Why Extreme Calorie Restriction Backfires: The Metabolic Cost

Severe calorie restriction (500/day) **triggers survival mode**, slowing metabolism and spiking cortisol while your body breaks down muscle for fuel instead of fat. Muscle loss from extreme dieting **permanently reduces daily calorie burn**. Studies show 500-calorie diets caused more muscle loss than moderate 1,250-calorie approaches with similar weight loss. **Moderate deficits preserve muscle** and stabilize hormones, and maintain normal metabolism: the sustainable approach your body doesn't resist.

Originally published by
Vibin: Anish Moonka
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