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Updated: Jul 18, 2025

Control of Eating Behavior Using a Novel Feedback System
Published on: May 8, 2018
Differential mechanisms affecting weight loss and weight loss maintenance
Michael Rosenbaum1, Gary Foster2
1Columbia University Irving Medical Center, Departments of Pediatrics and Medicine, Division of Molecular Genetics and the Irving Center for Clinical and Translational Research (MR), New York, NY, USA. mr475@cumc.columbia.edu.
Achieving sustained weight loss is challenging, as the body actively works to regain lost weight. Interventions must address distinct phases: initial weight loss and long-term maintenance.
Area of Science:
- Obesity research
- Metabolic regulation
- Behavioral science
Background:
- Most weight loss interventions result in temporary loss followed by regain.
- Sustaining significant weight loss (≥10%) is difficult, achieved by only ~15% of individuals.
- The continuous or dichotomous nature of weight loss success factors (genetics, environment) is unclear.
Purpose of the Study:
- To compare weight loss and maintenance interactions with homeostatic systems.
- To discuss implications for obesity research and treatment.
- To explore if weight loss and maintenance are physiologically and psychologically distinct.
Main Methods:
- Comparative analysis of weight loss and maintenance.
- Examination of genetic, behavioral, physiological, and environmental factors.
- Review of existing data on homeostatic systems.
Main Results:
- Weight loss and maintenance appear physiologically and psychologically distinct.
- Individuals may need different strategies for short-term energy balance during loss versus long-term balance after loss.
- Homeostatic systems play a critical role in both phases.
Conclusions:
- Weight loss and maintenance require different intervention approaches.
- Future obesity research and treatments should consider these distinct phases.
- Personalized strategies may be needed for successful long-term weight management.
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