Long-term Weight Loss Maintenance

ABSTRACT

It is not easy to maintain long-term weight loss even though it is the ultimate goal of obesity management. The Look AHEAD study in which 50% of participants in the intervention arm maintained a weight loss at least 5% below their initial weight after 8 years of intensive lifestyle intervention confirms a crucial role of continuous and constant application of lifestyle changes. Alteration of appetite-related hormones, energy homeostasis, nutrient metabolism, and subjective appetite are involved in biological pathways responsible for balance between energy utilization and storage following weight loss. Previous studies have shown that some appetite-related hormones and metabolites are potential predictors of weight-regain after weight loss, and specific diet pattern and physical activity could oppose weight loss regain.