Rapid Weight Loss Found More Effective Than Slow Dieting: New Study

ISLAMABAD (Qudrat Roznama): A new medical study presented at the European Congress on Obesity has revealed that rapid weight loss may be more effective in the long term compared to traditional slow and steady dieting methods.

The 52-week clinical trial included 284 overweight and obese participants who were divided into two groups. One group followed a rapid weight-loss program, while the other adopted a gradual dieting approach.

According to researchers, participants in the rapid weight-loss group followed a very low-calorie diet during the first 16 weeks, initially consuming fewer than 1,000 calories per day before gradually increasing intake to around 1,500 calories. Meanwhile, the second group consumed a moderate diet averaging about 1,400 calories daily.

After the initial phase, both groups participated in a 36-week weight maintenance program that included coaching, guidance, and ongoing support aimed at preventing weight regain.

The study found that participants in the rapid weight-loss group lost nearly 13 percent of their body weight within the first 16 weeks, compared to just over 8 percent among those following gradual dieting plans.

Researchers also discovered that individuals who lost weight quickly were more successful in maintaining lower body weight after one year. These participants also showed reduced risks of Type 2 Diabetes, high blood pressure, heart disease, and joint pain.