A qualitative investigation of individuals’ experiences and expectations before and after completing a trial of commercial weight loss programs
Herriot AM, Thomas DE, Hart KH, Warren J, Truby H. J Hum Nutr Diet. 2008;21:72-80
Objective
To compare previous dieting experiences, motivators and expectations of individuals pre and post-intervention participating in four commercial weight-loss programs (Atkins, Weight Watchers, Slim-Fast® and the Rosemary Conley) versus a control group.
Methods
Both men and women, with an average age of 42.3 years and a mean BMI
32kg/m2, participated in focus groups at baseline and post-intervention. All group discussion was audio recorded along with precise notes of participants’ responses regarding experiences, motivators, and expectations, used for analysis of emerging themes.
Results
Previous motivators to diet include negative verbal comments, having confidence to attend special occasions/events, look good in clothing/pictures & public embarrassment. The opportunity to take part in an academic study along with a lack of self esteem and confidence were the main motivators to enrolling in the study. Motivation and self-efficacy were the most common enablers amongst those who had successfully lost weight (or at least not gained) weight. The marketing strategies of the individual companies of the commercial diets matched the ‘pros’ identified in the trial, e.g. convenient and quick (Slim-Fast).
Conclusion
This study demonstrated that reducing health risks was not the main motivator for people deciding to lose weight. Predictors of successful weight loss included internal motivators such as increased confidence and self esteem. It is important to match a diet program to the individual. For individuals looking for a nutritionally balanced, quick and convenient ‘quick fix’ for weight loss, Slim-Fast may be the perfect match.
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