Struggling with weight loss and dieting is a common challenge for many. In this blog, we unlock the secrets to weight loss and uncover the statistics on dieting and weight loss, the usual routes of weight loss and their success rates, and how a registered dietitian can help you achieve your goals. We'll also explore the unique approach of personalized medical nutrition therapy and how it can make a difference in your wellness journey. Let's discover the facts and strategies that can lead to sustainable and successful weight management inside our weight loss program.
Statistics on dieting and how that impacts our weight
Sticking with the changes that helped you lose weight is crucial if you want to keep it off. However, many diets are rigid and unrealistic. Have you ever noticed this? The "I will start my diet on Monday" mantra, often accompanied by dread and defeat before you even begin? Sometimes, that "Monday" keeps getting pushed back for various reasons.
Seriously, you are not alone. The mental gymnastics of even considering a diet or weight loss program can be beyond exhausting. And knowing that, on average, weight loss efforts typically last only about four weeks for women and six weeks for men can feel downright disheartening. It's no wonder we often feel like we're stuck in a never-ending cycle.
A comprehensive review of 29 long-term weight loss studies revealed that more than half of those who lost weight regained it within two years, and over 80% of the weight had returned within five years. This pattern often results in emotional yo-yo dieting, characterized by weight cycling, which can hinder future weight loss efforts and adversely affect metabolic health.
The perception of needing to maintain a diet despite no further weight loss can be incredibly frustrating. It might feel like your brain is working against you, with appetite signals operating beyond your conscious awareness. After losing weight, your brain might start amplifying your appetite, leading to subtle changes like gradually increasing portion sizes without realizing it. This subconscious bias can be disheartening, especially when you're trying so hard to stay on track. And with daily food intake fluctuating by 20–30%, it's easy to miss these small increases. No wonder you might feel like you're fighting an uphill battle. This emotional rollercoaster can be exhausting, but understanding these underlying mechanisms can help you navigate your journey with more compassion for yourself.
Usual routes of weight loss and success rate
You've probably heard about "the best way to lose weight" at some point. About 43% of all adults report trying to lose weight, and 23% are working to maintain their weight each year. The typical routes to weight loss have been around for many years. Most diets involve unrealistic calorie restrictions or specific plans like low-carb, disgusting cleanses, annoying point counting, meal replacements, and time-controlled eating.
The truth is that each of these methods has its own success and failure rate. Meal replacements, whether shakes, bars, or prepared foods, focus on short-term weight loss. But is this realistic five years down the road, during pregnancy, or when traveling with family? While some might stick with them, meal replacement diets are often the first to be abandoned.
The most common diet involves food restriction. In fact, nearly 90% of people are omitting foods or food groups from their daily eating to obtain said weight loss. It's infuriating and downright confusing. Like, WHY are there diets out there that are going to set you up for failure? I mean, come on! The truth is, any eating plan that eliminates favorite foods or entire food groups is unsustainable. A study on resisting temptation showed that people who were prohibited from eating chocolate for 24 hours ate significantly more when they finally had access compared to those who weren't restricted. Does this sound familiar? It is not your fault. Diets that forbid specific foods, especially favorites, can lead to overeating by 133%.
Starting over and over again with dieting can make you feel like giving up. It's frustrating, tiring, and can make you feel stuck in a loop. But here's the thing: every time you start over, you learn something new about yourself and what works (or doesn't) for you. It's like trying to ride a bike – it's okay to fall because every fall teaches you how to balance better. So, don't be too hard on yourself. Progress isn't always a straight line, and that's perfectly normal. You've got the strength to keep going, and we're here to help you every step of the way. Remember, it's not about perfection, it's about persistence.
A more effective strategy for achieving your nutrition and wellness goals is through support groups and coaching with a nutritionist or dietitian. This approach has a higher success rate due to the accountability and ongoing support. Working together, you'll learn to adjust your nutrition and activity levels to meet your specific goals, making long-term maintenance more attainable.
Nutrition and exercise are fundamental, but support systems, behavioral changes, and medical nutrition interventions can greatly enhance long-term success.
How a registered dietitian can help you make this happen
There is a dietetic term called MNT that stands for medical nutrition therapy, which is a form of behavioral therapy. All dietitians must have a master's degree in nutrition and health, complete a 1200-hour internship, and pass their state-registered dietitian board exam. Working with a dietitian is medical nutrition in the form of therapy (this means we will be talking and working through your nutrition agenda together). Dietitians can be found in many ways, either through a referral from your primary care, at the hospital, or even in private practices.
Many people find medical nutrition therapy super helpful for weight loss. Your dietitian will guide you on how many calories to eat daily to reach your weight goals safely and steadily. They can also help you plan a healthy, nutritious diet and make positive lifestyle changes that stick.
Before your first visit, ask your dietitian how to prepare. Some might ask you to keep a food journal for a few days. Write down everything you eat and be honest—this helps set realistic goals.
You'll also learn how to:
Understand food labels
Discover the right number of calories for you
Use your hunger and fullness cues
Know how much water to drink
Enjoy a variety of foods (even your favorites!)
Build a satisfying plate
Understand food terms
Know the difference between portion and serving sizes
Become active through movement you enjoy
Why NWE is different and how we can help
There are several advantages to pursuing personalized medical nutrition therapy with NWE. For starters, we offer multiple avenues to help you achieve your goals. Our mission is to support you during your nutrition and wellness journey, providing the encouragement and knowledge you need to reach your goals. And guess what? We will never tell you to stop enjoying your favorites like chocolate, pizza, or a glass of wine. We meet you where you are without making drastic changes overnight. Sounds too good to be true? I completely get it.
Even if you're doing 1:1 nutrition counseling, you're still part of our community—a safe place, away from social media, where you can connect with others going through their own similar journey. Plus, did you know NWE accepts health insurance for one-on-one signature nutrition coaching?
Imagine finally finding what works for you, the joy of seeing the lasting progress, and the confidence that comes from knowing you're on the right path. This isn't just about losing weight; it's about gaining a healthier, happier life. Together, we can uncover the secrets to success and celebrate every victory while standing by your side when things get tough. You deserve to feel empowered and proud of your journey, and we're here to support you every step of the way. Let's do this—you're not alone and have everything it takes to succeed!
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