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Published on: 7/21/2026

Is it possible to gain weight by eating too few calories?

Eating too few calories can actually cause weight gain. When calorie intake drops too low, the body raises stress hormones like cortisol, slows metabolism to conserve energy, and increases fat storage. Over time, this metabolic slowdown makes losing weight harder and regaining it easier, even on a restrictive diet.

If you're eating less but gaining weight, something deeper may be going on—hormonal imbalances, thyroid issues, or metabolic changes could all play a role. Rather than guessing, take a free, instant, online symptom check to better understand what's happening in your body and get clear guidance on your next steps.

Reviewed for medical accuracy: 07/20/2026

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Explanation

When you eat too few calories, your body can react in ways that might cause weight gain instead of loss. 1. Stress Hormones: Low calorie diets can increase stress hormones like cortisol. High levels of cortisol might make your body hold onto fat rather than burn it. 2. Metabolism Changes: Eating very few calories can slow down your metabolism. This means your body uses less energy, which can make it harder to lose weight. 3. Health Effects: Very low calorie diets can have other health impacts, like affecting your thyroid, which helps control how your body uses energy.

If you're experiencing unexpected changes in your weight or other concerning symptoms, you can get personalized insights by taking a free AI symptom checker test to better understand what might be happening with your body.

In summary, while it might seem like eating less would lead to weight loss, the body's complex reactions can sometimes cause the opposite effect.

(References)

  • Tomiyama AJ, Mann T, Vinas D, Hunger JM, Dejager J, & Taylor SE. (2010). Low calorie dieting increases cortisol. Psychosomatic medicine, 20368473.

  • Wadden TA, Mason G, Foster GD, Stunkard AJ, & Prange AJ. (1990). Effects of a very low calorie diet on weight, thyroid .... International journal of obesity, 2341229.

  • Koffler M, & Kisch ES. (1996). Starvation diet and very-low-calorie diets may induce .... Journal of diabetes and its complications, 8777329.

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