Research
Adherence
Rapid and large initial weight loss is associated with better long-term weight maintenance compared to slow, gradual weight loss.
Do not be afraid of losing weight quickly. Evidence shows that rapid initial loss does not lead to worse long-term results and may actually help you maintain a lower weight. Focus on achieving a significant deficit rather than slowing down to avoid 'rebound'.
GoodRefutesHIGH confidence
Within weight-loss trials, more rapid and greater initial weight loss has been associated with lower body weight at the end of long-term follow-up.
Why this rating
Based on meta-analysis of RCTs comparing rapid vs slow loss.
Source
Myths, Presumptions, and Facts about Obesity
Krista Casazza et al. · New England Journal of Medicine · 2013
DOI 10.1056/nejmsa1208051
narrative_reviewCited 438×
Read the paper DOI resolved against Crossref · corpus check 2026-06-10
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This is one finding among thousands. Every one is graded and traced to its source, so you can see what the evidence actually supports. Browse the research →