Prevalence of weight cycling and its relation to health indicators in Finland

Obes Res. 2005 Feb;13(2):333-41. doi: 10.1038/oby.2005.45.

Abstract

Objective: This study was performed to identify weight cyclers and to assess the prevalence of weight cycling and its relation to health indicators in Finnish adults.

Research methods and procedures: Data for the study consisted of 3320 men and 3540 women (25 to 64 years of age). The subjects went through a health examination, and data on intentional weight losses and regains during the last 10 years were collected by a questionnaire. The subjects were divided into five groups: severe weight cyclers (weight loss >/= 5 kg at least three times with regain), mild weight cyclers (weight loss >/= 5 kg one to two times and regain), successful dieters (weight loss >/= 5 kg with no regain), nonobese nondieters, and obese nondieters.

Results: Approximately 7% of men and 10% of women were defined as severe weight cyclers, and an additional 11% and 19% were defined as mild weight cyclers, respectively. In men, 20% of severe weight cyclers and 15% of obese nondieters perceived their health as poor, whereas in other groups, these proportions were <10%. In both sexes, severe weight cyclers seemed to have visited a doctor more frequently than nonobese nondieters. Severe weight cyclers were also more likely to use some medication compared with other groups.

Discussion: Weight cycling is more common in women than in men, and it seems to be associated with more regular visits to a doctor and poor self-perceived health. However, because of the cross-sectional design of the study, causal conclusions cannot be drawn.

Publication types

  • Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov't

MeSH terms

  • Adult
  • Body Mass Index
  • Cardiovascular Diseases
  • Diet, Reducing
  • Female
  • Finland
  • Health Status*
  • Humans
  • Male
  • Middle Aged
  • Obesity / therapy
  • Risk Factors
  • Self Concept
  • Weight Gain*
  • Weight Loss*