Adherence
Large initial weight loss achieved via a Very Low Calorie Diet (VLCD) combined with behavioral therapy and group support predicts significant long-term weight loss maintenance (1-3 years), refuting the belief that rapid weight loss leads to poorer long-term outcomes.
If you are obese and motivated, a medically supervised Very Low Calorie Diet (under 800 kcal/day) combined with weekly group support and behavioral therapy can lead to significant, lasting weight loss. The key is not how fast you lose, but that you stay engaged with the support program after the diet phase. Large initial losses predict better long-term maintenance.
The findings of this retrospective analysis suggest that provided a longer term weight loss management programme is adhered to, large amounts of initial weight loss can result in important longer term weight loss maintenance in motivated individuals.
Why this rating
Retrospective database analysis with significant attrition (only 10% of cohort retained at 3 years), though large initial sample size (n=5965).
Source
Long-term weight loss maintenance and management following a VLCD: a 3-year outcome
Catherine Rolland et al. · International Journal of Clinical Practice · 2013
DOI 10.1111/ijcp.12300
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