Starvation Mode: What is it and how does it effect our bodies?

Let's get to the point...  Starvation mode is when the body starts to respond to a prolonged period of low calorie dieting. 

So what exactly does that mean?  Your body uses the contents in your digestive tract (what you just ate) first to produce energy and function.  It will then move to your glycogen reserves which are located in you liver cells and muscles.  After about 6 hrs your glycogen levels will become depleted and your body will then dive into your fat reserve (this is what everyone hopes for).  Unfortunetly the fat reserves are only useful for 2-3 days before your metabolism starts to adjust and becomes more efficient.  Once this process takes place your body will want to use up your lean muscles for protien.  Now instead of your fat reserved being used to aid in energy, your lean muscle is now being burned for energy.

The starvation mode generally targets people who regularly perform periods of fasting.  It can also effect those who participate in crash diets which lead to yo-yo dieting.  It is best to stick with a healthy balanced diet to avoid the effects these methods can create.