One of the things that you need to prepare for when you start off on your weight loss journey is a lack of energy. You might start feeling more tired than usual, especially if you are reducing your intake of carbohydrates and performing workouts that are intense on a regular basis. Sure, these strategies could help you shed some extra fat from your body, but they could also leave you feeling pretty drained. In the end, you might find yourself wondering why your energy levels during weight loss fluctuate so much.
Ultimately, it is important to be aware of, and care about, your energy levels during weight loss. Keep reading to learn more about why energy loss happens sometimes with weight loss, and what you can do about it.
First Off, It’s Normal
When it comes to understanding your energy levels during weight loss, it is important that you are aware of the fact that feeling tired is considered completely normal, as well as expected, especially if your aim is to slim down by reducing fat rather than building muscle.
Here are the reasons why your energy levels during weight loss could decrease:
1. You cut back on your intake of certain foods, and specific macros. When you do, your body will begin to be affected by these dietary changes.
2. When you reduce the amount of carbs and sugar that you ingest daily, you are also cutting out calories. It’s important to remember that calories are used for energy. Cutting back on calories means cutting back on energy, too.
3. If you were eating more carbs before, perhaps because you wanted to build more muscle, your body will need a bit of time to adjust to the changes if you suddenly reduce your intake of carbs, and that could leave you feeling tired.
Another thing to consider: if you suddenly put your body on a strict diet that dramatically cuts calories, you have to expect that you will end up feeling depleted because those calories won’t be there anymore for your body to tap into for energy throughout the day. For this reason, experts recommend cutting back gradually when it comes to both carbs and calories. Replacing foods that are high in carbs with foods that are energizing, such as quinoa and edamame is also wise. Diet pills can also be incredibly effective when it comes to fighting fatigue.
Steps You Can Take to Maintain Your Energy While Losing Weight
Even though some changes in your energy level should be expected while you’re working on shedding pounds, there are steps that you can take to maintain the highest amount of energy possible.
Be sure to get enough shut-eye every night. Aim for 6-8 hours of restful sleep. Also, fuel your body before a workout by eating nutritious foods that are packed with energizing vitamins. Stay hydrated throughout the day to keep energy up and to help your body be leaner, and make sure you give yourself time to recover between workouts.
If you continue to struggle with your energy level while you’re losing weight, talk to your doctor. He or she might be able to diagnose a nutritional deficiency or give you tips on how to exercise and eat for more energy.