Reverse dieting gradually increases calories after a long deficit to help restore energy and reduce rapid rebound weight gain. The idea is to nudge metabolism and hunger hormones back toward baseline while minimizing fat regain. Progress is slow — often 50–100 kcal per week. Evidence is mixed; the main proven benefit is psychological and adherence support after a hard cut, not a guaranteed metabolic "reset."
Key facts:
- Gradual calorie increase post-diet
- ~50–100 kcal/week steps
- Aims to limit rebound
- Benefits mostly adherence