Is Your Thermostat Working?
Is Your Body's Thermostat Sabotaging Your Weight Loss?
Have you ever lost weight only to watch those pounds creep back—plus a few extras? This frustrating yo-yo pattern happens to many people, and there's actually a scientific explanation behind it. Let's explore why this happens and what you can do about it.
Your Body Has a "Set Point" Weight
Think of your body like a house with a thermostat. This thermostat works to maintain your weight at a certain level—your "set point." This set point is determined by both your genetics and your environment. Unfortunately, for many people struggling with weight issues, their set point is at an unhealthy weight.
How Your Body's Thermostat Works
When you gain weight above your set point:
Your body's "air conditioning" kicks in
You naturally feel less hungry
You experience fewer cravings
Your metabolism speeds up
Your body works to bring you back to your set point
When you lose weight below your set point:
Your body's "furnace" turns on
Your body thinks you're in danger
Your metabolism slows down to conserve energy
Your hunger increases dramatically
Cravings go into overdrive
Your body fights to return to its set point
Interestingly, people who can eat whatever they want without gaining weight actually have an unusual system. Throughout human history, those with "inefficient thermostats" who couldn't gain weight easily would be less likely to survive during famines. This explains why it's relatively rare to see people who can eat unlimited amounts without weight gain.
How to Reset Your Efficient Thermostat
1) Focus on Food Quality, Not Just Quantity
Don't just eat smaller portions of the same foods. Minimize ultra-processed products that cause insulin spikes and crashes. Consider a metabolic calorie-shifting diet approach to keep your body from adapting to a single eating pattern.
You can find out more at https://drkatzweightloss.com/blog-/metabolic-calorie-shifting-diet .
2) Move More, Build Strength
Physical activity is essential for overall health. Combine both cardio and strength training in your routine. Remember that you can't exercise away poor food choices. Strength training is particularly important during weight loss to prevent muscle loss.
3) Consider Medication Support
Weight loss medications, especially GLP-1 agonists, can help by:
Decreasing cravings
Helping you feel satisfied with smaller portions
Extending time between meals
Increasing your preference for healthier foods
Understanding your body's natural responses to weight loss can help you prepare for the challenges ahead. Remember that setbacks are part of the process—they're your body's natural response, not a personal failure.
Success comes not only from what you do but also from understanding what's happening in your body as you work toward better health.
Dr. Leon Katz
Medical Weight Loss Specialist
This article is for educational purposes. Please discuss with you clinician before pursuing any information presented in this article.
