Set point theory Set point theory of body weight regulation introduces the concept of a "set point" weight, which is the biologically preferred body weight unique to each individual. When weight is maintained below this set point, the body is in a state of
caloric deficit and compensates by increasing energy intake or decreasing
energy expenditure as a mechanism for regulating weight. Heightened sensitivity to environmental food
stimuli is associated with eating driven by external cues rather than internal signals of
hunger or
satiety, a behaviour characteristic of both obesity and counterregulatory eating.
Restraint theory Despite its potential biological roots, counterregulatory eating in restrained eaters is largely exacerbated by
cognitive factors. According to restraint theory, individuals who chronically restrict food intake are more susceptible to counterregulatory eating when their
self-control is disrupted, which is most commonly caused by the perception that a dietary rule has been broken. reflecting an all-or-nothing approach to self-control. As long as dieters believe they are maintaining control, they tend to eat conservatively. However, when they perceive a loss of control over their diets, they experience a
cognitive shift leading to counterregulatory eating, including episodes of
overeating or even
binge eating. The what-the-hell effect in restrained eaters has been demonstrated in multiple experimental studies using the taste-test paradigm, a research method where participants consume a preload, after which they complete a taste-rating task of another food item, the intake of which is, often covertly, measured. In one study, participants who scored high on dietary restraint consumed significantly more ice cream after being given a milkshake labelled as "high
calorie", compared to those given the same milkshake labelled as "low calorie", or no milkshake at all. This pattern was not observed in unrestrained participants, suggesting that the perception of dietary failure, rather than actual caloric needs, triggered the loss of control over food intake in restrained eaters. One explanation is that because restrained eaters are assumed to be below their set point weight, they may be especially drawn to sweet or highly palatable foods. The psychosomatic theory proposes that such "
emotional eating" occurs in response to emotional arousal rather than physical hunger, which is especially frequent in individuals with diminished
interoceptive awareness. In fact, eating more in response to stress has been shown to intensify emotional distress and induce feelings of guilt. Therefore, while emotional eating is often considered a coping mechanism, it may not effectively regulate negative emotions. == Treatment ==