Energy balance

Metabolic adaptation (reduced energy expenditure beyond that predicted by body composition changes) occurs during active weight loss but typically normalizes after body weight stabilizes, although it may persist long-term in specific contexts such as extreme caloric restriction.

When you lose weight, your body burns fewer calories, but this is largely because you weigh less and have less metabolically active tissue. While your metabolism may stay lower than it was at your starting weight for a while, it often normalizes once your weight stabilizes. Don't assume long-term failure is inevitable; focus on maintaining your new weight, as the metabolic penalty is often overstated and may resolve over time.