Tag: Bone density loss

According to the National Institutes of Health, excessive dieting or poor nutrient intake can increase the risk for bone loss and osteoporosis. While weight loss offers many health benefits, certain dieting methods, especially those that are highly restrictive or rapid, can significantly impact bone density. The relationship between dieting and osteoporosis is more complex than it appears, involving nutrient deficiencies, hormonal changes, and reduced mechanical stress on bones.

Studies from institutions like the University of Minnesota have documented the profound physical and psychological toll of chronic food restriction. Many people may not realize the extensive and severe side effects of long term undereating, from metabolic slowdown to bone density loss. It is a serious issue affecting both physical and mental well-being.

While space itself has no calories, the human body needs a precise energy intake to survive and function in microgravity. The average astronaut consumes between 2,500 and 3,500 calories daily, depending on their workload, to address the unique physiological challenges of space travel.

According to a 2023 study published in *BMC Public Health*, underweight individuals have a significantly increased risk of fractures. This raises a critical question for many: **can your bones hurt from not eating**? The answer is yes, as prolonged periods of under-eating and malnutrition can have a serious and painful impact on your skeletal system.