5 things that happen to the body when a meal is skipped | – Times of India

Skipping meals is not the best way to fit into your old jeans; there are many other ways to lose weight and everyone has a busy schedule, but that doesn’t mean you should starve yourself. If you are a working professional, you should consume a more nutritious diet daily. Skipping meals can lead to a range of health issues as not consuming enough calories can lead to nutritional deficiencies.Instead of not eating, adding more protein and fibre to your meals can aid in weight loss and help in better functioning of the body. Nuts and seeds, spinach, broccoli, eggs, fruits, and vegetables are some of the foods you can consume. Eating these fibre and protein-rich food will help you feel full for the rest of the day.
Here are a few reasons why you should never skip your meals:

1. Increases the risk of anxiety and depression

Skipping meals may not only lead to overeating later in the day, but it can also make you more prone to stress and anxiety. According to a study published in BMC Psychiatry, skipping breakfast is related to decline in cognitive performance and increased frailty. Regularly skipping meals can lead to mood swings, with hunger causing anger and irritation. Extended periods of hunger can create unnecessary tension and panic, affecting your decision-making skills and leading to stress, anxiety, and depression.

2. Impact on blood sugar

Not eating your first meal of the day can be harmful for people with diabetes as it can affect your blood sugar regulation. According to Nutrition Journal, women who skipped breakfast had more chances of having elevated fasting blood glucose levels than those who ate three meals. Besides, when you don’t eat for a long time, your sugar levels drop quickly. This can cause weakness and dizziness. Your body needs proper food to provide energy, keep you healthy, and maintain your sugar levels.

3. Bad for digestion

Not eating enough meals in a day can lead to constipation. Apart from not eating fibre, NHS inform says a change in your routine or lifestyle, can also be a reason behind irregular bowel movements. A proper diet is important for good digestion.

4. Trouble in concentrating

When you are not eating properly, it can result in a lack of energy for the day. You may feel low on energy, have trouble working, feel dizzy, and be moody. Not eating a proper diet can also make you more susceptible to illnesses.

5. Slows down your metabolism

Skipping meals can lower your metabolism, causing you to burn less energy. This can also lead to weight gain. According to a study published in Nutrition and Metabolism, breakfast skipping can have a detrimental effect on the working Korean male population, especially in young adults.