Am I Eating Enough?
Answer 10 questions to find out if you're undereating and learn how to fix it without gaining fat.
How many calories are you currently eating per day?
Your calorie intake relative to your body size is the most important factor. Very low intakes cause metabolic adaptation.
The Truth About Undereating
Why "Eat Less, Move More" Often Backfires
Your body is a survival machine, not a calculator. When you drastically cut calories, it doesn't just burn fat - it adapts. Your metabolism slows, hunger hormones increase, and your body fights to conserve energy. This is why so many people eat 1,200 calories and still can't lose weight.
Signs You're Not Eating Enough
Constant Fatigue
Feeling exhausted even after sleeping - your body is conserving energy
Food Obsession
Can't stop thinking about food - your brain's survival signal
Poor Sleep
Waking up hungry or can't fall asleep - disrupted hormones
Declining Performance
Workouts suffering, strength dropping - not enough fuel
Hair Loss / Feeling Cold
Physical signs your body is in conservation mode
Mood Issues
Irritability, anxiety, brain fog - your brain needs fuel
The Solution: Reverse Dieting
If you've been undereating, the answer isn't to eat even less - it's to strategically increase calories:
- 1.Increase slowly - Add 100-150 calories per week to minimize fat gain
- 2.Prioritize protein - Keeps you full and preserves muscle
- 3.Expect water weight - Initial gain is glycogen and water, not fat
- 4.Be patient - It takes 4-12 weeks to restore metabolic rate