April 9, 2003 – A structured diet, like the one offered by Weight Watchers, would achieve modest weight loss, but would still be more effective than a “home” diet.
This conclusion is based on the weight loss recorded by 423 people.1. Half of them were invited to join the Weight Watchers program, while the other half received the usual advice on diet and exercise.
After two years, the average weight loss for the Weight Watchers group was around 2.7 pounds. However, among the participants who attended at least 78% of the weekly meetings, the weight loss was almost five kilograms. In comparison, the other group lost an average of 0.17 kilograms.
The researchers believe, however, that even the best results achieved by the Weight Watchers group remain modest and well below what participants hoped to lose or would need to lose to improve their health.
However, the difference between the two groups could be explained by the structure and support offered by Weight Watchers. Researchers believe that participating in a structured program helps people stay focused on their goal.
Similarly, Brown University researchers conclude that weight loss programs offered online can be effective.2. The 92 people who took part in the study all signed up for a diet online, but half of them also had access, via email, to a weight loss counselor. The first group lost an average of 1.7 kilograms and the second more than double, or 4.5 kilograms.
Finally, researchers at Stanford University say they have been unable to detect any link between low-carbohydrate diets and weight loss.3.
Jean-Benoit Legault – PasseportSanté.net
According to British Medical Journal, February 8, 2003.
1. Link to the study on the JAMA website: jama.ama-assn.org/cgi/content/abstract/289/14/1792 [Consulté le 9 avril 2003].
2. Link to the study on the JAMA website: jama.ama-assn.org/cgi/content/abstract/289/14/1833 [Consulté le 9 avril 2003].
3. Link to the study on the JAMA website: jama.ama-assn.org/cgi/content/abstract/289/14/1837 [Consulté le 9 avril 2003].
