The Role of Continuous Support in Maintaining Weight Loss Post-Diet

Maintaining weight loss after a dieting program can be challenging, but recent research indicates that ongoing support plays a crucial role in long-term success. A study led by Kathryn M. Ross, Ph.D., from Advocate Aurora Research Institute and Wake Forest University School of Medicine, examined how different support approaches impact weight maintenance over time. The study involved 255 adults with obesity who had lost at least 5% of their initial weight during a 16-week program. All participants received monthly phone calls from health coaches, but they were divided into two groups: one received support on a fixed monthly schedule, and the other received support triggered by an algorithm that identified high risk of weight regain.

After 20 months, both groups successfully maintained an average of 8% weight loss from their starting weight, with approximately 60% of participants sustaining at least a 5% weight loss. Interestingly, offering extra support only when individuals were at greater risk of regaining weight did not provide additional benefits compared to standard monthly calls.

The study suggests that regular, ongoing contact is beneficial for long-term weight management. It highlights the importance of a chronic disease management approach to obesity, similar to how other long-term health conditions are addressed. Participants used smartphone apps and digital scales to monitor their progress, with trained health coaches providing support throughout.

While the personalized, adaptive support schedule did not outperform the regular monthly calls, the research underscores that consistent support can significantly help individuals maintain weight loss. The team is exploring ways to improve predictive algorithms for weight regain, aiming to personalize support better in future studies.

This research emphasizes that long-term engagement and support are essential components of effective obesity management and encourages health programs to incorporate sustained support systems for individuals overcoming obesity.

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