Dieters find it difficult to stay slim in the long run because of a biological urge to eat, say scientists. A restrictive diet can boost the appetite and slow down the metabolism, increasing the likelihood of weight regain, researchers found. A team from the University of Melbourne launched the study to try and understand the phenomenon which is a common problem for slimmers.
The year-long study assessed 34 overweight participants who completed an intense 10-week diet programme, losing 10 percent of their body weight. Despite counselling and written advice on how to sustain their new weights, they gained an average of 12lbs back over the following year. Professor Joseph Proietto said: “People who regain weight should not be harsh on themselves, as eating is our most basic instinct.” Key findings came from a comparison of participant’s hormone levels before and after the weight-loss programme.
Results revealed that six of the nine hormones that influence appetite were still out of kilter in the dieters, resulting in increased hunger. Dieters rated themselves as feeling hungrier after meals at the one-year mark, compared to ratings before the diet programme began. MAIL
