Question:
I have a question about 'starvation mode'.

I know the theory about our bodies going into 'Emergency mode' when we are lacking calories. But is there someone who can explain why those on 'Survivor' always lose so much weight in just 30 days? They certainly cannot be getting enough calories. And why is it that I lost 30 lbs. in my first month post-op when I was consuming 200-300 calories and little activity? Now that I consume 700-900 and exercise, the weight loss is super slow. I'm wondering if I should try to cut back. This just totally goes against the theory I hear so much about. Can someone clarify this for me? Thanks!    — Cheri M. (posted on April 8, 2002)

April 8, 2002
Starvation mode is TRUE. What is INCORRECT is how much your metabolism changes when you go into starvation mode. Typically, you use 10% less calories in starvation mode. Some people estimate that ity can be as high as 25%. So if you need 2000 calories to maintain your weight and go into starvation mode your body only needs 1800 now. Yes thats less, but you are still losing. People are under the misconception that you body can shut down to needing a drastically low amount. I am sure I will get beat up for this but when I decide to starve I really do it. i fast for a few days and load up on vitamins. I automatically drop when i do that and sometimes it is a mental jumpstart to getting back on the healthy eating track. Pre-op I would do that and drop 7 pounds then gain it all back over the next week via Big Mac attacks. Fortunately, with surgery, I can lose those pounds and keep them off when I go back to sensible eating. Okay--I am off the subject now. Ask you doc and he can break down the whole metabolism/ starvation mode thing for you.
   — Courtney W.

April 9, 2002
The people on that show work their butts off. They have to build stuff, carry heavy stuff, swim, run etc. By the time they do all that it's surprising they'd want to eat at all, ( I'd prefer to sleep) They are burning way more calories than they're consumming.
   — Cindee A.