Feeding Behaviors and Weight Loss Outcomes over 64 Months

Mattes RD. Eating Behavior. 2002;3:191-204.

Objective

To assess the associations between intentional weight loss outcomes and dietary, behavioral, psychological and physiological indices, and identify predictive indices that may aid in the design of dietary intervention approaches.

Methods

In this exploratory study, 80 individuals (27 males; 53 females) participated in a long-term weight loss program over a 64-month period. Participants were divided into maintainers (weight loss >5 kg at Year 1, sustained reduction >75% at Month 64), rebounders (weight loss >5 kg at Year 1, <75% reduction at Month 64), and nonresponders (weight loss <5 kg at Year 1). The weight loss phase of the program involved daily substitution of 8 fl. oz. servings of Slim•Fast for 2 meals and consumption of one 250-500 calorie meal, plus 3 optional Slim•Fast snacks equaling approximately 1130-1190 calories. In the weight maintenance phase, only one meal was replaced with Slim•Fast; if a 2-3 pound weight gain was experienced, the participant returned to the weight loss phase. Participants were weighed weekly for 12 weeks, and twice per year for the following 5 years. After the second year, only Slim•Fast ready-to-drink meal replacements, meal bars, and snack were provided. Dietary data were collected at baseline, month 12, 24, 38, 48, and 64. At the 64 month weigh in, questionnaire information including time spent purchasing and preparing food, the social aspects of meals, and concern about specific dietary food components was obtained.

Results

The mean weight loss at 12 months was 8.72 kg +/- 0.50 kg. Ninety percent of the participants weighed at least 5 kg less at 12 months than at baseline. The mean weight loss at Month 64 was 5.21 +/-0.78kg. Nonresponders spent more time shopping for food, more time eating food, and ate with fewer people. Maintainers reported higher mean hunger throughout the day (P=.013), spent more time preparing food, and consumed fewer calories from fat compared to nonresponders and rebounders.

Conclusion

Slim•Fast meal replacements and snacks are well tolerated and a successful means for long-term weight loss and maintenance.

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