The secret to losing weight lies in having unrealistic targets, research suggests.
A study of more than 24,000
obese people found that those who set themselves the target of dropping
to their ‘dream weight’ managed to lose around 19% of their body weight -
an average of three stone.
In contrast, those who set themselves more realistic targets lost far less weight.
The secret to losing weight lies in having unrealistic targets, research suggests.
A study of more than 24,000
obese people found that those who set themselves the target of dropping
to their ‘dream weight’ managed to lose around 19% of their body weight -
an average of three stone.
In contrast, those who set themselves more realistic targets lost far less weight.
Study author Amanda Avery, Nottingham University academic and consultant dietitian for Slimming World, said the findings are particularly important at a time when a greater number of people will be considering weight loss.
“January is the most popular
time of the year to start a healthy weight loss programme and so it’s
really important that people have the information they need to maximise
their chances of success,” she said.
“We know that current NHS
and NICE advice around realistic weight loss targets is designed to
protect slimmers from disappointment. However, suggesting that people
place limits on their weight loss aims could stop people from seeing what they’re capable of.
“It’s important that people have aspirations and can visualise themselves achieving success.”
She added that the research, conducted by the University of Nottingham on behalf of Slimming World, shows that it’s “best to inspire people to set the weight loss target they would personally really like to achieve”.
She believes this will aid motivation as, if it is really their dream weight, they’ll be more committed to achieving it.
“Setting a target is really
only the beginning, though, and it’s vital that people also get regular
support to make healthy changes to their eating and activity habits and
to help them stay focused, committed and encouraged,” she continued.
“Working together with
others to share experiences and solutions to challenges and to celebrate
successful weight loss and behaviour change can keep people motivated
to achieve long-term success.
“It’s great that the NHS and
NICE already encourage people who want to lose weight to set a target,
as our study found that people who set their own personal target – as
most of our members choose to – were 10 times more likely to be
successful.
“The next stage is for them
to look more closely at how encouraging patients to aim for their dream
weight can increase their chances of success, as long as they’re also
getting support along the way.”
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