Set Point Theory

Have you ever heard of Set Point Theory?

This is the theory that we have a 10-20 lb range in which our bodies are most comfortable and that they attempt to maintain. Several factors such as genetics, activity, medications, and disordered eating/eating disorders can influence a person’s set point range.

Dieting disrupts our set points because our bodies don’t want to go out of their set point range. This is why the common phrase “Eat Less, Move More” is lazy and counterproductive advice. Decreasing calories → decreased energy, and increased hunger (aka binging later on).

Our bodies are meant to be diverse. Everyone has a different range at which their body is most comfortable, and this is where Health at Every Size (HAES) comes into play. Because our set points are different, we aren’t supposed to all be the same size. We should celebrate these differences rather than shame them.

How do you know your set point? You’re likely within your body’s set point if you are:

• Eating intuitively and honoring hunger/fullness cues
  

• Moving daily in ways that are enjoyable for you
  

• Getting enough quality sleep
  

• Practicing proper stress management

Constantly thinking about food, eating past fullness/not recognizing hunger cues, or a cycle of restricting & binging are all signs that you are out of your bodies set point range.