Researchers from Duke University, Johns Hopkins University, and the Kaiser Permanente Center for Health Research have conducted a study that shows that regular and long-term contact with a weight-loss counselor is the most effective way for overweight and obese individuals to lose weight, and to maintain that weight loss over a long period of time.
The individuals who participated in the Weight Loss Maintenance (WLM) trial were successful at losing an average of 18 pounds after six months.
The most successful of the participants-those who lost 9 pounds or more-were then split-up into three groups. The first group had monthly personal contact with a weight-loss counselor. The second group used a Web-based weight maintenance program. And the third group was responsible for maintaining their weight loss on their own.
After 30 months, almost all of the participants had gained back some of their weight. But, the most successful of the three groups were those that had regular contact with a weight-loss counselor. On average, that group gained back about 8 pounds as compared with the other two groups, who gained back on average about 12 pounds. Which means that the first group was able to lose 10 pounds and keep it off for over two years.
While 10 pounds may not seem like a lot, even moderate weight loss for an overweight or an obese individual can have major health benefits, including: a reduced risk of diabetes, a decrease in blood pressure, and may improve an individuals risk factors for cardiovascular disease.
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