Within one year, regain of a considerable amount of the weight lost by calorie restriction is a common phenomenon for up to 80% of individuals. This has been mainly attributed to psychosocial and behavioral influences. However, our recent findings point to a potential involvement of adipocytes in the risk for weight regain. During weight loss adipocytes build up resistance against releasing more fat, which is demonstrated by the differential expression of markers for cellular stress. This stress may be based on mechanical forces that arise between the shrinking cell and the surrounding rigid basal lamina. For adipocytes the best way to alleviate this stress is by returning to their original volume, which can be achieved by re-storage of triglycerides. To ascertain a sufficient supply of glucose and fat for re-storage, adipocytes change their pattern of secreted adipokines altering the total body metabolism and promoting energy intake. As a consequence the host will regain weight. Further research is needed to prove this model. If the model receives further support, the existence of an adipocytes-based autonomous cause for weight regain may be taken as an excuse to abandon measures needed to maintain the reduced weight. Therefore, care must be taken in the presentation of this model to the public. On the other hand, the model will also provide novel ways for prevention of weight regain.
Adipobiology 2011; 3: 9-15.
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