I track on MPF and have before starting my LB process. Since starting my pre-op diet (protien shakes, fat free dairy & broth) I have been getting a 'warning' each day that I am not eating enough calories I should bump it up to 1200 (the minimum number my nutritionist in the past said to stay above). Now I know that doesn't really apply to those of us with/about to get WLS, but post surgery with the continued low calorie count, is starvation mode a concern?

I can tell you this much - I am post-op about 9 months out and I track with My Fitness Pal - I often have a difficult time making the 1200 calories but I have been stuck at the same weight now for weeks. I also get the warnings and it is sooooo frustrating!! I am working my butt off, I'm eating healthy - no cheating and my weight won't budge. I'm ready to tear my hair out. So pre-op I wouldn't worry about it too much - just do what your surgeon asked you to do. Post-op (once you are back to solid foods) I'd really try to get as close to 1200 as you can. Has anyone else experienced this??

I asked my nutritionist about this, and this is what she told me:

"Starvation mode" isn't really starvation at all. It's a bad name for what really is a type of self-induced metabolic syndrome. Essentially, when you don't eat enough calories your metabolism slows down. You will still lose inevitably but slower. This is why very often people only 800-900 calories a day see a weight loss increase when jumping as little as to 1000 calories a day.

MFP, Lose It, all those are geared towards non-bariatric patients. I set my Lose It so my calorie maximum is 1200 daily. Every time I adjust it (because it self adjusts as my weight declines) I get the warning you're talking about.

Just ignore it, especially while you're on the pre-op diet. Do as your doctor and nutritionist recommend. After you're post surgery and back on normal foods, you can always play with your calorie intake to see what works best for you.

Best wishes!

I get the same message on mine. I think they base everything on a minimum 1200 cal diet. I just ignore it and go with it.