, stopping it may cause changes in your metabolism. For example, if you were following a low-carb diet, reintroducing carbohydrates can cause a spike in insulin and lead to weight gain. - Energy level fluctuations:
If you were following a diet that restricted certain types of foods or nutrients, and you start eating them again, you may experience fluctuations in your energy levels. For example, if you were following a low-carb diet and start eating more carbs, you may initially feel more energetic, but then experience a crash later on.This could be due to a change in your blood sugar levels or your body adjusting to a different eating pattern. - Mood changes:
Following a healthy diet can have positive effects on your mood, and if you stop following it, you may experience negative changes in your mood. For example, if you were eating a diet high in fruits and vegetables, which are rich in mood-boosting nutrients like vitamin C and folate, and you start eating more processed foods, which are low in these nutrients, you may experience mood swings or even depression. - Psychological effects:
If you were following a strict diet for a long time, stopping it can have psychological effects, such as guilt, shame, or feeling like you failed. This can lead to emotional eating, which can further exacerbate weight gain. - Digestion may be affected:
If you were following a diet that restricted certain types of foods, and you start eating them again, you may experience changes in your digestion. For example, if you were following a gluten-free diet and start eating gluten again, you may experience bloating, gas, and other digestive issues. - Nutrient deficiencies:
If your diet was lacking in certain nutrients, stopping it may cause you to become deficient in those nutrients. For example, if you were following a vegan diet and you start eating animal products, you may become deficient in vitamin B12. - Increased risk of Chronic Diseases:
You may increase your risk of chronic diseases. Your diet plays a key role in preventing or managing conditions like diabetes,heart disease,high blood pressure,high cholesterol,cancer,and osteoporosis. If you stop eating foods that protect your health like whole grains,lean meats,fish,nuts,seeds,legumes,and low-fat dairy products you may increase your risk of developing these diseases in the future.
To lower your risk try to limit your intake of saturated fats,trans fats,added sugars,and sodium nd drink plenty of water. - Positive effect:
If you were following a very restrictive or fad diet, stopping it may actually have positive effects on your overall health and well-being.
In summary - it's important to note that every person's body is different, and the effects of stopping a diet will vary depending on various factors. If you are considering stopping your diet, it's best to consult with a healthcare professional to determine the best course of action for your specific needs and to create a plan to transition to a balanced diet that meets your nutritional needs. Remember that moderation is key and that no food is off-limits as long as you enjoy it in reasonable amounts.
Related Article :