What Happens if You Eat 700 Calories a Day

What Happens if You Eat 700 Calories a Day

Maintaining a healthy and balanced diet is crucial for our overall well-being. While it’s important to consume enough calories to fuel our bodies properly, many people wonder what would happen if they were to drastically reduce their calorie intake. Eating only 700 calories a day is considered extremely low and can have significant effects on your health.

When you consume only 700 calories a day, your body goes into a state of starvation. Initially, you may experience rapid weight loss, as your body burns stored fat for energy. However, this weight loss is not sustainable and can lead to serious health complications. Here are a few things that can happen if you eat 700 calories a day:

1. Nutrient Deficiencies: With such a low calorie intake, it becomes challenging to consume enough nutrients, vitamins, and minerals, leading to deficiencies and weakened immune function.

2. Muscle Loss: Your body will start breaking down muscle tissue to obtain energy, resulting in muscle loss and a decrease in strength.

3. Slowed Metabolism: When you drastically reduce your calorie intake, your body adjusts by slowing down its metabolism to conserve energy. This makes it harder to lose weight in the long run.

4. Fatigue: Insufficient calories can leave you feeling tired, weak, and lacking energy throughout the day.

5. Mental Health Issues: Severely restricting your calorie intake can increase the risk of developing mental health issues such as depression, anxiety, and an unhealthy relationship with food.

6. Nutritional Imbalances: A diet consisting of only 700 calories is likely to lack the necessary balance of macronutrients (carbohydrates, proteins, and fats) required for optimal health.

7. Hormonal Imbalance: Drastic calorie restriction can disrupt hormone production, leading to irregular menstrual cycles, fertility issues, and other hormonal imbalances.

FAQs:

1. Can I lose weight by eating 700 calories a day?
Yes, initially, you may experience rapid weight loss. However, this type of extreme calorie restriction is not sustainable and can lead to serious health problems.

2. How many calories should I be eating in a day?
The recommended daily calorie intake varies depending on factors such as age, sex, weight, and activity level. Consulting with a healthcare professional or registered dietitian is advised for personalized guidance.

3. Can I exercise while consuming only 700 calories a day?
Engaging in intense physical activity on such a low-calorie intake can be dangerous and put your health at risk. It is essential to fuel your body adequately for exercise.

4. Are there any health benefits to eating so few calories?
No, consuming only 700 calories a day does not provide sufficient nutrients for optimal health and can result in various health complications.

5. What are some alternatives to extreme calorie restriction for weight loss?
Instead of severely restricting calories, focus on a balanced diet consisting of whole foods, portion control, and regular exercise. Consulting with a healthcare professional or registered dietitian is recommended.

6. Can I maintain muscle mass on a 700-calorie diet?
It is challenging to maintain muscle mass on such a low-calorie intake, as your body will break down muscle tissue for energy.

7. Can a 700-calorie diet lead to long-term health issues?
Yes, consuming only 700 calories a day can lead to nutrient deficiencies, muscle loss, hormonal imbalances, and other long-term health complications. It is important to prioritize a balanced and sustainable approach to nutrition.