New Insights into the Experience of Long-Term Weight-Loss Maintenance in an Adaptive, Two-Year Weight Management Programme

The global rise in the prevalence of overweight and obesity, and the disappointing outcomes of long-term weight loss interventions, necessitated an in-depth exploration of effective strategies for sustained weight loss maintenance. This thesis presented a comprehensive study, initiated with a systematic review to identify key themes and behavioural aspects that enhance the likelihood of maintaining long-term weight loss outcomes. Building upon this framework, the research advanced to an empirical investigation involving a primary-care based cohort of 21 individuals with overweight and obesity. Selected from diverse backgrounds within an evidence-based weight-management programme, participants were interviewed at baseline, and subsequently after one and two years, providing quantitative self-assessments of their experiences with weight loss. The study revealed that agile and continuous self-monitoring, in conjunction with personalised, sustainable lifestyle adaptations, significantly correlated with successful weight management outcomes. Many participants reported substantial health benefits and maintained weight loss, frequently attributing their motivation to supportive peer networks. However, this research also identified challenges such as anxiety, disappointment, and life disruptions as significant obstacles to success. Long-term success was found to depend on a robust support system, encompassing healthcare professionals, friends, and family. This research highlighted the complex nature of long-term weight loss maintenance, confirming the persistence of certain universal themes whilst also acknowledging individual variations in their importance over time. The thesis underscored the significance of extended support systems in meeting the diverse needs of individuals striving for sustained weight loss, providing invaluable insights for healthcare professionals and policymakers in the development of more effective weight management strategies

Perspectives into the experience of successful, substantial long-term weight-loss maintenance:a systematic review

Purpose: In light of the increasing prevalence of overweight and obesity, understanding the experiences, strategies and challenges encountered when trying to achieve substantial, sustainable weight loss is an important area to investigate. We systematically evaluated qualitative studies focusing on the accounts of individuals who have achieved sustained weight loss to create a comprehensive picture of the experience of sustainable weight loss. Methods: Included studies were peer-reviewed studies that qualitatively assessed the views and experiences of adults who previously had or currently have overweight or obesity who successfully lost weight and who subsequently maintained or regained weight. The evidence was systematically synthesized, which enabled the formulation of clear themes and recommendations. Results: The 15 chosen studies included the accounts of 294 individuals. We found that continuous monitoring and goal setting, driven by sustained motivation and encouraging experiences, while resisting ever present challenges and enduring discouraging experience encapsulates the experience of sustained, substantial weight loss. Conclusions: This review aims to provide a comprehensive understanding of the experiences, strategies and challenges encountered when trying to achieve substantial, sustained weight loss. Additional research taking into account findings from this review and others of its kind will enhance the formulation of treatment protocols

Primary care-led weight-management intervention: qualitative insights into patient experiences at one-year follow up

ABSTRACTIntroductionThe global prevalence of overweight and obesity is continuously increasing. Long-term weight loss results remain disappointing. This study aims to identify factors and strategies for successful long-term weight loss in a primary care-led weight-loss intervention from the perspective of participants.Materials and methodsThis qualitative interview study is the first follow-up study in a 2-year study series of participants with overweight or obesity. Methods utilized are semi-structured interviews (n = 20) with quantitative self-description. The data were transcribed from audio-taped interviews and analysed thematically.ResultsThis study found that clear, continuously evolving self-monitoring strategies facilitated by strong routines and a long-term focus enhanced successful outcomes. Challenges faced included stress, disappointment and loss of routine along with external criticism and discouragement. Benefits experienced due to weight loss included improved health, self-esteem, communal support and encouragement, which continued to fuel motivation. Receiving continuous support and encouragement from healthcare practitioners was instrumental for long-term success.ConclusionThis study highlighted the complex, multifaceted experiences patients encounter in the pursuit of trying to achieve long-term weight loss. Personalized treatment protocols taking into account the diverse requirements and circumstances of individuals have the potential to improve treatment outcomes. Continuous, professional support may enhance long-term outcomes