Hello everyone! It is that time of the week again for our Weekly Topic! This week we will be covering SKIPPING MEALS AND IF IT IS BAD FOR YOU.  This is something that I have a constant battle with many of our dieters about. To many, they think if they eat less calories throughout the day, they will lose more weight. This is actually completely FALSE! 

What are some ways you guys stop yourselves from skipping meals? Do you still skip meals yourself? How can we do better with not skipping any meals? Let's discuss! 

1. You will most likely overeat at your next meal! Most studies show that when you skip a meal, especially breakfast, you tend to overeat at your next meal to overcompensate in calories or portions. 
2.  Your energy levels will go down. Since your body is not getting fed every 3-4 hours, your metabolism will start to slow down which can cause fatigue in most people!
3.  You are more likely to gain weight which, is the opposite effect people expect! Skipping meals can make your body go in to starvation mode which means it might overcompensate by holding on to each and every calorie you eat! Since this slows your metabolism, it increases your body's fat storage and risk of certain diseases!
4.  Reduces motivation and focus. Your brain cannot function properly if you do not feed it appropiately. Glucose, which your body obtains by breaking down nutrients in the food you eat, is the primary source of energy for your brain and central nervous system. When you fast for several hours or more, the supply of glucose to your brain dwindles. This can impair your concentration, focus, memory and mood!
5.  You will not be in the best of moods. Since your body is starved, your blood sugar levels decrease. Low blood sugar can cause people to feel very irritable and fatigued. The body will then produce cortisol which is what can make poeple feel "hangry". It also triggers a stress response in our bodies that have the potential cause emotional outbursts, mental instability, depression and anxiety in some people. 
6.  It can even affect your appearance! When you do not get an adequate amount of nutrients, your appearance can suffer. Your hair can become greasy and thinner as can you nails. Your skin can even because dry, blotchy or blemished!

Columbia University reports that skipping meals regularly can have health consequences that range from mild to severe. Fatigue, dizziness or fainting are among the most mild; in the long term, you may also notice anemia, bone loss, thyroid function impairment, decreased immunity and worsening dental health. If you're considering consistently skipping a meal for any reason, see your doctor before proceeding.

What happens to the body when you skip meals?

What effects does skipping meals have on the body?

Exactly what happens to your body when you skip a meal, according to Dietitians

• Eat smaller, frequent meals throughout the day rather than skipping meals.

• Always have a snack around like yogurt or a granola bar to hold you over until your next meal.

• Eat snacks high in protein and fiber.  They will keep you full longer.

• Plan your meals in advance or prepare them the night before.

• Make a schedule for the week to avoid over booking yourself or falling behind.

• Set an alarm to ring at lunchtime if you are going to be running around all day.

• Make a lunch date. You cannot skip a meal if you have already made plans with friends or family.