Accordion effect: understanding what it is, what causes it and how to avoid it

Accordion effect: understanding what it is, what causes it and how to avoid it


The endocrinologist explains that adopting a healthy routine can help fight the problem

The accordion effect is a cyclical phenomenon of weight. It is mainly caused by very rapid weight loss (through the manipulation of drugs, strenuous physical activity and very restrictive or “miraculous” diets), followed by the regaining of the lost pounds.





Accordion effect: understanding what it is, what causes it and how to avoid it

This happens because the body is programmed to defend us from the lack of food. When we drastically change our eating routine, the body understands that we run the risk of starvation (a condition of extreme weakness) and protects us by activating mechanisms that easily store energy.

The accordion effect affects women the most

Age and gender are factors that can directly influence the accordion effect. “Women have more Fat and less muscle mass. Therefore, the effect is more noticeable in them, as they have a harder time losing weight, “explains endocrinologist Ana Prigioni Soggia.

Additionally, women tend to have a lower basal metabolic rate, which is the total number of calories the body uses to keep us alive. “The BMR (Basal Metabolic Rate) varies according to age, race, sex, hormone levels and genetic components and is not a static value, it also affects food,” adds the doctor.




Physical activity helps increase metabolism and burn fat.

muscle atrophy

A low metabolic rate can cause the plateau effect – when, even while dieting or taking medication, a person stops lose weight. One of the ways to elevate it is to exercise regularly. However, when weight loss is not related to a balanced diet and regular physical activity, the person tends to lose muscle mass rather than fat, which can leave the skin sagging.

So, ideally, there is a balance between aerobic activities that burn fat, such as running, walking, and swimming, and endurance activities, such as weight training, which increase muscle tone and rate. metabolic.

How to avoid the accordion effect

To lose weight and keep it off, it is necessary to change behavior, which does not only mean changing menus, but investing sleep quality, have a healthy routine and reduce stress and anxiety levels. “We need to change the person’s relationship with food. Currently eating is linked to pleasure, but food cannot be the only source of satisfaction”, adds Ana Priseno soggia.

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Source: Terra

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