For years, many people have believed that repeatedly losing and regaining weight is harmful to the body. However, recent scientific research is now challenging those long-held fears about “yo-yo dieting,” also known as weight cycling.
In a review published in The Lancet Diabetes & Endocrinology, professors Faidon Magkos and Norbert Stefan analyzed decades of human and animal studies. They found little evidence that weight cycling damages metabolism, permanently reduces muscle mass, or directly increases disease risk. Instead, they concluded that many health problems previously attributed to weight cycling are more closely linked to aging and how long a person remains consistently overweight.
The findings come at a time when the use of GLP-1 weight-loss medications is rising globally, with many patients regaining weight after stopping treatment. The researchers say this fluctuation should not be viewed as inherently harmful.
They emphasize that experiencing even a brief period of weight loss can provide meaningful benefits for metabolic health and overall well-being. According to the review, avoiding weight loss altogether due to fear of regaining weight may pose a greater health risk than attempting it and experiencing weight cycling.
J.K. Park Senior Reporter junior/1781579092/1613368089
1. What long-held dieting fear is recent research challenging?
2. In which scientific journal was the review published?
3. Which professors analyzed decades of human studies together?
4. What specific type of weight-loss medication is rising?
1. Do you think repeatedly losing weight is harmful?
2. Why is maintaining good metabolic health very important?
3. Does aging change how our body process food?
4. Should people worry less about temporary weight fluctuations?
For years, many people have believed that repeatedly losing and regaining weight is harmful to the body. However, recent scientific research is now challenging those long-held fears about “yo-yo dieting,” also known as weight cycling.
