Describing the Weight-Reduced State: Physiology, Behavior, and Interventions

Although many persons with obesity can lose weight by lifestyle (diet and physical activity) therapy, successful long-term weight loss is difficult to achieve, and most people who lose weight regain their lost weight over time. The neurohormonal, physiological, and behavioral factors that promote weight recidivism are unclear and complex. The National Institute of Diabetes and Digestive and Kidney Diseases convened a workshop in June 2019, titled The Physiology of the Weight-Reduced State, to explore the mechanisms and integrative physiology of adaptations in appetite, energy expenditure, and thermogenesis that occur in the weight-reduced state and that may oppose weight-loss maintenance. The proceedings from the first session of this workshop are presented here. Drs. Michael Rosenbaum, Kevin Hall, and Rudolph Leibel discussed the physiological factors that contribute to weight regain; Dr. Michael Lowe discussed the biobehavioral issues involved in weight-loss maintenance; Dr. John Jakicic discussed the influence of physical activity on long-term weight-loss maintenance; and Dr. Louis Aronne discussed the ability of drug therapy to maintain weight loss.

Automated summary

Although many individuals with obesity can lose weight through lifestyle therapy, successful long-term weight loss is difficult to achieve, with most people regaining the lost weight over time. The factors contributing to weight recidivism are unclear and complex, involving neurohormonal, physiological, and behavioral aspects. Various experts have discussed the physiological and behavioral factors, physical activity, and drug therapy in weight-loss maintenance at a workshop convened by the National Institute of Diabetes and Digestive and Kidney Diseases.