Introduction
Loss of excess weight can improve blood lipids,
insulin sensitivity, and blood pressure. However, data are scant on behavioral
strategies related to maintenance of weight loss. We examined dietary practices,
physical activity, and self-efficacy among adults self-reported to be successful
at maintaining weight loss.
Methods
Using the 2004 Styles survey, a mailed survey of U.S.
adults aged 18 years or older, we examined behaviors associated with weight loss
maintenance among people who reported trying to lose weight. We analyzed data on
number of daily fruit and vegetable servings, minutes per week of physical
activity, dining out behavior, and confidence in one’s ability to engage in
behavioral strategies. We conducted frequency and multivariable logistic
regression analyses.
Results
More men (35.5%) than women (27.7%) were classified as
successful weight loss maintainers. Compared with adults who reported eating at
a fast-food restaurant two or more times per week, adults who reported not
eating at fast-food restaurants were more successful at weight loss maintenance
(odds ratio, 1.62; 95% confidence interval, 1.09–2.42). Compared with adults who
consumed fewer than five fruit and vegetable servings per day and were
sedentary, adults who consumed fewer than five fruit and vegetable servings per
day and accrued 420 minutes or more per week of physical activity or consumed
five or more fruit and vegetable servings and accrued 150 minutes or more per
week of activity were more successful at weight loss maintenance.
Conclusion
The behavioral strategy of reducing consumption of fast
foods could assist people in keeping weight off. The combined approach of
consuming five or more fruit and vegetable servings per day and attaining 150
minutes or more per week of physical activity was a common strategy among adults
successful at weight loss maintenance.