starvation...

KateHumphrey
KateHumphrey Posts: 36
edited September 24 in Health and Weight Loss
Short version, my body has been in starvation mode for a few years. Ok, like 10 years. I've increased my calorie intake, and am exercising daily for general health. However, since I've upped my calories, I've gained a pound back. I'm guessing it's because my body doesn't know it's safe to come out of starvation mode? Just wanted to make sure it's normal to gain a bit before losing again...if so, how long does it take your body to recognize that there's enough? Thanks...

Replies

  • crystal_sapphire
    crystal_sapphire Posts: 1,205 Member
    is there any way you can see a nutritionist to sort this out?
  • jlsAhava
    jlsAhava Posts: 411 Member
    I think the following link will give you the explanation you're looking for:

    http://www.myfitnesspal.com/topics/show/3047-700-calories-a-day-and-not-losing?hl=700+calories+a+day
  • hpsnickers1
    hpsnickers1 Posts: 2,783 Member
    Yes, you will experience a slight weight gain as your metabolism adjusts to the calorie change. I was heading there when I put on 20 pounds in less than a year.

    You might have read this thread before but is good information.

    http://www.myfitnesspal.com/topics/show/3047-700-calories-a-day-and-not-losing

    Someone beat me to the punch!! I typed too slow!:happy:
  • KateHumphrey
    KateHumphrey Posts: 36
    Thanks for the link. I hadn't read that yet... it's definitely hard to work to determinedly at something all week and see a gain... But I'm determined! :)
  • spackham
    spackham Posts: 252 Member
    I was under-eating most of my life and did not know it. Everyone around me could eat so much more than me and I am taller. If I ate what they ate, I would put on weight so I thought it was just my genes because I would exercise more than everyone else too. My mom was obese so I didn't want to go there! After 30 years of doing that I finally gave up and said, "Okay, body, you want to be fat? Let me help you out with that." Then I got to the point of misery I could not live with. So I started eating 500-800 cals and was planning on staying under 1000 cals with a few day up to 1200. (Ya, "up" to 1200.) THEN... tuh-duuuuh...getting on MFP and watching a show "Supersize vs Superskinny" taught me that I was eating way too little. I cried my eyes out! All those years and things could have been different. I cried some more and then when to a wellness center and am seeing a nutritionist, coach and trainer. Just so you know, my weight goes up regularly and then takes a jump down but not as low if my loss was steady. So, I am with you, baby!!! We can do this! My nutritionist said my body will correct itself over time, how long is different for everyone but it will get normal. So, like you, I have to watch that I don't eat too much and especially don't eat too little. Good Luck!!! BTW, yanno what is super fun? One day was super busy and I just had not eaten enough even after dinner and a snack so ate about 16 chocolate covered almonds to boost my cals because I needed it. Then next day I FINALLY dropped over a pound. So, I know it is tough having gone the semi-starvation route for so long, but there are some up sides too.
  • chickybabe05
    chickybabe05 Posts: 48
    its ok your definately not alone in this one. it appears i have been doing this to myself for a while a never knew it. I only started counting calories about two weeks ago and everyday its a struggle to get anywhere near my calorie intake goals. i don't do it intentionally, i eat when im hungry but its never enough......don't worry with all the available infomation and support we can make the changes and do it!!! i don't know about you but for me i just have to my health depends on it!! good luck, and im here if you want to talk. :flowerforyou:
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