Some of the effects of not eating a healthy, balanced diet include:

• Reduced energy and strength — eating fewer calories (energy) and taking in less protein than your body needs can cause tiredness. Caring for someone can be exhausting so it is important you have enough energy to fuel you throughout the day.
• Weaker immune system — a poor nutritional intake may lead to a weaker immune system. A strong immune system is important for fighting illness as the last thing you need when caring for someone is to feel under the weather.
• Unplanned weight loss — you may go through periods when you have a poor appetite and don’t feel like eating as much, which can be triggered by lots of things. Whatever the reason, taking in fewer calories than the body needs can lead to unintended weight loss. If your involuntary weight loss continues please speak to your GP.
• Weight gain — busy and demanding lifestyles can make it difficult for you to eat a healthy, balanced diet. When you need a quick energy fix it can be easy to reach for junk food and snacks, which are high in calories and low in nutrients. Whatever the reason, eating too many calories can lead to weight gain. Even if you are overweight the body may still be lacking in certain nutrients that are important for health.