What Is Set Point Theory in Weight Management?

Set point theory maintains that the body wants to be at a certain weight.

Nutritionists William Bennett and Joel Gurin set forth set point theory to explain why people have a hard time losing weight, even with proper dieting, according to Massachusetts Institute of Technology.

Identification

Set point theory states that the body will eventually stop losing weight with dieting because the body is genetically disposed to want to be at a certain weight, according to OBGYN.net.

Function

"Lifetime Physical Fitness and Wellness: A Personalized Program" likens set point theory to a thermostat. The body senses weight loss and increases hunger and fat retention, or the opposite when weight gain occurs.

Tip

People should not overcome their set point by starving themselves. You can safely reduce caloric intake to 1,200 to 1,500 calories as long as you consume the daily requirement for nutrients, according to "Lifetime Physical Fitness and Wellness." Also, exercise can reduce stored fat.

References

• Massachusetts Institute of Technology: Set-Point Theory
• OBGYN.net: The Dreaded Weight Loss Plateau
• "Lifetime Physical Fitness and Wellness: A Personalized Program"; Wener W. K. Hoeger, Sharon A. Hoeger; 2006