Our expert Dr Neha Sanwalkha, nutritionist and dietician, says Skipping meals does not provide any health benefits. Instead, it has many side effects. Here s what are they
#1. Changes in your blood sugar levels
Sugar -- obtained from the breakdown of carbohydrates -- acts as our body's fuel, which is required for its normal functioning. So if you skip a meal, your blood sugar levels drop which in turn affects the functioning of your organs.
#2. Affects your mood and concentration
Do you know that glucose (obtained through food) is the main source of energy for your brain? Hence, if you skip a meal, your brain will receive less glucose (energy). As a result, it experiences a shortage and you will feel tired, sluggish, moody and irritable. This also interferes with your ability to concentrate, thereby leading to a decrease in your performance at work or school.
#3. Alters your metabolism
According to Dr Neha, Skipping meals on a regular basis shifts your system into starvation mode. This is an effort by the body to store energy. However, not eating your breakfast or dinner, decreases your overall metabolism and slows down the weight loss process.
#4. Increases your risk of diabetes
Not many people know that skipping lunch or eating a heavy dinner in the evening elevates your blood glucose levels. In addition to this, it also delays the insulin response; a condition which if persists might cause diabetes in the long run.
#5. Lowers your nutritional intake
If you leave your house without eating anything on a regular basis, it means that you are eating less than you are supposed to. This in turn causes an overall decrease in your nutrient intake making you prone to various nutritional deficiencies, especially Vitamin B complex deficiency.