Is eating less meals/skipping meals to lose weight actually bad? i've heard that "starvation mode" is only an issue if you are barely eating.

Bad: Drastic changes in diet (eating and then skipping) is not good. It puts your body in a shock wave mode. Healthy, reduced portion eating is much better.

See below: Frequently skipping meals can signal the body to conserve calories as if it's being starved. Eating sensibly (portion control; healthful foods) 3 times a day (or several "minimeals") combined with exercise is the best way to lose weight.