Tag: Starvation mode myth

According to a systematic review published in *Medical Research Archives*, the long-held fear of permanent 'metabolic damage' from underfeeding in non-obese individuals is not supported by current literature. However, eating below your basal metabolic rate for prolonged periods can still lead to significant metabolic and health issues.

According to research, while a calorie deficit is necessary for weight loss, prolonged and excessive restriction can trigger metabolic adaptations to conserve energy. Your body interprets this as a threat, initiating survival mechanisms that can negatively affect nearly every physiological system.

A calorie deficit is the fundamental requirement for weight loss. The myth that bodies automatically store fat when not eating has persisted for decades, fueled by the 'starvation mode' myth. This article explores the physiological process behind what happens to metabolism and fat storage when reducing caloric intake.

According to a 2020 research review, prolonged calorie restriction can cause metabolic adaptation, where your body's metabolic rate slows down to conserve energy. This physiological response is one of the main reasons people ask, "do you get fatter if you eat less?" The simple answer is no, but the complex reality involves a delicate balance between eating less and avoiding severe, unsustainable undereating.