The association between rate of initial weight loss and long-term success in obesity treatment: does slow and steady win the race?

ABSTRACT:

Background

Controversy exists regarding the optimal rate of weight loss for long-term weight management success.

Purpose

This study examined whether gradual initial weight loss was associated with greater long-term weight reduction than rapid initial loss.

Methods

Groups were drawn from participants in the TOURS trial, which included a sample of middle-aged (mean = 59.3 years) obese women (mean BMI = 36.8) who received a 6-month lifestyle intervention followed by a 1-year extended care program. Participants were encouraged to reduce caloric intake to achieve weight losses of 0.45 kg/week. Groups were categorized as "FAST" (> or =0.68 kg/week, n = 69), "MODERATE" (> or =0.23 and <0.68 kg/week, n = 104), and "SLOW" (<0.23 kg/week, n = 89) based on rate of weight loss du

SUBMITTER: Nackers LM 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC3780395 | biostudies-literature | 2010 Sep

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature