Have you ever hit a plateau? Have you ever wondered why “dieting” never works for you? Or why do you gain back even more weight when you come off the diet? 

This may have to do with something known as the “Set Point Theory”. This theory was originally developed in 1982 to explain why repeated dieting is unsuccessful in producing long-term changes in weight or shape. According to the “Set Point Theory”, every individual has a controlled thermostat-like system built into them that determines how much fat they carry. Body fat percentage and body weight are internal controls that are set differently in every individual; some have a low setting, others have a high setting. This is biologically and genetically determined just like our height and eye color. Right now, there is no possible way to change our set point.

The set point has an abundance of information about body fat stores where it’s job is to keep weight fairly constant. Research conveys that an individual’s weight at their set point is optimal for proficient activity and a stable, happy state. If the set point is driven low, this will slow the individual down, leaving them feeling lethargic, decreasing the amount of calories expended and overall, making it impossible to lose weight!

Scientists researching this theory estimate that the average person has a set point range of about 10-20 pounds. This means that the body will be comfortable in this range and not want to resist the change. This explains why it is easy to lose 10-20 pounds and it is common to hit a plateau after this loss. This can be very frustrating for dieters as they continue to restrict food intake, but they can’t lose any more weight. This is our body’s set point fighting to retain it’s natural, determined weight. 

This theory also explains uncontrollable binges during dieting. Our bodies are asking for more food because we are in a starved state and famished for food. Our metabolism slows down when we go under our body’s set point, but our metabolism can also increase if we go above it. The body fights against the weight gain by increasing metabolic rate, raising body temperature, and ultimately burning off the unwanted calories. Long-term caloric deprivation, or diets, slows down the body’s metabolic rate, burns calories slowly, so that our body can maintain at its desired weight.

So does this mean I am doomed?

Absolutely not. 

First, we must accept that our body has this set system, and that extreme restriction will only harm our metabolism in the future. Immerse yourself into an exercise routine, eat healthfully, and your body weight will eventually go to where it needs to be. Consistency is key. Sign up with one of our certified personal trainers today, so we can reach those goals, and make you feel your best.

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