Weight and Metabolism

Why is losing weight so hard and keeping it off nearly impossible? The answer lies in how our brain and gut are wired to protect fat mass, just like they protect red blood cells, bone, or muscle mass.

Every nutrient we consume has receptors in the gut that signal to the brain, telling it how to regulate energy production, storage, and use. When you go on a calorie-restricted diet, your body interprets this as a threat. In response, your brain revs up hunger, lowers energy expenditure, and tries to restore the fat mass.
A landmark study in the New England Journal of Medicine showed that even weeks after weight loss, hunger hormones remained elevated and the drive to eat stayed high. This explains why most people regain weight after dieting. The body's biology pushes them back to their set point, the fat mass the body wants to defend.


The bottom line: calorie restriction alone rarely works long term because the body fights back. The real challenge isn't just losing weight, it's regulating the biology of energy balance so the body no longer fights to restore fat. Next episode: yo-yo dieting and the biology of weight cycling.

🌐 Learn more at weightandmetabolism.com

What is Weight and Metabolism?

Dr. Deepti Sharma is a triple board-certified physician in Family Medicine, Obesity, and Lifestyle Medicine. She is also a certified menopause practitioner by The Menopause Society (previously NAMS) and a certified life coach. For over a decade, her clinical practice has focused on guiding individuals towards optimal health through evidence-based strategies.
She recognizes the unique challenges many individuals face in understanding their metabolism and managing their weight. This podcast is dedicated to addressing those specific nuances and providing clarity amidst widespread misinformation.
Each episode will delve into the science behind effective weight management and metabolic health exploring the critical roles of nutrition, physical activity, sleep, and mental well-being.

Please remember that while she is a doctor, she is not your doctor. This podcast is meant for educational and informational purposes only, not medical advice. Please consult your physician for your specific questions and needs.

Presented by Dr Deepti Sharma, MD
Learn more at www.weightandmetabolism.com