Calorie Deficit to Lose Weight? Think Again.

Aug 30

While going in to a calorie deficit may be an effective way to move that scale, it can do more harm than good.

Let me explain…

Basal Metabolic Rate refers to the number of calories needed to do all basic internal body functions.

Calories in vs. calories out, right? Many people don’t realize restricting calories too much may actually make your body work against your goals.

It’s not sustainable. Ever gone into a calorie deficit and felt good? Let me answer that for you. No. You were fatigued, had brain fog, and most likely nutrient deficient.

You can LOWER your metabolism. READ THAT AGAIN. The whole point of getting healthier is to make our body into a sufficient calorie burning machine, right? If your body isn’t getting the nutrients or calories it needs to sustain normal body function (this is why KNOWING your basal metabolic rate is so important), it will lower its’ metabolism and go into “reserve mode,” where it hangs onto calories because it doesn’t know when you’re going to feed it again (this is why I don’t agree with intermittent fasting, but that’s a whole other rant for another day ;) ).

You’ll have less output for your workout, which will make that workout extra hard, and not have the fuel to recover and rebuild. Muscle loss = lowered metabolism. Your body will essentially “eat itself” via lean muscle to complete the work, which basically negates that workout.

Calorie restricting can reduce estrogen or testosterone levels, or both, which may affect fertility and/or weaken your bones. It also can induce stress on your body, which can cause adrenal dysfunction.

Want help calculating your Basal Metabolic Rate? Click here for my Nutrition Plan!

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