Why Did the Biggest Loser Contestants Regain Their Weight?

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The results of a recent study published in Obesity that tracked the weights of The Biggest Loser participants when they finished their 30-week journey on the show and again six years later revealed some disheartening news.

Out of 14 participants, only one maintained weight loss while four are now heavier than when they started the show. Researchers found that the participants’ resting metabolic rate (RMR) – the amount of calories they burn at rest – decreased at the end of the show (which was expected), but it did not increase, even when they regained weight in the six-year follow-up period.

Just how much your metabolism slows and for how long is a question we do not have all the evidence for, but there are many other variables that promote weight maintenance, including diet, exercise, sleep, stress management and hormones.

Continuing with a program that includes clean eating, physical activity, quality sleep and supportive environments is a recipe for weight-loss success.