Behaviours of successful weight loss maintainers

Abstract

Objective: The aim of this exploratory study was to determine if there were any significant differences in the behaviours of weight loss maintainers and weight loss re-gainers within a local population in the North West of England. The behaviours of the National Weight Control Registry were examined. Method: Thirty eight patients, 26 female and 12 male, with an average age of 55 years, who had been attending a weight management service for at least one year, agreed to participate in this study. Participants attended a 30 minute interview with a dietitian where they were asked questions regarding their diet, activity levels and television viewing. Based on their current weight, participants were assigned to either the weight loss maintainer group or weight loss re-gainer group. Results: Of the 38 participants, 21 were weight loss maintainers with 17 being weight loss re-gainers. Independent t-test and Mann Whitney U tests were conducted. No significant differences were found between the two groups in relation to the behaviours being examined or in baseline characteristics. There was a difference in the frequency of monitoring food intake with 57% of weight loss maintainers monitoring their food intake on a daily basis whereas 53% of weight loss re-gainers reported that they never monitored their food intake. Weight loss maintainers commented that the most important factor in maintaining their weight loss was portion control. Conclusion: There were no significant differences found in the behaviours of weight loss maintainers and weight loss re-gainers in this study population. Portion control and regular monitoring of food intake were reported as the most beneficial behaviours for long term weight maintenance.