It is not uncommon for people to undereat, especially when they are busy or have a poor appetite. Undereating can lead to weight loss, fatigue, and other health problems. The most common signs of under eating are weight loss, feeling tired all the time, and having difficulty concentrating. If you suspect that you or someone you know is not eating enough, it is important to see a doctor or dietitian to rule out any underlying medical causes.
Low Energy Levels. Calories are units of energy your body uses to function
Your body needs a certain number of calories each day to carry out its basic functions. If you consume fewer calories than your body needs, you may have low energy levels.
There are a number of possible explanations for why someone might have low energy levels despite eating enough calories. For example, they may be:
-not getting enough sleep -undergoing physical stress (e.g., from exercise) -experiencing emotional stress -sick or recovering from an illness -taking certain medications that can cause fatigue as a side effect.
Constant Hunger
If you’re constantly hungry, it’s a sign that your body isn’t getting enough of the nutrients it needs. Feeling ravenous all the time can lead to overeating and weight gain. It can also be a symptom of an underlying health condition.
If you’re always hungry, it’s important to pinpoint the cause. Are you eating enough calories? Not getting enough protein or fiber? Or are you simply snacking too much throughout the day? Once you identify the problem, you can make changes to your diet and lifestyle to help control your hunger.
Here are some common causes of constant hunger:
1. You’re not eating enough calories
If you’re not consuming enough calories each day, your body will start to signal that it’s starving. This can lead to feelings of intense hunger, even if you’ve just eaten a meal. If calorie restriction is causing your hunger issues, try increasing your intake by 250-500 calories per day until your appetite improves.2
Irritability
If you’re irritable, it may be a sign that you’re not eating enough. When your body isn’t getting the fuel it needs, it can cause you to feel cranky and short-tempered. If you find yourself snapping at loved ones or feeling easily frustrated, take a step back and assess your diet. Are you getting enough calories? Are you eating regularly throughout the day? If not, try to make some changes to your eating habits. It may take a little while for your body to adjust, but once it does, you should start feeling better.
Feeling Cold All the Time
If you’re always feeling cold, even when you’re in a warm room or dressed in warm clothes, it’s worth considering whether you might be under eating. Other signs that you might not be eating enough include losing weight without trying, feeling tired all the time, and getting sick more often than usual. If you think you might be under eating, talk to your doctor or a registered dietitian to get help increasing your calorie intake.