subject: Why Not To Deprive Yourself When Trying To Sculpt Your Arms [print this page] We would all like to tone arms, and we would all like to do it fast. In this day and age, we expect lightning quick results.
Unfortunately, said women are willing to go to extremes to get their pair of toned arms ASAP. And here are 7 reasons why you should not deprive yourself of food to tone arms:
1. Not enough nutrients. In our society it's hard to get enough nutrients even with a surplus of calories. So a massive decrease in calories can put you at risk for being malnourished.
2. Weak bones. Bone density is very very important for the female body. As levels of estrogen change with aging so does the risk for fractures. And not getting enough calories also increases the risk of bone related issues.
3. Decreased strength. A loss in strength and muscle translates in a decrease in metabolism which translates into less calories burned even while you sleep.
4. Suppressed hormones. If you really want to tone arms, you need hormones on your side. They are the most powerful substances for burning arm fat. Unfortunately, massive caloric restriction and hormonal production do not mix well.
5. Suppressed immune system. Go on an extreme crash diet to tone arms quickly and expect a higher frequency of colds and fevers. Trust me, I've been there and done that. The female body needs a bare minimum of nutritious calories to fight of disease.
6. Reproductive system shutdown. It's quite common for gymnasts to lose their period because they don't eat enough (to make weight) and they exercise a lot. Without enough calories coming in, the female body will shut down its reproductive organs.
7. Mood swings. The female body needs calories (and carbs) to stay mentally balanced. A massive drop in calories increases your risk for depression.
Crash dieting is simply not worth it. There are too many risks associated with excessive caloric restriction. Furthermore, you're more likely to gain all the weight back once you start eating normal again. If you want to tone arms, do it the right way not the quick and unhealthy way.
