More Disappointing News About Diets

Popular diets provide modest, temporary weight loss, but do not achieve lasting change, according to a recent study in Circulation: Cardiovascular Quality and Outcomes.

For decades, there has been an ongoing debate about which commercial diet programs are most effective. The controversy is based on different theories about which macronutrient composition is most effective to promote effective weight loss. (The USDA defines macronutrients, the building blocks of meals, as carbohydrates, proteins, fats/cholesterol, fiber and water.)

4 Diets Studied

The journal writers reviewed the efficacy of the Atkins, South Beach, Zone and Weight Watchers diets. Atkins promotes unlimited protein and fat intake with very few carbohydrates. The South Beach Diet is a modified low-carb/high protein regimen. The Zone Diet advocates eating limited carbs, low-fat protein and small amounts of healthy fats. Weight Watchers combines calorie reduction, physical activity, behavior modifications and weekly meetings.

Researchers looked for sustained weight loss over at least 12 months and changes in cardiovascular risk factors like glucose levels, blood pressure and cholesterol. The only plan that showed some advantage after 12 months was Weight Watchers, probably because it encourages overall lifestyle changes. None of the diets showed significant improvement in cardiovascular risk factors.

A fundamental problem is that the term “diet” promotes a mindset focused on temporary solutions to lifetime, daily practices. Any diets that completely eliminate a whole food group are not feasible in the long run. The most effective way to achieve and sustain a healthy weight is to learn to maintain a balanced food plan. Furthermore, people who also integrate physical activity into their daily routine also tend to be more successful in maintaining a healthy weight.

This post was written by Maria Elena Pena, MD, director of the Center for Weight Management at Syosset Hospital.

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