How does starvation affect the body's metabolism?

Starvation significantly impacts the body's metabolism by slowing it down. During periods of starvation, the body enters a state of conservation to preserve energy due to the lack of available nutrients. In this state, several physiological adaptations occur, most notably the reduction in metabolic rate.

When energy intake is insufficient, the body prioritizes essential functions and begins to utilize stored energy, primarily from fat and muscle. As the body runs low on available glucose from carbohydrates, it reduces the overall energy expenditure to ensure that vital functions continue while also slowing down processes that are not immediately necessary for survival. This metabolic slowdown is a protective mechanism to prolong the body's survival during times of insufficient caloric intake.

Other responses suggest either an increase in metabolism or maintaining it at regular levels, which contradicts the body's natural response to starvation. Additionally, stimulating anabolic processes implies building up body tissues, which is also unlikely in a starvation state where the body is primarily focused on catabolic processes (breaking down tissues for energy). Thus, the option indicating a slowdown in metabolism reflects the accurate physiological adaptation the body undergoes in response to starvation.