Energy balance
Metabolic adaptation (a lower-than-predicted resting metabolic rate after weight loss) significantly increases the time required to reach specific weight loss goals, independent of dietary adherence.
If you are strictly following a calorie deficit but your weight loss has stalled or slowed significantly, it may be due to metabolic adaptation (a drop in your resting metabolic rate). This is a biological defense mechanism, not a personal failure. Adjusting expectations regarding the timeline, rather than just increasing restriction, is necessary.
In premenopausal women with overweight, metabolic adaptation after a 16% weight loss increases the length of time necessary to achieve weight loss goals.
Why this rating
Randomized controlled trial components (JULIET) and rigorous measurement (DLW, 4CM), though limited to a specific demographic.
Source
Metabolic adaptation delays time to reach weight loss goals
Cátia Martins et al. · Obesity · 2022
DOI 10.1002/oby.23333
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