The set-point theory suggests that your body has a natural weight range that it aims to stay within, just like how a thermostat regulates temperature. This range is influenced by a combination of genetics, hormones, and environmental factors. When your weight falls below this range, your body activates processes to save energy and prevent further weight loss.
This idea helps explain why weight loss can slow down over time and why keeping the weight off can feel challenging. It’s not just about willpower or effort; your body has built-in systems designed to protect its energy reserves and maintain balance.
When you lose weight, your body responds with changes that make it harder to continue losing:
These changes are your body’s way of protecting itself. They were developed over thousands of years to prevent starvation during times of food shortage. While this is useful in survival situations, it can feel frustrating when you’re trying to lose weight and keep it off.
Your set point, the weight range your body naturally tries to stay in, is influenced by a mix of genetics and your environment:
Your set point isn’t set in stone, and it can resist quick changes. However, with steady, long-term adjustments to your habits and lifestyle, you can slowly shift it to a lower range.
The set-point theory helps to explain why weight loss doesn’t always follow a straight path. Plateaus and even some weight regain are normal as your body adjusts to protect itself. These responses aren’t failures; they’re natural processes.
Here’s how understanding this can help you stay on track:
The set-point theory explains why your body works to stay within a certain weight range. It does this by adjusting your hormones, metabolism, and even behaviours to keep things balanced. Understanding this can help you set realistic weight loss goals and be kinder to yourself as you navigate your body’s natural responses.
At Roczen, we’re here to support you through every step of your journey, helping you tackle challenges and celebrate progress in ways that go beyond just the number on the scale.
The information on this page is for educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always consult a qualified healthcare professional for personalised medical guidance.