What predicts weight regain in a group of successful weight losers?

TLDR

The study aimed to identify predictors of weight regain versus maintenance among long‑term successful weight losers. Data on weight, behavior, and psychological factors were collected at baseline and after one year. Thirty‑five percent of participants regained weight while 59% maintained loss; predictors of regain included recent and large weight loss, higher depression, dietary disinhibition, and binge eating, and during follow‑up gainers exhibited reduced energy expenditure, higher fat intake, lower restraint, and increased hunger, disinhibition, and binge eating, underscoring the importance of sustained behavior change for preventing regain.

Abstract

This study identified predictors of weight gain versus continued maintenance among individuals already successful at long-term weight loss. Weight, behavior, and psychological information was collected on entry into the study and 1 year later. Thirty-five percent gained weight over the year of follow-up, and 59% maintained their weight losses. Risk factors for weight regain included more recent weight losses (less than 2 years vs. 2 years or more), larger weight losses (greater than 30% of maximum weight vs. less than 30%), and higher levels of depression, dietary disinhibition, and binge eating levels at entry into the registry. Over the year of follow-up, gainers reported greater decreases in energy expenditure and greater increases in percentage of calories from fat. Gainers also reported greater decreases in restraint and increases in hunger, dietary disinhibition, and binge eating. This study suggests that several years of successful weight maintenance increase the probability of future weight maintenance and that weight regain is due at least in part to failure to maintain behavior changes.