Weight gain prevention among women

Area of Science:

• Obesity prevention research
• Behavioral science
• Public health

Background:

• Women aged 25-45 are susceptible to weight gain and obesity.
• Effective weight gain prevention strategies are crucial for long-term health.

Purpose of the Study:

• To assess the efficacy of two interventions versus a control for preventing weight gain in normal to overweight women.
• To identify demographic, behavioral, and psychosocial factors associated with successful weight gain prevention.

Main Methods:

• 284 healthy women (BMI < 30, ages 25-44) were randomized into a clinic-based group, correspondence course, or information-only control.
• Interventions lasted 2 years, with follow-up at Year 3. Body Mass Index (BMI) and eating/weight-related factors were assessed annually.

Main Results:

• No intervention demonstrated a significant effect on weight change over 3 years.
• 40% of women maintained or lost weight, while 60% gained weight.
• Independent of intervention, older age, not actively dieting for weight loss, and lower baseline hunger predicted weight maintenance. Increased dietary restraint and decreased disinhibition over time also correlated with weight maintenance.

Conclusions:

• Current weight gain prevention interventions show limited feasibility and efficacy.
• Women's focus on weight loss rather than prevention, and the interventions' lack of impact on weight stability, raise concerns.
• Novel approaches are required for effective weight gain prevention in this demographic.