Set Point Theory

The theory of Set Point espouses that every person’s body weight and fat percentage is set by an internal control system unique to the individual. Set Point Theory was developed by William Bennett and Joel Gurin in 1982 to explain why dieting in not successful in the long term. Bennett and Gurin co-authored a book on set-point, titled The Dieter’s Dilemma, wherein is the explanation of how the human body is genetically wire to maintain the person’s body weight and fat percentage. According to this theory, it is very difficult to change one’s set point, although there are a few ways (e.g., regular aerobic exercise) to make moderate reductions in the index.