A lot in life is not fair, but this has to rank in the top 10: New research shows that the body is programmed to resist weight loss.

Just about every dieter has hit a plateau in their weight loss, where it seems they can't shed pounds no matter what they do. Weight management consultants recommend longer exercise times, higher intensity or cross training to fight it.

But Queensland University of Technology researcher Neil King has found this plateau can remain firmly in place for a prolonged period even when you continue to exercise or diet, according to an article on ninemsn.com.

Dr King believed the body struck a plateau because it was designed to cope with famine, "not the current obesogenic environment which enforces inactivity and a plentiful food supply".

King didn't offer up any solutions, so we are just left to work through plateaus the old-fashioned way. Good luck!

-- Amanda Barrett, amNY.com