Are you a chronic dieter?
Hey gf, can you remember the last time you weren't in a deficit? Are you constantly feeling tired, moody, or fatigued? Have you spent more time dieting than not dieting? If this sounds familiar, then you might be a chronic dieter.
Chronic Dieting Syndrome (CDS) involves consistent restriction of energy intake in order to maintain or lose weight. Someone with CDS may be overly focused on dieting and will spend long periods of time on a diet. However, CDS is a non-pathological condition, which makes it easier to treat and overcome than a pathological and medically diagnosed eating disorder.
What are the symptoms and long-term effects?
- Hyper focus and concern on body shape, weight and appearance
- Restrictive food behaviours and food rules
- Constant yo-yo dieting
- Metabolic down-regulation
- Hormone dysfunction
- Reductions in lean muscle mass and bone density
- Low energy availability and reduced training performance
- Irregular menstrual cycles or amenorrhea
How can I overcome CDS?
- Seek help from a medical professional if needed
- Undergo a reverse diet and work on increasing your calories slowly over time
- Enter a maintenance phase and spend a solid amount of time eating at your maintenance calories
- Question your food rules and understand that there are no 'good' or 'bad' foods
- Understand that the best thing for your energy, training performance, and long-term physical and mental health is increasing your calories
If you or someone you know is struggling with CDS, please don’t hesitate to reach out to a trusted friend or family member, medical professional, or psychologist. It’s okay to need help gf!
Soph xx