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Diet and Nutrition

Starvation mode

01/25/2010

Question:

I am a 42 yr old woman weighing 300 pds. My doctor has recently told me that my body is cycling in starvation mode, that I need to try to eat about 6-8 small meals per day. She has also suggested that I consume some nutrition shakes. I have no appetite and will go anywhere from 3-5 days before I eat a meal. I had anorexa when I was 14. I don`t intentionally starve myself, I just don`t like to smell, look or taste it. I am also going to counseling for this. Do you think this diagnosis is correct as well as what she has suggested?

Answer:

Thanks for your question.  While I cannot give you specific diet advice on the internet, I agree with your physician that you may be cycling into starvation mode by your lack of food intake for 3-5 days. 

It is dangerous to do this over time as you may suffer electrolyte abnormalities, dehydration, muscle loss and decreased metabolism.  Given your prior history of an eating disorder, I suggest you continue meeting with your counselor, but also consider working with a Registered Dietitian who specializes in eating disorders.  He or she may be able to help you get your eating habits back on track.

You may find one via the American Dietetic Association web site:
http://www.eatright.org/

Good luck!

Related Resources:

American Dietetic Association

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Response by:

University of Cincinnati Lisa Cicciarello Andrews, MEd, RD, LD
Adjunct Faculty
University of Cincinnati
Lisa Cicciarello Andrews, MEd, RD, LD