The nutritional stress can also result in electrolyte imbalance, which is excessively low levels of potassium in the blood, and which can lead to heart attacks. Recent studies have found a direct link between osteoporosis and dieting. Osteoporosis is a deadly disease in which calcium is leached from the bones, resulting in fragile and deteriorating bones. Usually thought of as post-menopausal condition, now many women, especially dancers and athletes, suffer from osteoporosis. In addition, older women who have maintained a higher body fat percentage are less likely to suffer from osteoporosis as well as many other conditions associated with menopause.
Fat cells retain estrogen which helps maintain the calcium in the bones.
The epidemic rise in eating disorders is staggering. Studies now show that dieting is the precursor to developing these deadly diseases. Current estimates indicate that one in five women is suffering from a severe form of an eating disorder, and eight out of ten have some of the symptoms of one or more of these illnesses. And more men are developing these disorders as well. Normal eating does not need a meal plan.