Skipping meals and diet pills do not contribute to weight loss, according to Ohio State University in the USA. The results of the research have been published magazine Journal of the American Heart Association.
The study included more than 20,000 people who participated in the National Health and Nutrition Survey (NHANES) between 2007 and 2016. All volunteers filled out a demographic questionnaire and also talked about their eating habits and lifestyles. In addition, they made an assessment of the general condition of the body.
Within the sample, 17,000 people lost less than 5% of their body weight, maintained their weight, or gained it within the past year. Others have reported that they have successfully lost at least 5% of their body weight in the same time frame.
The scientists analyzed the data and found that healthy eating and exercise were associated with weight loss. This reduces the risk of heart disease. In contrast, those who skipped meals or took prescription diet pills lost little or no weight, and in some cases even gained weight.
Adults who reported clinically significant weight loss of 5% or more of their body weight had better protein, refined grains and added sugar intake, as well as more moderate physical activity and lower LDL cholesterol. weight loss.
According to the scientists, the findings will help update recommendations for maintaining cardiovascular health in humans.