A structured weight loss program proves effective

If you wish to lose weight and, this time, want to try applying a structured approach in order to increase your odds of success, it just might be a good idea. A recent study has found that after one year, people on a Weight Watchers program lost twice as much weight as those who only had access to their doctor’s nutritional advice.

The study findings also revealed that blood glucose (sugar) and cholesterol levels were more significantly improved in the Weight Watchers group. The 772 participants in this study were from Britain, Australia and Germany.

The Weight Watchers program consists of weekly meetings in which a low-calorie diet and exercise are promoted. Meetings include weigh-ins and group discussions to engender mutual support. Participants also have access to online tools for meal planning. The participants did not have to pay any Weight Watchers program fees for this study, but they did have to pay for their food.

The great majority of participants were women (87 percent), their average age was 47, and their body mass index (BMI) ranged from 27 to 35 kg/m2 at the beginning of the study (a BMI > 27 is considered overweight, and > 30 is considered obese). Many patients did not complete the study, namely 39 percent of those in the Weight Watchers group and 46 percent of those receiving medical advice. An analysis of those who did complete the study showed an average weight loss of 6.7 kg in the Weight Watchers group vs. 3.3 kg in the group receiving standard care.

Adapting your lifestyle in order to reach and maintain a healthy body weight can be a long process, but it’s worth the effort. Having the support of other people who are going through the same thing can make all the difference. There are various organizations and companies in Quebec that offer weight loss programs. Visit their websites or give them a call to find the one that is best suited to your needs. Good luck!