Challenges in Weight Loss
Effect of Personality on Weight Loss Behaviors: A Retrospective Study among College Students
Paper Presentation in a Themed Session Gloria McNamara
This research explored the relationship between weight loss strategies and personality traits among college students. The research participants had successfully sustained at least a 10 pound weight loss over the past 3 years. Utilizing the Howard & McArthur Survey, participants identified the weight loss strategies they used. Following this step, participants completed the Myers-Briggs Personality Inventory Test. Pearson correlation analyses was conducted on the matched data sets. The findings reveal that 4 weight loss strategies were correlated with significance to specific personality traits. From this study, it may be inferred that persons with leadership personalities may be more inclined to count fat grams (r=.36 , p<.05), use herbal products (r=.33, p<.05), and try fat scrubbing devices (r=.4, p<.05). Conversely, it may be inferred that it is unlikely that persons with personality traits of conscientiousness would consider planning more non-eating social events as a weight loss strategy (r=-.4, p<.05). An implication of this study is that dimensions of wellness may be found when exploring the interaction of mind, body and health behaviors. Excess body weight has been found to contribute to heart disease, cancer, type 2 diabetes and hypertension; it also affects 1 in 3 adults in the United States. Perhaps tailoring weight loss strategies according to an individual's personality may facilitate successful weight loss and enable healthful behaviors. More research is needed in this area to explore whether personality is a mediating factor.
Weight Fluctuations Associated with Commonly Prescribed Weight Loss Interventions: Is the Weight Loss Worth It?
Paper Presentation in a Themed Session Amy Miller
Weight fluctuation, which has been associated with increased systemic inflammation, is a frequent byproduct of common weight loss interventions. This study examined the effects of three different weight-loss interventions on weight fluctuation over a two year time span. A retrospective chart review of was used to examine 426 members with a BMI between 25.0 and 39.99 kg/m2. Methods. Measured weight was gathered every 6 months starting at baseline from members who met with a preventive medicine physician and attended behavior change classes and/or were prescribed appetite suppressants. Root mean square errors (RMSE) were calculated for each individual and analyses were performed using an ANCOVA while controlling for starting weight. Results. Greater fluctuation was seen in individuals with a higher starting weight. Health professionals should be cautious when recommending weight loss for individuals with a high BMI. Current weight loss strategies should shift to include a focus on weight loss maintenance.
