One problem is that your metabolism changes when your body thinks it is being starved. Another issue is that different types of food require different processes to metabolize. If you wish to develop a better understanding of the topic, I recommend the book I linked above.
How does that disprove basic thermodynamics?
Another issue is that different types of food require different processes to metabolize.
So what? If I burn more energy than I consume, I will lose weight. The source of that energy doesn't matter.
If you wish to develop a better understanding of the topic, I recommend the book I linked above.
Taubes denies the thermodynamic perspective. That's just one of many reasons people should run fast and far from his advice.
Ok, well, I understand all that. I have a background in living systems. If you metabolism slows, you don’t burn as many calories. Red’s statement stands—his observation is correct in that if you consume a thousand and burn 1100 you will lose weight. He made no reference to metabolic changes. Also consider that when you ramp up the exercise routine you also ramp up metabolism and burn calories at a higher rate. Personally, I have pretty much maintained my same weight for about 40 years by adjusting how much food I consume, and how much physical activity I engage. It does take a good bit of effort. Starvation diets are mostly useless in the long-term.