Physiology of the Weight-Reduced State and Its Impact on Weight Regain

Obesity is a chronic disease characterized by long duration, slow progression, and periods of remission and relapses. Despite the development of effective medical and surgical interventions and millions of people conducting tremendous personal efforts to manage their weight every year, recidivism remains a significant barrier to attaining long-term weight maintenance. This review aimed to explain the underlying physiology of the weight-reduced state including changes in energy balance, adipose tissue, genetic, environmental, and behavioral factors that may predispose individuals to weight regain following weight loss.