What role does it play in eating disorders?
Eating disorders are a very heterogeneous group of diseases, the weight can be either normal, decreased or increased in eating disorders. Eating disorders that are associated with too little weight, such as anorexia nervosa (anorexia), could be triggered according to the setpoint theory by a too low target weight. However, it would not be correct to justify anorexia by a genetically predetermined weight.
Anorexia is a mental illness that can be caused by many factors. Eating disorders that lead to pathological overweight (obesity) would be explained by the setpoint theory with a shift of the target weight to higher ranges. A shift of this target weight upwards is assumed in a modified version of the setpoint theory. A permanent, excessive energy intake shifts this target weight into areas of overweight. However, the target weight cannot be shifted downwards by weight loss, so that the weight will always settle in the high range even after weight loss.
What does the Set Point theory mean for losing weight?
In the Set Point theory, losing weight is considered a temporary reduction in body weight. It paints the pessimistic picture that weight loss below the genetically determined set point is virtually impossible. The set point theory denies permanently overweight people the ability to be permanently slim without returning to their original weight. However, weight loss is also possible within the framework of the theory. However, only if you have been excessively energized for a certain time and your weight is above the set point.According to the theory, however, no great effort would have to be expended for this, since the body returns the weight to its target value through an increased basal metabolic rate.
Evaluation of the Set Point Theory
The set point theory should be viewed very critically. Body weight should rather be seen as a consequence of the different living conditions of people. The theory denies the individual the ability to deal with their weight and to change it if they feel unwell.
Certainly there are certain genetic factors that influence the basal metabolic rate of different people. However, there is no clear evidence that a person cannot keep their body weight down permanently by changing their habits, eating healthier food and doing more exercise. So don’t be discouraged by unproven theories; with a lot of hard work and discipline, weight loss can be achieved. The reason for an increase after successful weight loss is probably more likely to be a relapse into old habits than a genetically predetermined target weight.
