Why did I stop losing weight?
Asked by jesabel123 on May 18, 2009
in Eating Disorders
I am a 20 year old female, 5’ 2" and 92 lb, and I am desperate to lose more weight. I have restricted myself to no more than 400 calories a day, mostly less, and have started jogging, sit-ups and stair jumps for at least 30 minutes per day. I initially lost 14 lb, but now no matter what I do, I can't lose anymore. It's like my body is just refusing to respond. I just need to lose a few more pounds and then I'll be fine. I really can't take being this fat anymore. Please help!
Answer
You have encountered the “starvation effect“, which often happens with a 10% weight loss, and so you are right on target: 106 - 14 = 92 pounds or 10% (You’ve got to love the wisdom of the body. ) Your words exhibit eating disordered thoughts and behaviors. Take the EAT-26, eating disorders screening test, and share the results with your doctor right away. Your BMI of 16.8 is in the underweight range. A healthy BMI is 19.0 - 24.9; that is 104 - 134 pounds for you. You need to gain weight by eating at least 2000 calories a day, with adjustments as needed, for steady progress.
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