Low Carbs, High Activity, Counting Calories =Weight Gain?

RJ0274

Good Morning All - 54 year old male here. I've been working out for about a year and have been keeping a diary of all food and exercise activity on this site since that time. All was good through the Holidays having lost about 30 lbs. and increased strength. Then, about a month ago, my weight started creeping upward - I've only re-gained about 3-5 lbs. (fluctuates - water weight?) but I cannot drop the weight I've re-gained, let alone continue toward my goal weight.

I tried to "jump start" the weight loss by doing a low carb diet - similar to the Atkin's Induction Phase - while still working out (weights and cardio) but I've actually GAINED more weight! Frustrating!

It's been suggested that my body may be in starvation mode trying to hang onto calories. OK, I get that, but at some point, it seems "starvation mode" should end and start tapping into the reserved fat cells for sustenance.

Any insights/suggestions would be appreciated.