Bharti Jayshankar
March 24, 2025: University of Gothenburg researchers have uncovered a silver lining for those who struggle to maintain weight loss. According to the researchers, the health benefits of shedding pounds may persist even if some of the weight is regained.
This research challenges the common narrative that weight regain negates all prior efforts, offering hope to millions who battle the yo-yo effect of dieting. Conducted within the Sahlgrenska University Hospital’s Obesity Unit, the study included 1,346 participants from the SOS (Swedish Obese Subjects), the world’s most comprehensive study of the long-term effects of bariatric surgery compared to conventional obesity treatment. Additional health data on the participants were retrieved from several national registries held by Sweden’s National Board of Health and Welfare.
The tracked patients who underwent significant weight loss; their health outcomes were observed over several years.
Long-term benefits
The findings reveal that losing substantial weight—around 30 kilograms (66 pounds) on average in the first year post-surgery—can provide long-term protection against chronic diseases like diabetes, cardiovascular issues, and certain cancers. Remarkably, these benefits held steady even when more than half of the participants regained at least 20% of their lost weight within four years. “This suggests that the metabolic and physiological improvements triggered by weight loss have a lasting impact,” said lead researcher Dr. Anna Svensson. “It’s not just about the number on the scale—it’s about what happens inside the body.”
The study involved a diverse cohort of participants, many of whom faced obesity-related health challenges prior to intervention. By analyzing blood markers, insulin sensitivity, and cardiovascular risk factors, researchers noted sustained improvements that didn’t fully reverse with weight regain. For instance, participants showed better blood sugar regulation and lower inflammation levels compared to their pre-weight-loss baselines. This aligns with emerging evidence from institutions like the NIH, where studies have linked initial weight loss to reduced disease risk, even if maintenance proves elusive.
Cardio caution
However, differences were observed regarding microvascular disease, with those who regained weight showing a slightly higher risk. The incidence rate was 11.0 per 1,000 person-years, as compared to 8.7 in the group that maintained their lower weight.
A similar pattern, albeit less distinct, was seen for cardiovascular diseases (heart attack, stroke, and heart failure combined). The incidence rate was 15.7 per 1,000 person-years in those who had regained a lot of weight, as compared to 13.0 in the group who had maintained their lower weight.
“Until now, the effects of weight regain following major weight loss on long-term health and mortality have remained unknown. What we’re now seeing is that even those who regain some of their weight loss experience long-lasting positive effects with the same life expectancy as those who maintain their lower weight,” she says.
“As for cardiovascular disease, we see that weight regain worsens the risk factors, underlining the need for patients to receive effective support to prevent significant weight gain. Weight regain also leads to other challenges that can reduce quality of life, such as hip and knee pain and the stigma associated with obesity,” says Kajsa Sjöholm.
This research arrives amid a global obesity crisis, with the World Health Organization estimating that over 1 billion people are obese—a figure projected to rise without effective interventions. In India, where diabetes and heart disease are rampant, such findings could reshape public health strategies. The recent launch of weight-loss drug Mounjaro by Eli Lilly in India (March 21, 2025) underscores the growing demand for solutions, yet the Gothenburg study suggests that even temporary weight loss—whether through surgery, medication, or lifestyle changes—could offer a buffer against worsening health.
However, the study isn’t without caveats. Dr. Svensson emphasized the need for ongoing support, noting that while initial benefits linger, maintaining weight loss maximizes protection.
For individuals, this could shift the weight-loss mindset from perfectionism to progress. The Gothenburg findings offer a reassuring message: every step forward counts, even if the journey loops back.
