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Derek Batman

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August 9, 2025

Why Your Weight Gain Probably Isn’t From a Slow Metabolism

Most people in Newark, DE blame a slow metabolism for weight gain. But research shows metabolism stays steady for decades. The real driver is appetite. Genetics, food environment, and daily habits matter far more. Here’s what’s really going on and how you can take control.

Everyone Points at Metabolism. Few Talk About This.

Most people think the scale creeps up because their metabolism has slowed down.

But research shows metabolism stays surprisingly steady through most of adulthood. It only drops about 0.7% per year after age 20 and stays stable until your 60s.

The Real Driver: Appetite

It’s not just about willpower.

Satiety responsiveness is 63% heritable. Food-cue responsiveness is 75% heritable.

Some people are simply wired to feel hungrier and, on average, eat 125–280 more calories per day without realizing it.

Today’s Food Environment Makes It Worse

Now put that wiring into today’s food environment.
Fast food everywhere.
Ultra-processed snacks in every aisle.
Marketing built to hijack cravings.

That is how slow, steady weight gain happens.

Your Metabolism Isn’t Broken

You are fighting a hunger drive in a world that keeps the buffet open 24/7.

The fix is building habits and an environment that work with your biology:

  • Lean proteins
  • High-volume whole foods
  • Strength training
  • Guardrails around your trigger foods

You Can Still Win

The battlefield isn’t fair. But you can still win with the right support and enough self-awareness.

If you want help building habits and training that fit your biology, check out our Personal Training options.


Book a No Sweat Intro with a coach at Hardbat Athletics today and start building a plan that works for you.

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