It is a common belief that weight loss achieved at a slow rate is better preserved than if the weight is lost more rapidly. However, the literature shows that initial weight loss is positively, not negatively, related to long-term weight maintenance. There is evidence from randomised intervention trials to support that a greater initial weight loss induced without changes in lifestyle (e.g. liquid formula diets or anorectic drugs) improves long-term weight maintenance, providing it is followed by a 1-2 years integrated weight maintenance programme consisting of lifestyle interventions involving dietary change, nutritional education, behaviour therapy and increased physical activity. In conclusion, we find evidence to suggest that a greater initial weight loss as the first step of a weight management programme may result in improved sustained weight maintenance. © 2000 The International Association for the Study of Obesity.
CITATION STYLE
Astrup, A., & Rössner, S. (2000). Lessons from obesity management programmes: Greater initial weight loss improves long-term maintenance. Obesity Reviews, 1(1), 17–19. https://doi.org/10.1046/j.1467-789x.2000.00004.x
Mendeley helps you to discover research relevant for your work.