Why Eating Too Little Can Make You Fat (Try this Instead)

Sounds counterintuitive right? But it is often the case. Make sure you aren’t limiting your potential and slowing down your progress.

What are the Advantages of a Low Body Fat Percentage?

There are several advantages to having a low body fat percentage, including:

Improved Health: Low body fat percentage is associated with a reduced risk of many health conditions such as heart disease, stroke, diabetes, and some types of cancer.

Better Athletic Performance: A low body fat percentage can help to improve athletic performance by increasing speed, agility, and endurance.

Increased Muscle Definition: With lower levels of body fat, muscles become more visible, resulting in a more defined physique.

Improved Self-Esteem: Maintaining a low body fat percentage can lead to increased confidence and self-esteem, which can positively impact overall mental health and well-being.

Improved Sleep Quality: Studies have shown that individuals with lower levels of body fat tend to experience better quality sleep, which can lead to improved overall health and well-being.

It is important to note, however, that achieving a low body fat percentage should always be done in a healthy and sustainable way, through a balanced diet and regular exercise. Rapid weight loss methods, such as crash diets or extreme calorie restriction, can have negative effects on overall health and well-being.

Mind Pump TV is a popular fitness and wellness YouTube channel that focuses on providing evidence-based information on fitness, health, and nutrition. The channel was founded by fitness experts and personal trainers Sal Di Stefano, Adam Schafer, and Justin Andrews in 2014.

Video – Why Eating Too Little Can Make You Fat

What are Macronutrients?

Macronutrients are the nutrients that are required by the body in large quantities to provide energy and support normal bodily functions. The three main macronutrients are carbohydrates, proteins, and fats.

Carbohydrates: Carbohydrates are the body’s primary source of energy. They are broken down into glucose, which is used to fuel the body’s cells. Carbohydrates can be found in many foods, including fruits, vegetables, grains, and dairy products.

Proteins: Proteins are essential for the growth and repair of tissues in the body. They are made up of amino acids and are found in many foods, including meats, fish, eggs, dairy products, and plant-based sources like legumes and nuts.

Fats: Fats are also a source of energy and are essential for the absorption of certain vitamins and minerals. They can be found in many foods, including meats, dairy products, nuts, seeds, and oils.

In addition to these three main macronutrients, the body also requires water and fiber in relatively large amounts. Water is essential for many bodily functions, including the transport of nutrients and waste products, while fibre helps to support digestive health and promote feelings of fullness.

Achieving a balanced intake of macronutrients is important for overall health and well-being. Depending on individual needs and goals, the proportion of macronutrients in one’s diet may vary.

What are Micronutrients?

Micronutrients are nutrients that are required by the body in smaller quantities, but are still essential for maintaining good health and preventing nutrient deficiencies. Micronutrients include vitamins and minerals.

Vitamins: Vitamins are organic compounds that are required for normal growth and development, immune function, and many other bodily functions. There are two types of vitamins: fat-soluble (such as vitamins A, D, E, and K) and water-soluble (such as vitamins B and C).

Minerals: Minerals are inorganic compounds that are essential for many bodily functions, including building strong bones, maintaining fluid balance, and producing energy. Examples of minerals include calcium, iron, zinc, and magnesium.

Micronutrients are found in a variety of foods, including fruits, vegetables, whole grains, meats, and dairy products. However, some individuals may require supplements to ensure they are meeting their daily micronutrient needs. A varied and balanced diet is key to obtaining all the necessary micronutrients.

Micronutrient deficiencies can lead to a variety of health problems, including anemia, weakened immune system, impaired growth and development, and even death in severe cases. Therefore, it is important to consume a varied diet rich in micronutrients to maintain optimal health.

What are Healthy Fats?

Healthy fats, also known as unsaturated fats, are a type of dietary fat that can provide a range of health benefits when consumed in moderation. Unlike saturated fats and trans fats, which can be harmful to health when consumed in excess, healthy fats can actually help to lower cholesterol levels, reduce inflammation, and support brain and heart health.

The two main types of healthy fats are:

Monounsaturated fats: These are found in a variety of foods, including avocados, nuts, seeds, olive oil, and canola oil. They can help to improve cholesterol levels and reduce the risk of heart disease.

Polyunsaturated fats: These are found in fatty fish, such as salmon, mackerel, and sardines, as well as in nuts, seeds, and vegetable oils. Polyunsaturated fats include omega-3 and omega-6 fatty acids, which are essential for brain function and can help to reduce inflammation in the body.

Other sources of healthy fats include:

Coconut oil: While it is high in saturated fat, coconut oil is also rich in medium-chain triglycerides (MCTs), which can provide quick energy and may help to improve brain function.

• Flaxseeds: These are a good source of alpha-linolenic acid (ALA), a type of omega-3 fatty acid that has been shown to have anti-inflammatory effects.
• Chia seeds: Like flaxseeds, chia seeds are a good source of ALA and can help to reduce inflammation and improve heart health.

It’s important to note that while healthy fats are beneficial, they are still high in calories, so they should be consumed in moderation as part of a balanced diet.

The American Heart Association recommends that healthy fats should make up 25-35% of daily calorie intake.

Learn More

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