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Anorexia/Eating Disorders/Starvation
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Question
How long does your body stay in starvation mode? Also, how long does the weight stay on during this time to finally come off. I was in starvation mode at one point because of my diet, and I know that body builders do it. I put on weight, so I started eating more again because I couldn't stand the weight gain. How to anorexics get so small then when they gain the weight first because of this mode and how long does it take to finally start coming off?
Whoever told you that body builders starve was very mistaken. They, in fact, take in quite a number of calories in order to support the muscle. You see, when food intake is too far down, the body uses MUSCLE for fuel and even converts some of it to add to fat. The less muscle, the lower the metabolism (this is what is called 'starvation mode'). It's actually like a bear going into hibernation. Everything that can be done by the body to preserve fat and/or MAKE fat is instinctively done.
When there's virtually no muscle left, the body taps into organs and bone - and this is why anorexia is the number ONE most fatal of all psychological disorders (it's not just an 'eating disorder').
I've got permanent heart damage and loss of height (1") due to complications from anorexia.
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Answers by Expert:
Reverend Abbott
Expertise
I have lived it and survived it. I know every excuse, reason, thought, feeling and rationalization - and I'm going to be very honest in my advice.
Experience
I've lost (& gained)HUNDREDS of lbs over a lifetime, more than 30 years of "professional dieting". Presently a counselor for sufferers of eating disorders, a nutritional advisor and spiritual counselor (Reverend,doctor); I've been on every diet there is and used the most bizarre weight loss products you can imagine. I am FORMERLY obese, anorexic (several times), bulimic MOST of the time - and maintaining size 4, with no gimmicks, devices, programs, pills or supplements.
I currently investigate the diet industry on behalf of consumers who do not need to be ripped off while struggling to be healthy. I WILL expose them all and I WON'T be intimidated, bullied or bought. My advice is for cost-free options. I have nothing whatsoever to gain from my recommendation(s). I make no money from my website and I sell, promote, endorse NO diet/health products, programs or devices. You'll also never see me on the receiving end of a hidden camera report...but you can be assured, I won't quit until I've exposed those who are out to take advantage of you.
It's a matter of choices. We need to stop complicating things.
Degrees & Certifications:
I'm an ordained minister (Reverend, doctor) spiritual/living/behavior counselor.
I have a medical education and management background (with college). Through early 90's (until retirement) Who's Who Of American Women; Who's Who On the East Coast; Who's Who Among Emerging American Leaders; Who's Who Of Intellectuals - all for "outstanding performance in (my) field".
Organizations
While active (through the 1980's), included in Who's Who Of American Women; Who's Who On the East Coast; Who's Who Among Emerging American Leaders; Who's Who Of Intellectuals - all for "outstanding performance in (my) field".
Education/Credentials
Ordained Minister; phlebotomist; medical information researcher for court cases
Awards and Honors
Doctorate of Divinity
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