What is our Set Point? (June 2011)

Our set point seems to come up in discussion with clients and I thought this month’s topic would discuss how it works with also clarifying any misconceptions.

Many bodily functions are automatically regulated to maintain a genetically defined balance for optimal functioning and wellbeing. We cannot control them. They operate by a genetic gauge, regulator or thermostat which turns the mechanism on or off to maintain the required functioning. This is called our “set point”.

There are some automatically regulated body functions such as heart rate, breathing, blood cell count, body fluid contents, body temperature, hormone regulation, reproductive cycles, body fat deposition and blood glucose levels. They are not limited to these.

Set point is the body’s weight which is regulated by an automatic regulator which genetically determines the amount of body fat that the body needs to function optimally. This automatic regulator of body fat determines the “set point” weight range. The body will actively strive to achieve your genetically determined “set point” weight in order to provide the body with adequate body fat and maintain optimal functioning. Your actions, thoughts and behaviors are ultimately connected to this automatically regulated need to maintain this weight range. The body, without your consent or permission will strive to maintain the genetically required amount of body fat and weight by altering metabolism, intensity of hunger and food thoughts.

Truths about Set Point, Weight & Genetics:

• The amount and distribution of body fat is genetically predetermined (regulated).
• Some people are genetically predisposed to gaining weight easier than others.
• The body does not distinguish between weight loss from dieting and starvation and moves to sustain life by increasing fat stores. Chronic dieting tends to push the set point upward.
• When your weight goes below the lower end of the range there is a substantial increase in the time spent thinking about food, weight and hunger.
• Sustained periods of eating beyond physiological needs along with prolonged weight gain will raise the set point.
• Set point regulation can be effected by drugs, dietary changes, exercise and age.
• Weight gains and losses are not direct indications of body fat storage.

Truths about the Body’s Regulatory Functioning Ranges:

• There is a range in which the body functions optimally.
• We are all unique and the optimal ranges for our bodily functions are unique to us. Normal is a relative term.
• The actual point or number may fluctuate within the rage, as a result of many factors, (stress, illness, pregnancy, drugs, medication, environment, depression), but the range remains constant over long periods of the life cycle.
• The degree of fluctuation varies from individual to individual.
• The size of the range varies from individual to individual.

Achieving relaxed eating and body wellness requires that we:

1. Accept that the body fights to maintain a certain percentage of body fat.
2. Accept that body fat is essential to produce regular menstrual periods, immune function and mineral deposition.
3. Accept our family weight history and genetic predisposition and potential.
4. Acknowledge the amount of total conscious time spent thinking food, weight, hunger and the resulting burden.
5. Accept the connection between our physiological weight and our food-weight related behaviors.
6. Accept our genetically determined physiological weight.