Physiology of the Weight Reduced State: From Mechanisms to Clinical Application

Physiology of the Weight Reduced State: From Mechanisms to Clinical Application is organized by The Obesity Society (TOS).

Release Date: January 4, 2023
Expiration Date: December 31, 2025

Description:
Long-term weight loss maintenance is seldom achieved by individuals with obesity owing to numerous biological adaptations occurring in the post-weight loss setting, including neuroendocrine-mediated changes in appetite/satiety and reduction of energy expenditure. Following weight loss, peripheral and central mechanisms respond in a way similar to starvation by conveying a sense that energy reserves have dwindled, activating a strong counter-response to increase caloric intake. Moreover, the metabolic rate often drops, further compounding the propensity for weight rebound. Evidence suggests these counter-regulatory adaptations may be permanent. Although research is ongoing in this area, early clues have provided valuable insight into clinical management strategies to help patients avoid weight regain. This course will review the current state of knowledge regarding mechanisms of weight regain, identify avenues of further investigation, as well as provide evidence-based clinical strategies to enhance long-term weight loss maintenance in patients with obesity.

Learning Objectives:

• Review the physiological mechanisms that oppose weight loss maintenance.
• Identify important pathways in the gut-brain axis involved in promoting weight regain.
• Describe the changes in energy expenditure in the post weight loss setting.
• Implement clinical treatment recommendations to help patients maintain weight loss over the long-term.