psychology-health

Set-point theory does not account for weight gain, according to its basis that people get hungry when a biological need prompts them to eat. However settling-point theory states that a person may continue to gain weight incrementally, as intermittent periods of homeostasis are achieved.The plateau effect experienced by most people when they lose weight can also happen when people gain a few extra pounds (Pinel, 2007). This is bthe body’s way of slowing down the process in one direction or the other, until its tendons can stretch, a gait can be altered, or a tolerance to higher blood pressure is accepted. By allowing for such adjustments, the body can expect to continue without injury.Settling point theory suggests that body weight will progress as it is directed, unless a variable is introduced which will inhibit that progression. If one chose to gain 10 pounds, but suddenly took up jogging, weight loss would be imminent, and the settling-point theory would again be validated.Reference

Pinel, J. P. J. (2007). Basics of biopsychology. Boston, MA: Allyn and Bacon.

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