Adherence to Diet Advice Accelerates Weight Loss After 25 Days

Abstract

Objective: To determine the relationship between the number of days of adherence to weight loss advice and actual weight loss. Methods: Weight loss tips were randomly assigned within broad categories to participants. Number of days of adherence and weight loss were then recorded. Tips were distributed through a popular weight loss related website. Participants were visitors to this website. The sample consists primarily of adult females, with a total of 180 participants. After answering some questions about their goals, individuals were assigned three tips to healthier eating habits. Follow-up surveys were administered at the end of each month thereafter. Results: Weight loss per day of adherence increases significantly after the 25th day of adherence. A day of adherence after the 25th day is more than 10 times more effective, resulting in nearly 0.5 pounds of weight loss as opposed to 0.04 pounds per day prior to the 25th day. Conclusion: Our results demonstrate the importance of long-lasting adherence in achieving weight loss. Given the nature of the weight loss tips involved, our results suggest that ease of adherence may be one of the most important factors in administering health advice to those wishing to lose weight.