For many people, weight loss brings numerous health improvements, especially for those who are overweight or obese. However, not all methods are safe, and some can have many negative impacts on health.
In reality, many people choose extreme diets, drastically cutting calories or adopting quick weight loss methods. However, they may not fully understand the impact these methods have on their bodies, according to the health website Healthline (USA).
Strict dieting can easily lead to nutrient deficiencies, causing fatigue and dizziness. PHOTO: AI
These changes can lead to nutritional deficiencies, metabolic disorders, and negative long-term health consequences. Instead of focusing solely on weight, people need to recognize the following warning signs:
Always feeling tired and dizzy
A very common symptom is persistent fatigue even without much physical activity. When calories are drastically reduced or essential nutrients like carbohydrates, fats, and proteins are lacking, the body will not have enough energy to maintain basic functions.
At this time, the body is forced to mobilize nutrients from muscles, fat, and other stored tissues. The consequence is fatigue, dizziness, reduced concentration, and weakness.
Hair loss or brittle nails
Changes such as excessive hair loss, dry skin, and brittle nails often reflect nutrient deficiencies. When dieting excessively, the body prioritizes nutrients for vital organs like the heart, brain, and lungs instead of maintaining hair, skin, and nails.
Protein, B vitamins, iron, and zinc are essential components for maintaining hair and nail growth. A deficiency in these substances disrupts cell regeneration, leading to weak and falling hair, dull skin, and loss of elasticity. If you've lost weight but notice a significant decline in your appearance, it's a sign of nutritional deficiencies.
Frequent digestive problems
The digestive system reacts very quickly to changes in diet. When a person cuts back on carbohydrates or vegetables, fiber intake decreases significantly, leading to constipation. Conversely, consuming too much protein or fat can overload the digestive system, causing bloating or indigestion.
In addition, an unbalanced diet can alter the gut microbiome. This leads to symptoms such as bloating, diarrhea, or persistent indigestion. This indicates that the diet is not suitable for the body's physiological needs, according to Healthline.