INFOGRAPHIC

The Reason You May Struggle to Keep Weight Off

By Amanda Doyle
Reviewed by Claudia Levi, R.N.
February 13, 2025
Did You Know? The cycle of losing and regaining weight may be due to cell memory. Researchers have found that even after losing weight, fat cells in the body can “remember” and return to their previous state more easily. Source: Hinte L.C., et al. Adipose tissue retains an epigenetic memory of obesity after weight loss. (2024) Nature.

You’re far from alone if you’ve ever lost weight only to gain it back. There’s evidence that this cycle of weight loss and regain is common, and keeping extra weight off is difficult by nature.

It turns out that, after shedding weight, the fat cells in your body can remember and return to their previous state. This makes it easier to gain pounds back, some research suggests.

If you’re struggling to maintain weight loss, know that that’s common. You may need some extra support and that’s okay. Loop in your doctor and other professionals such as a registered dietitian or certified personal trainer who can help develop a plan that will work for you, for good.