Insulin resistance and lower insulin sensitivity: significant contributors to weight regain in non-menopausal Iranian women

Weight regain after weight loss due to dietary interventions is a complex and prevalent issue in weight management. Insulin resistance plays a potentially significant role in this issue. In this cross-sectional study, we investigated the association between serum insulin levels, insulin resistance, and fasting blood sugar (FBS) with weight regain among non-menopausal Iranian women. Our analysis on 146 patients who have passed one-year dietary treatment, revealed significant differences between the weight regain and weight maintenance groups. Mean insulin concentration (p = 0.02), FBS (p < 0.001), and insulin resistance (p = 0.01), were significantly higher in the weight regain group, however, insulin sensitivity was lower (p < 0.001). These findings suggest a positive correlation between elevated insulin levels, FBS, and insulin resistance, with body mass index one-year post-intervention. This study underscores the potential role of these metabolic factors in weight regain, providing valuable insights for weight management strategies.