The Claim
In obese adults, implementation of a protein-sparing modified fast (PSMF) or phase 3 weight reduction plan is associated with significant weight loss over 20 weeks, but no significant weight maintenance is observed, with weight gradually regained and all initial loss reversed by two years.
What the research says
Supports is higher
Support is ahead, but a single strong opposing study can change this.
These are independent scores, not a percentage. Higher-grade studies count more, so a single strong opposing study can outweigh several weaker ones.
Obese adults who follow a protein-sparing modified fast or phase 3 weight loss plan lose weight in the first 20 weeks, but regain all the lost weight by two years.
See the scientific wording
In obese adults, protein-sparing modified fast (PSMF) and phase 3 weight reduction plans are associated with significant short-term weight loss over 20 weeks, but no significant long-term weight maintenance is observed, with weight gradually regained and all significant loss reversed by two years.
When calorie intake drops sharply, the body slows down its energy use, lowers key hunger-suppressing hormones, and increases hunger signals. This makes the body burn fewer calories and crave more food, causing weight to return even after eating normally again.
What the research says
1 studyStudy: Short-Term and Long-Term Effects of Weight Reduction Programs Offered at the Guthrie Clinic
People who followed a high-protein, low-calorie diet or a phased weight loss plan lost weight quickly in the first few months, but they all gained it all back by two years — just like the claim says.
Score breakdown, mechanism chain, raw evidence, ideal studies needed & 1 supporting studies
Not medical advice. For informational purposes only. Always consult a qualified healthcare professional before making health decisions.