Does dieting for too long slow down your metabolism

I have been dieting on and off for two years. I lost a total of 20 pounds and have taken breaks periodically. I am planning on losing another 5 pounds but I'm worried that after two years my metabolism will be tired from all of this and losing weight will be much harder.
Thanks in advance!

Replies

  • arditarose
    arditarose Posts: 15,573 Member
    In your case, I would not worry. 20 lbs over two years with breaks should not be an issue as far as metabolic adaptation goes.
  • senecarr
    senecarr Posts: 5,377 Member
    To a practical extent? Your metabolism probably has not permanently changed more than the difference in that you now have less mass to maintain.
    Technically, 20 pounds is less that your body has to maintain, and some studies indicate that being in a deficit alters metabolism within 8 days or less, though such studies indicate it also returns to normal in a similar time frame when returning to maintenance.
  • DavPul
    DavPul Posts: 61,406 Member
    arditarose wrote: »
    In your case, I would not worry. 20 lbs over two years with breaks should not be an issue as far as metabolic adaptation goes.

    What she said
  • GaleHawkins
    GaleHawkins Posts: 8,159 Member
    THE REVERSE DIET DEBATE: Eric Helms + Menno Henselmans vs. Layne Norton + Peter Fitschen
    https://youtube.com/watch?v=swrul81qco8

    These four highly educated trainers discuss metabolic issues that can occurring when eating at low calories over time. They talk about negative metabolic adaption starting at about 43:00 on the video. Prior to that is the open statements of each of the four. My point is these guys get into the science of metabolic adaption that may or may not be an issue because it varies so from one person to another. Take it from the start would be best if you have the time.