Weight Loss Programs
Weight Loss Programs
There are so many weight loss programs available today that it is very difficult to ascertain which one will be best for you. In 2005, Michael Dansinger MD from Tufts University conducted a trial that compared the effectiveness of 4 popular weight loss programs:- Atkins, Zone, Weight Watchers, and Ornish.
160 participants aged between 22 years and 72 years with a mean BMI of 35 were randomly assigned to one of the 4 weight loss programs. The Atkins Diet was carbohydrate restricted, the Zone was macro nutrient balanced, the weight watchers diet was calorie restricted and the Ornish was fat restricted. The participants followed a supervised program for 2 months and then were left to follow the diet on their own. Unfortunately 22% left the study after 2 months.
Each group had a modest increase of exercise throughout the trial.
The overall results showed that all 4 weight loss programs had a measure of success depending on the level of adherence. The trial concluded that there was evidence to suggest that there was not one diet to suit all types. By the end of the trial more people had dropped out of the Ornish and the Atkins suggesting that many people found these weight loss programs too extreme and therefore more difficult to stick to. Perhaps if the participants had been able to choose which program to follow the results may have been better.
The fact that one diet doesn’t suit all is a vital piece in the weight loss puzzle. We all have different metabolic rates and different ways of processing our food. If we know what these differences are then we can choose a weight loss programs that can be closely matched to our specific needs.
However the bottom line would seem to be adherence to the program for more than just a few weeks. All weight loss programs will only be successful if the participant follows it properly 98% of the time. We all have our 2% lapses but the answer is to get back on the diet as soon as possible. It is also essential to realize that permanent changes need to be made if the weight loss program results are to be maintained.
Janet Matthews
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