Excess calorie cutting can make you feel depressed because it disrupts the body's normal balance of nutrients and hormones essential for mood regulation. When you don't eat enough, your brain receives less glucose, which is its primary energy source. This can impair neurotransmitter activity, especially serotonin and dopamine, which play key roles in maintaining emotional stability. Deficiencies in vital nutrients like omega-3s, B vitamins, and iron can further worsen low mood. A restrictive diet can also increase stress, irritability, and obsessive thoughts around food, making you more vulnerable to depression. Keep reading as we discuss how calorie cutting can make you depressed and how to avoid it.
Here's why calorie cutting in making you depressed and how to avoid it
1. Nutrient deficiencies
Excessive calorie restriction often leads to a lack of essential nutrients like B-complex vitamins, iron, and omega-3 fatty acids that support brain health and neurotransmitter function. This can result in fatigue, brain fog, and low mood. Avoid it by ensuring your calorie deficit still includes nutrient-dense foods like leafy greens, nuts, seeds, whole grains, and oily fish or flaxseeds.
