Behavioural correlates of successful weight reduction over 3 y. Results from the Lean Habits Study.
OBJECTIVE
To examine behavioural characteristics of subjects with successful long-term weight reduction.


METHODS
Prospective cohort study with 3 y follow-up.


METHODS
Multicentre study of participants of a commercial weight-reduction programme (BCM-Programme).


METHODS
Until February 2000, 6857 voluntary study participants were included. Analyses are based on 1247 subjects with complete 3 y data.


METHODS
Open-group dietary and behavioural counselling with initial meal substitutions.


RESULTS
Subjects show a number of significant behavioural improvements, for example, choice of low-fat food, flexible control of eating behaviour and coping with stress. Subjects who maintain these changes by the end of the first year have a higher probability of successful weight reduction after 3 y.


CONCLUSIONS
Successful weight maintenance is associated with more pronounced improvements of health behaviours after 1 y. The likelihood of success increases with the number of behavioural patterns which are involved in the process of change.
Westenhoefer
J
J
Department of Nutrition and Home Economics, Hamburg University of Applied Sciences, Hamburg, Germany. joachim@westenhoefer.de
von Falck
B
B
Stellfeldt
A
A
Fintelmann
S
S
D000223:Adaptation, Psychological; D000328:Adult; D001521:Behavior Therapy / Q000379:methods*; D003131:Combined Modality Therapy; D004038:Diet, Reducing / Q000523:psychology*; D005247:Feeding Behavior; D005260:Female; D006801:Humans; D008297:Male; D008875:Middle Aged; D009765:Obesity / Q000503:physiopathology / Q000523:psychology / Q000628:therapy*; D016017:Odds Ratio; D011446:Prospective Studies; D016896:Treatment Outcome; D015431:Weight Loss