"You could say the typical human fat cell is like Ebenezer Scrooge. It is very interested in increasing supply and very reluctant to let any go. If you try to demand or steal from Scrooge, it makes him even worse. This is exactly how your adipocytes respond when you start an intensive diet and exercise program. The point of the Dickensonian tale is useful for us. Scrooge can be persuaded to want to get along with everyone and share the wealth. The same can be done with fat cells."