Tropical Weight Loss
Photo by Andres Ayrton Pexels Logo Photo: Andres Ayrton

Why am I not losing weight even though I'm not eating?

Conservation Mode. Hardly eating doesn't help with long-term weight loss because severe calorie restriction sends your body into conservation, or "survival," mode. Your body holds onto fat when it doesn't have enough calories to support normal functioning, according to the Waldo County General Hospital website.

livestrong.com - Why Am I Not Losing Weight If I Hardly Eat? - Livestrong
Do apple cider gummies really work?
Do apple cider gummies really work?

However, there is no scientific evidence to support this claim. Some people believe that apple cider vinegar gummies can help you lose weight by...

Read More »
Last updated Sep 25, 2019
How long do I need to sleep in a recliner after tummy tuck?
How long do I need to sleep in a recliner after tummy tuck?

Dr. Sajjadian recommends you sleep in a reclined position for three to four weeks after surgery, depending on the level of correction performed....

Read More »
Last updated Sep 28, 2019

Since eating fewer calories is one way to lose weight, you may believe that you will see results faster by severely cutting your food intake. At first, you may even be rewarded with the fast results you're after. In the long-term, however, hardly eating is an ineffective diet strategy and it is a surefire way to increase your risk of serious health issues.

Conservation Mode

Hardly eating doesn't help with long-term weight loss because severe calorie restriction sends your body into conservation, or "survival," mode. Your body holds onto fat when it doesn't have enough calories to support normal functioning, according to the Waldo County General Hospital website. Not eating enough calories every day also causes you to lose muscle tissue. This loss of muscle weight may cause you to think your diet is "working," but the loss of muscle tissue slows down your metabolism, soon stunting your ability to lose weight.

Video of the Day

Other Risks

Fasting diets lead to other serious health issues that you should be aware of. You may develop mild symptoms such as fatigue, brittle nails and heightened sensitivity to cold temperatures, but not taking in enough calories can also lead to serious issues such as depression, decreased thyroid production, reduced immunity and heart problems. Prolonged fasting may even lead to sudden death, warns the University of Illinois Health Care.

Calorie Needs

Most people can safely lose about 1 to 2 lbs. per week by reducing their daily calorie intake by 500 to 1,000 calories or by burning off the excess calories with exercise. Ideally, you would combine the two to avoid compromising your diet and prevent burning out with exercise. Just because the average person can generally cut up to 2 lbs. per week doesn't mean you should cut 2 lbs. a week. Calculate your minimum daily calorie needs first and do not dip below them or you will risk your health and send your body into conservation mode. Your individual needs will vary based on your size, age and activity level, but most adults should never dip below 1,200 calories a day.

Considerations

Your doctor may suggest putting you on a very low-calorie diet if you're overweight, in immediate danger of serious health issues and unable to lose much weight with traditional diet and exercise. A medically supervised very low-calorie diet is full of high-quality protein and carbs and involves supplementation with electrolytes, minerals and vitamins. You are likely to see fast weight loss results with this carefully monitored method, but long-term results aren't guaranteed. You are more likely to maintain the weight loss if you combine the diet with exercise, behavioral therapy and an active follow-up care plan.

Advertisement

How long does it take for your body to start burning stored fat without eating?
How long does it take for your body to start burning stored fat without eating?

Fat burning typically begins after approximately 12 hours of fasting and escalates between 16 and 24 hours of fasting. Jul 29, 2019

Read More »
Last updated Aug 9, 2018
Can fat come back after a tummy tuck?
Can fat come back after a tummy tuck?

During body contouring procedures like a tummy tuck, fat cells are eliminated from the body and cannot return. Because of this, patients may gain...

Read More »
Last updated Nov 14, 2018

Can I restart Saxenda?

If more than 3 days have passed since your last liraglutide dose, ask your doctor if you should restart the medication with the low dose to reduce your chance of side effects. Follow your doctor's instructions carefully. Before using, check this product visually for particles or discoloration.

webmd.com - Saxenda Pen Injector - Uses, Side Effects, and More - WebMD

Read the Medication Guide and the Instructions for Use Leaflet provided by your pharmacist before you start using liraglutide and each time you get a refill. Learn all preparation and usage instructions. If you have questions, ask your doctor or pharmacist. Inject this medication under the skin in the thigh, abdomen, or upper arm as directed by your doctor, usually once daily. Your doctor will start you on a low dose first to decrease your risk of stomach/abdominal side effects, and gradually increase your dose. If more than 3 days have passed since your last liraglutide dose, ask your doctor if you should restart the medication with the low dose to reduce your chance of side effects. Follow your doctor's instructions carefully. Before using, check this product visually for particles or discoloration. If either is present, do not use the liquid. Before injecting each dose, clean the injection site with rubbing alcohol. Change the injection site each time to lessen injury under the skin. Use this medication regularly to get the most benefit from it. To help you remember, use it at the same time each day. Carefully follow the meal plan and exercise program your doctor has recommended. Do not share your pen device with another person, even if the needle is changed. You may give other people a serious infection, or get a serious infection from them. Learn how to store and discard medical supplies safely.

Will my stomach be saggy after pregnancy?
Will my stomach be saggy after pregnancy?

Loose skin is a normal experience after pregnancy. During pregnancy, the skin stretches to accommodate a growing bump. As a result, many women find...

Read More »
Last updated Nov 26, 2022
Why is it harder to lose weight as you age?
Why is it harder to lose weight as you age?

Why is it harder to lose weight as you get older? As you get older you lose muscle. This has a bigger impact than simply losing muscle definition...

Read More »
Last updated Jan 27, 2020
Is there any way to get Wegovy without insurance?
Is there any way to get Wegovy without insurance?

Yes, the drug's manufacturer offers a Wegovy coupon called the Wegovy Savings Card. People without insurance may qualify for this card. To learn...

Read More »
Last updated Sep 4, 2020
What diet pill is the same as phentermine?
What diet pill is the same as phentermine?

The brand offers its science-backed take on an over-the-counter phentermine alternative: PhenQ. This weight loss supplement supports your metabolic...

Read More »
Last updated Nov 10, 2020