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. 2021 Dec;16(1):1862481.
doi: 10.1080/17482631.2020.1862481.

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

Marie Spreckley  1 , Jaap Seidell  1 , Jutka Halberstadt  1
Affiliations

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

Marie Spreckley et al. Int J Qual Stud Health Well-being. 2021 Dec.

Abstract

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.

Keywords: Sustainable weight loss; long-term weight loss; obesity management; weight loss; weight management.

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Conflict of interest statement

All authors contributed to this review. The authors received no funding for this review and there is no potential conflict of interest.

Figures

Figure 1.
Figure 1.
PRISMA flow diagram of studies identified
Figure 2.
Figure 2.
Determinants of sustainable weight loss—a framework
See this image and copyright information in PMC

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