Answer to Question #59841 in Biology for Paul Soho

Question

Explain why it is easier to gain weight than to lose it, and why most people who lose weight tend to regain it. Consider the effects of weight gain and lose on metabolism and the endocrine system and the effects of low calorie diets.

Answer 1

People view a “diet” as a short-term solution and don’t really change their behaviours.
Human bodies have appetite- and weight-regulating hormonal mechanisms that try to maintain homeostasis (aka keep things the same) over the long haul. When we consistently take in less energy (in the form of food) than we expend through basal metabolism and activity (as in a diet or famine), our bodies respond by making us hungrier.
Human organisms remain in homeostasis – a state of balance without sufficient changes. If people try to change things, their bodies will respond with compensation mechanisms, such as revving up appetite hormones.
Two important hormones that shape our appetite and hunger signals are leptin and ghrelin. Let’s find out more about leptin, ghrelin, and weight loss.