Published: 2026-01-08
Updated: 2026-01-08
Rector Advisor, Vice Dean, and Faculty Member - Istanbul Kent University, Faculty of Pharmacy, Departmant of Pharmocology
Visiting Researcher&Lecturer - University College London, Mechanical Engineering and Faculty of Medicine, UK
Visiting Lecturer - University of Aveiro, Faculty of Biomedical Engineering, Portugal
Visiting Researcher&Lecturer - University College London, Mechanical Engineering and Faculty of Medicine, UK
Visiting Lecturer - University of Aveiro, Faculty of Biomedical Engineering, Portugal
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"Since weight management is influenced by many biological factors such as hormonal balances, metabolic rate, and genetic predisposition, evaluating this process as holistic health management rather than just a matter of willpower can help achieve more lasting results."
Why is weight loss more than just a matter of "willpower"?
The general consensus in society is that weight loss is entirely a matter of personal discipline and willpower. However, medical professionals and dieticians emphasize that the picture is much more complex. To understand why the fight against obesity is not a level playing field for everyone, a closer look at biological and environmental factors is necessary.
The Invisible Influence of Genetics
Weight control, contrary to popular belief, is a process managed by the brain, not the stomach. Research shows that genes, particularly MC4R, directly influence satiety and hunger signals.
- Hunger Signals: Individuals with certain genetic variations feel less full after meals and experience hunger more frequently.
- Metabolism Rate: Genes also determine how quickly the body burns energy and its tendency to store fat.
"Point of Gravity" Theory and Thermostat Effect
The body has a biological "set point" weight that it tries to maintain. Just as a thermostat keeps room temperature constant, the body activates defense mechanisms when it falls below this set point:
- Resistance: When weight is lost through harsh diets, the brain perceives this as a "famine" signal.
- Response: Metabolism slows down and the signals of leptin, the hunger hormone, are disrupted. This creates a strong urge to eat that is difficult to control, regardless of the person's willpower.
"Obesogenic" Environmental Factor
According to experts, the main reason for the increase in obesity today is not a weakening of willpower, but changing living conditions. In this new order, called an "obesogenic environment," the following factors stand out:
- Easy access to highly processed and cheap foods.
- Aggressive food marketing and increasing portion sizes.
- Decreased opportunities for physical activity due to urbanization, chronic stress, and sleep disorders.
Is Free Will Completely Disabled?
While the concept of willpower isn't entirely disregarded, the real question is how much biological barriers challenge that willpower. Experts view willpower not as a fixed force, but as a variable resource influenced by mood, fatigue, and environmental stimuli.
In conclusion: Success in the fight against obesity isn't simply about saying "eat less"; it's about a compassionate and scientifically based support system that acknowledges biological realities. Viewing weight management as a medical process rather than a moral judgment is considered key to long-term success.
Assoc. Prof. Muhammet Emin Çam
Rector Advisor, Vice Dean, and Faculty Member - Istanbul Kent University, Faculty of Pharmacy, Departmant of Pharmocology
Visiting Researcher&Lecturer - University College London, Mechanical Engineering and Faculty of Medicine, UK
Visiting Lecturer - University of Aveiro, Faculty of Biomedical Engineering, Portugal
Visiting Researcher&Lecturer - University College London, Mechanical Engineering and Faculty of Medicine, UK
Visiting Lecturer - University of Aveiro, Faculty of Biomedical Engineering, Portugal
