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9 Weird Signs You’re Not Eating Enough

by Leah Carton

Hearing your stomach occasionally grumble near lunchtime isn't something to necessarily worry about. However, there are deeper clues and weird signs you're not eating enough throughout the day that you really shouldn't ignore.

Some parts of your body, like your bowels and head, may be giving you subtle hints that you're body isn't getting the nutrients it needs to function properly. Even if you're on a diet, it's still important to have the right amount of calories and other nutrients in your diet.

If you're concerned with your caloric intake, you can catch and resolve the warnings signs early before not eating enough starts to take a deeper effect on your overall health. According to Authority Nutrition, you need to eat 2,000 calories per day to maintain your weight, and 1,500 calories to lose one pound of weight per week. So, whether you take a relaxed approach when it comes to your caloric intake or you're on a strict diet, it's still important to make sure that you're eating enough throughout the day.

It may be time to pay attention to your body and the clues it's trying to give you to maintain, and possibly improve, your overall health. There are plenty of weird signs telling you that you're not eating enough daily, and here are just a few of them.

1

You're Frequently Constipated

In an interview with Self, registered dietitian Brigitte Zeitlin said that dehydration and not eating enough fiber may cause you to be constipated. Try staying hydrated with water and eating foods rich in fiber like beans or broccoli.

2

You Get Frequent Headaches

According to Eat This, Not That!, you may suffer from headaches when you don't eat enough carbs. Such headaches occur when your blood sugar levels dip, so make sure to eat well throughout your day to prevent this.

3

You Have Trouble With Your Hair, Skin, and Nails

According to Mind Body Green, your body shows subtle signs that you're not getting enough protein. The site further noted that some of these signs include hair loss, flaky skin, and ridging nails. Try eating foods rich in protein such as almonds, chicken, or eggs.

4

You're Always Cold

According to Meg The RHN, calorie restriction can cause your body temperature to drop. To prevent this, your body needs calories to make your body warm. The site further noted that a diet too low in carbohydrates can also cause you to feel cold.

5

You're Constantly Tired

According to Livestrong, fatigue can be a sign that you're not eating enough. The site noted that glucose runs low after you haven't eaten for a period of time, therefore your cells can't function properly. Just like a car, you can't function well without fuel.

6

Your Mood Is Unpredictable

According to heath expert Chris Kresser, not eating enough can lead to problems with your self control. The site further noted that your brain needs your blood sugar to function efficiently, and the effects show when it dips from you not eating enough.

7

Your Breath Smells

According to Shape, your breath may smell when you don't eat enough carbs. The site noted that the process of your body burning fat is known as ketosis, and the chemicals called ketones smell as they burn.

8

You Have An Irregular Period

According to clinical nutritionist Dr. Josh Axe, irregular periods could be a sign that you're not eating enough. Dr. Axe recommended you eat high antioxidant foods full of nutrients, especially food with fats and proteins.

9

You Have A Lack Of Libido

According to The Body Dietetics, a weakened or lack of a sex drive can be due to hormonal changes from not eating enough. It may be time to stay on top of your eating habits, or lack of, to keep your hormones in line.