Correlates of Weight-Loss Methods Among Young Adults in Canada

The aim of this study was to examine the prevalence of various weight-loss behaviors among young adults in Canada and differences in the use of these methods by demographic characteristics, health literacy, and perceived body size.

Data from the 2016 wave of the Canada Food Study were used, which collected self-reported information from 3,000 young adults in five cities. Linear regression models were conducted to investigate correlates of the number and type of weight-loss methods used across the following four categories: dietary changes, physical activity, assisted weight-loss methods, and unhealthy behaviors.

In the past 12 months, more than half of respondents reported a weight-loss attempt, and nearly one-fifth engaged in an unhealthy weight-loss method. The risk of engaging in a greater number of weight-loss behaviors across categories was higher for women, nonbinary-gendered individuals, and individuals who perceived themselves as having overweight or obesity. Respondents with lower health literacy engaged in a significantly greater number of unhealthy methods.

Many young adults use healthier weight-loss strategies, but a concerning number use multiple and/or unhealthy weight-loss methods as well. Furthermore, there are subgroup differences in weight-loss method engagement, which holds significance for public health efforts aiming to improve weight-related behaviors.