Scared to Eat More Than 1,000 Calories

PugBug20
PugBug20 Posts: 55
in Health and Weight Loss
Hi, all. I am two months into my health and fitness journey, and so far, I have lost 15 pounds. I am at a healthy weight now, but I am still 15 pounds from my ultimate goal weight. My problem is that I am scared to eat more than 1,000 calories a day. On most days, I eat 800 - 1,000 calories (I never eat less than 800 calories, so it isn't too extreme), but when I eat any more than that, even one calorie over, I feel like a failure. In my mind, I know that I could eat up to 1,500 calories a day and still lose weight (it just might take longer), but I am so scared that eating a single calorie more than 1,000 a day will make me plateau, or worse, gain weight. It is so hard to stick to a 1,000-calorie diet that I skip meals, restrict all high-calorie foods regardless of whether or not they are healthy (e.g., I refuse to eat bananas, nuts, etc., even in moderation), etc. to avoid going over my daily limit. I know that this isn't healthy for my body or my mind, so what can I do to change?
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Replies

  • kmsnyg
    kmsnyg Posts: 100 Member
    I say this in the nicest way possible, but you need to see someone for your disordered pattern of eating.
  • shabaity
    shabaity Posts: 792 Member
    :noway: I dunno why you would willing go that low on calories or what scares you about it but this is something you should speak to a therapist and your doctor about to make sure being that low doesn't mess up your blood work.
  • 4legsRbetterthan2
    4legsRbetterthan2 Posts: 19,590 MFP Moderator
    talk to an ED specialist who can help you develop a new realtionship with food
  • kshadows
    kshadows Posts: 1,315 Member
    I say this in the nicest way possible, but you need to see someone for your disordered pattern of eating.

    This.
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  • RHachicho
    RHachicho Posts: 1,115 Member
    Professional's can help but from what I understand the root of your condition is that you measure yourself by your weight. Think about what that means for a second and try and take some steps to cultivate some self worth that doesn't depend on a scale reading. I say this in the nicest most non sarcastic possible way.
  • psuLemon
    psuLemon Posts: 38,431 MFP Moderator
    I am going to suggest you speak with a ED specialist as well. If you need some additional information or a starting point see the below.

    http://myfitnesspal.desk.com/customer/portal/articles/1575987-eating-disorder-resources

    You are young.. there really is no need to be afraid of food. It's energy. If you don't eat, your metabolic functions will drop and you will burn less calories which will also lower your TDEE and make it easier to gain back. The type of pattern you are speaking of is very unhealthy and will make a long term goal nearly impossible. In hopes of giving you some perspective, the average woman I know is losing from 1700-2100 calories, which means they will maintain at 2200-2600 calories or so. And then there are threads like the below.

    http://www.myfitnesspal.com/topics/show/506349-women-who-eat-more-than-1800-calories-a-day
  • gnalani
    gnalani Posts: 126
    The best thing you can do for yourself is to talk to a trusted person outside of the Internet :) it sounds like you might need the help of a therapist trained to address these issues. A healthy body is worthless if it comes at the price of a healthy mind. Best of luck.
  • erialcelyob
    erialcelyob Posts: 341 Member
    I was in this situation for a while and it ended up turning me to binging and making me feel even worse about myself and not at my best. I couldn't get access to someone for help due to prices and waiting lists. Maybe try and understand why you are doing this and focus on what your body needs to be at its best and focus on being healthier even if it means slowing down the weightloss, I would maybe try and aim for say 1050 for the next wee while and gradually put it up every so often before you don't feel guilty or anything for seeing such a high number
  • Serah87
    Serah87 Posts: 5,481 Member
    Seek help for your ED!!!!
  • stefaniella
    stefaniella Posts: 9
    You need to eat a minimum of 1,200/day calories to be healthy. Sounds like you may have an eating disorder.... seek professional help immediately. Bless.
  • queenierz
    queenierz Posts: 210 Member
    I already thought eating at 1200 is ridiculously unhealthy and low...to be honest. but hey, it's okay. We are here to support you.
    What I suggest is that, you SLOWLY up your calories... because currently your body is adapted to 800-1000 calories intake, and if you ate jump fast at 1500 or so it might be bad. So, just slowly up. ACCEPT IT. Listen, if you keep eating at 1000 caloreis per day, you won't be able to stick to it forever. You will be starving, and out of energy. I know it's hard; I've been there. But you'll getused to it, trust me.
  • Kalikel
    Kalikel Posts: 9,603 Member
    The 1000 calories aren't the big problem - it's the guilt. I'd consider seeing a therapist who specializes in eating disorders. They can help you figure out if you have one. Even if you don't, they can help you deal with your emotions about food.

    Try skipping calorie counting for a day and see how that goes. However it goes, on the following day, write a few sentences down about the experience.
  • Craft715
    Craft715 Posts: 2 Member
    First of all, congrats to you for recognizing this unhealthy eating pattern. I'm sure you are aware that failure to consume enough calories can actually sabotage your weight loss. I always remind myself of this when I'm tempted to eat less calories than my body needs. I'm certainly not an expert, but it really helps me to view food as fuel for my body. Food is NOT the enemy! Eating the calories recommended for my body in the proper proportion of protein, fat and carbs is one of the best things I can do for myself. Try not to swear off healthy, natural foods such as nuts and bananas. Instead, stick to recommended serving sizes (or even half-servings) of the foods that you're afraid of and focus on the benefits to your body. At just 105 calories per serving, I love that bananas provide lots of fiber, vitamins A, D, and C, potassium, and lots of energy with no added sugar. And, a handful of natural, unsalted almonds (about 14 almonds) packs plenty of protein, fiber, and health-promoting fats. It's interesting to note that studies have shown that people that consume nuts regularly are thinner than those that do not. Another study found that subjects who ate nuts twice a week were 30% less likely to gain weight. Learning more about the benefits of healthy foods has definitely changed the way I plan my meals. I like to eat AT LEAST the minimum recommended calories every day, and my goal is to achieve that by eating as many healthy, unprocessed foods as possible. If I go over a little because of eating something nutritious, it really isn't a big deal. Some days, I'm hungrier than others! Because you know that you aren't eating enough calories and posted here for advice, I'm hopeful that you can turn this around. If you just can't seem make yourself take in the fuel that your body needs, please do reach out to a professional. Best of luck to you! :)
  • caracrawford1
    caracrawford1 Posts: 657 Member
    Hi, all. I am two months into my health and fitness journey, and so far, I have lost 15 pounds. I am at a healthy weight now, but I am still 15 pounds from my ultimate goal weight. My problem is that I am scared to eat more than 1,000 calories a day. On most days, I eat 800 - 1,000 calories (I never eat less than 800 calories, so it isn't too extreme), but when I eat any more than that, even one calorie over, I feel like a failure. In my mind, I know that I could eat up to 1,500 calories a day and still lose weight (it just might take longer), but I am so scared that eating a single calorie more than 1,000 a day will make me plateau, or worse, gain weight. It is so hard to stick to a 1,000-calorie diet that I skip meals, restrict all high-calorie foods regardless of whether or not they are healthy (e.g., I refuse to eat bananas, nuts, etc., even in moderation), etc. to avoid going over my daily limit. I know that this isn't healthy for my body or my mind, so what can I do to change?
    Please see someone who is a professional and deals with those who have ED or may have ED
  • bigsistruck
    bigsistruck Posts: 125 Member
    Wow, so many are quick to shout "ED!" here. Personally, I have lost weight twice by eating 900-1000 calories a day, I felt just fine, and had normal physicals. Once I got to maintaining I ate a normal amount of calories each day (about 1,500-1,800). I have never been in bad health and I didn't lose weight when I ate more than that a day even with exercise.
  • BombshellPhoenix
    BombshellPhoenix Posts: 1,693 Member
    Wow, so many are quick to shout "ED!" here. Personally, I have lost weight twice by eating 900-1000 calories a day, I felt just fine, and had normal physicals. Once I got to maintaining I ate a normal amount of calories each day (about 1,500-1,800). I have never been in bad health and I didn't lose weight when I ate more than that a day even with exercise.

    And your losing weight again, I see. How's this pattern working for you?

    I would also question the logging accuracy of claimed intake.

    OP, the part that's disordered is your fear of eating more and the fact that 1000 calories and below is NOT enough for anyone to function on who isn't somehow compromised and need medical supervision. I agree with the others that finding a doctor to explain to you how and why you need to properly fuel yourself is in order
  • gnalani
    gnalani Posts: 126
    Wow, so many are quick to shout "ED!" here. Personally, I have lost weight twice by eating 900-1000 calories a day, I felt just fine, and had normal physicals. Once I got to maintaining I ate a normal amount of calories each day (about 1,500-1,800). I have never been in bad health and I didn't lose weight when I ate more than that a day even with exercise.

    The OP wasn't asking if 1000 calories was unhealthy. She was asking for help regarding the emotions surrounding her 1000 calorie plan. That is why people are recommending she seek professional help.
  • bigsistruck
    bigsistruck Posts: 125 Member
    Wow, so many are quick to shout "ED!" here. Personally, I have lost weight twice by eating 900-1000 calories a day, I felt just fine, and had normal physicals. Once I got to maintaining I ate a normal amount of calories each day (about 1,500-1,800). I have never been in bad health and I didn't lose weight when I ate more than that a day even with exercise.

    And your losing weight again, I see. How's this pattern working for you?

    I would also question the logging accuracy of claimed intake.

    OP, the part that's disordered is your fear of eating more and the fact that 1000 calories and below is NOT enough for anyone to function on who isn't somehow compromised and need medical supervision. I agree with the others that finding a doctor to explain to you how and why you need to properly fuel yourself is in order

    It actually worked perfectly until I got a desk job after having a physical one for 12 years. I gained weight because of no activity/office snacks and parties. I'm doing the same 900-1,000 calorie a day diet that worked before along with 30 minutes a day of exercise. You can question my accuracy all you want, but trust me I'm meticulous about every single calorie. I just want the poster to know that I feel fine working out with 1,000 calories and am in perfect health and it's not ALWAYS a terrible thing. Everyone is different.
  • SrJoben
    SrJoben Posts: 484 Member
    Hi, all. I am two months into my health and fitness journey, and so far, I have lost 15 pounds. I am at a healthy weight now, but I am still 15 pounds from my ultimate goal weight. My problem is that I am scared to eat more than 1,000 calories a day. On most days, I eat 800 - 1,000 calories (I never eat less than 800 calories, so it isn't too extreme), but when I eat any more than that, even one calorie over, I feel like a failure. In my mind, I know that I could eat up to 1,500 calories a day and still lose weight (it just might take longer), but I am so scared that eating a single calorie more than 1,000 a day will make me plateau, or worse, gain weight. It is so hard to stick to a 1,000-calorie diet that I skip meals, restrict all high-calorie foods regardless of whether or not they are healthy (e.g., I refuse to eat bananas, nuts, etc., even in moderation), etc. to avoid going over my daily limit. I know that this isn't healthy for my body or my mind, so what can I do to change?

    This is in part an example of Catastrophic Thinking. One way to deal with this to some extent is to examine the consequences. Ask yourself "And then what?"

    So you gain a pound or two, and then what happens?
  • brynnsmom
    brynnsmom Posts: 945 Member
    Years ago I had a stint of undereating. I actually lost more rapidly by eating a bare minimum of 1,200 calories/day. Anything below that really isn't necessary and, like others have pointed out, can lead to binging. Food is fuel and shouldn't be feared.
  • paulzli
    paulzli Posts: 72 Member
    You need to eat a minimum of 1,200/day calories to be healthy. Sounds like you may have an eating disorder.... seek professional help immediately. Bless.

    I eat 1199 calories a day and I don't think I'm going to die in the next 15 minutes.
  • RGv2
    RGv2 Posts: 5,789 Member
    Wow, so many are quick to shout "ED!" here. Personally, I have lost weight twice by eating 900-1000 calories a day, I felt just fine, and had normal physicals. Once I got to maintaining I ate a normal amount of calories each day (about 1,500-1,800). I have never been in bad health and I didn't lose weight when I ate more than that a day even with exercise.

    And your losing weight again, I see. How's this pattern working for you?

    I would also question the logging accuracy of claimed intake.

    OP, the part that's disordered is your fear of eating more and the fact that 1000 calories and below is NOT enough for anyone to function on who isn't somehow compromised and need medical supervision. I agree with the others that finding a doctor to explain to you how and why you need to properly fuel yourself is in order

    It actually worked perfectly until I got a desk job after having a physical one for 12 years. I gained weight because of no activity/office snacks and parties. I'm doing the same 900-1,000 calorie a day diet that worked before along with 30 minutes a day of exercise. You can question my accuracy all you want, but trust me I'm meticulous about every single calorie. I just want the poster to know that I feel fine working out with 1,000 calories and am in perfect health and it's not ALWAYS a terrible thing. Everyone is different.

    Just so I understand here.....

    You kept your intake at 1000 calories and started gaining because you got a desk job?

    Please tell me you're eating back at least some of your exercise cals on top of this.
  • PugBug20
    PugBug20 Posts: 55
    Thank you for the advice. I will seriously consider going to a doctor. I don't think I have an eating disorder, but I will admit that I have always had an unhealthy relationship with food. Since junior high school (I am now in college), I have been stuck in a vicious cycle of binging, restricting, binging, restricting; there has never been an in between. I think I need to face the truth and finally seek help. In the mean time, I think I am going to follow the advice that some of you have given me and increase my daily calories by 50 - 100 each week until I feel comfortable eating a "normal" amount of calories (1,200 - 1,400) a day. Thanks again.
  • Mr_Knight
    Mr_Knight Posts: 9,532 Member
    It might also be helpful if you opened your diary so we can get an idea of how you are eating.
  • Kalikel
    Kalikel Posts: 9,603 Member
    Thank you for the advice. I will seriously consider going to a doctor. I don't think I have an eating disorder, but I will admit that I have always had an unhealthy relationship with food. Since junior high school (I am now in college), I have been stuck in a vicious cycle of binging, restricting, binging, restricting; there has never been an in between. I think I need to face the truth and finally seek help. Thanks again.
    Good for you. :)
  • ksy1969
    ksy1969 Posts: 700 Member
    You need to eat a minimum of 1,200/day calories to be healthy. Sounds like you may have an eating disorder.... seek professional help immediately. Bless.

    I eat 1199 calories a day and I don't think I'm going to die in the next 15 minutes.

    I sure hope you are joking. Please say you are joking.
  • gabrielleelliott90
    gabrielleelliott90 Posts: 854 Member
    No eating more than 1,000 calories will not make you gain weight. We are meant to eat at least 1200 calories. Please get help.
  • deksgrl
    deksgrl Posts: 7,237 Member
    Get professional help. The End.
  • amusedmonkey
    amusedmonkey Posts: 10,330 Member
    Well, before jumping to conclusions about a possible eating disorder maybe you could make that anxiety work for you rather than against you. Some research suggests that eating that low may actually lower the amount of calories it takes for you to maintain. This is called adaptation. Another thing to consider is that if you are consistently that low your muscle mass will suffer, decreasing your maintenance calories even further.

    A low calorie day here and there is fine, but when you do that every day you are looking at deficiencies, muscle loss, fatigue, decreased performance, hormonal issues, hunger, irritability, and just being plain unhappy. An unhappy dieter is a dieter who will quit too soon or rebound and gain back.

    Basically what you are afraid will happen if you go over 1000 is what will actually happen once you reach maintenance at such a low calorie diet and you may need to maintain eating a lower amount than normal. Yes, if you increase your calories you WILL plateau or even gain because you will be retaining water and having more food in your digestive system, but that gain is NOT real and should not scare you. Just consider that weight your new starting weight and watch the fat slowly melt away while you're eating whatever you want and not hungry.

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