• Hormonal Imbalance: People with severe obesity often have hormonal imbalances, such as high levels of leptin (hormone responsible for feeling full) resistance, leading to constant hunger.
• Slow Metabolism: Severe obesity can significantly slow down metabolism, making it harder to burn calories even with intense exercise.

• Body’s Weight Set Point: The body has a natural weight “set point” that it tries to maintain. In severe obesity, this set point is high, and the body fights to stay at that weight by increasing hunger and decreasing energy expenditure.

• Emotional Eating: Stress, anxiety, or depression can trigger emotional eating, making it challenging to stick to a diet plan.
• Behavioral Patterns: Long-term habits and a history of failed attempts can lead to discouragement and reduced motivation.

• Temporary Weight Loss: Diet and exercise may result in short-term weight loss, but studies show that most people regain the weight within a few years.
• Plateau Effect: After an initial loss, weight plateaus as the body adjusts to the new routine, causing frustration and eventual discontinuation.

• Bariatric Surgery & Medical Therapies: In severe obesity, medical interventions such as bariatric surgery or gastric balloon therapy are often more effective. They not only aid in significant weight loss but also help in maintaining it by altering the body’s hormonal response.
• Multidisciplinary Approach: A combination of medical treatment, nutritional guidance, psychological support, and physical activity is crucial for sustainable weight loss.

While diet and exercise are essential components of a healthy lifestyle, they are often insufficient for severe obesity due to complex biological, psychological, and metabolic factors. Medical interventions and a comprehensive weight loss strategy are often needed for long-term success.