Abstract
Individuals successful at weight loss maintenance (WTLM) utilize similar behaviors but in varying amounts and combinations. Research identifying characteristics which predict WTLM success could be used to develop effective WTLM treatment programs. The purpose of this retrospective analysis was to determine behavioral (e.g., self monitoring of dietary intake) and biological factors (e.g., sex) which may influence WTLM success. Methods: In a previously conducted 12-month WTLM study, weight-reduced middle-aged and older men and women (n = 39) were assigned behavioral goals and asked to daily self-monitor body weight, fruit and vegetable intake, water consumption, and physical activity. This investigation utilized a crisp set qualitative comparative analysis (QCA) to characterize individuals’ weight changes and behaviors. Sex difference in clinically significant weight loss (WL) (≥5% WL) at 12 months was investigated, and growth curve models estimated interaction effects between sex and WTLM predictors. Results: QCA findings suggest patterns of weight change during the initial three months of WTLM treatment may dictate 12-month weight outcomes. No sex difference was found in clinically significant WL or in the interaction of sex and behaviors on weight change. Conclusions: WTLM treatments should provide more intensive support during transition from WL to WTLM, particularly during the first three months.
Highlights
Obesity and related diseases place a huge financial burden on the country, costing approximately 10% of total medical spending in 2008 [1]
The qualitative comparative analysis (QCA) for the full sample revealed four conditions considered necessary for successful weight loss maintenance (WTLM) overall: 1)
Sex differences in weight change or total Weight loss (WL) outcomes were not observed in the present analysis
Summary
Obesity and related diseases place a huge financial burden on the country, costing approximately 10% of total medical spending in 2008 [1]. Weight loss (WL) attempts, utilizing behavioral lifestyle methods, are largely successful [2]; maintaining WL is challenging for most people, and relapse is common [3] [4]. The majority of those successful at WL regain all lost weight within 3 - 5 years after treatment [5]-[7]. Changing lifestyle behaviors remains at the forefront of effective WTLM treatment strategies. Self-monitoring of body weight, physical activity, and fruit and vegetable consumption are effective WTLM behaviors [11]
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