A large study from the United States shows that skipping meals and using diet pills do not help people lose weight. The findings were shared in the Journal of the American Heart Association, reflecting a significant body of research led by researchers affiliated with Ohio State University and colleagues across the nation.
The investigation drew on data from more than 20,000 adults who participated in the National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey NHANES between 2007 and 2016. Participants completed detailed questionnaires about demographics, eating patterns, and lifestyle habits, and underwent health assessments to gauge overall body condition and metabolic health.
Among the participants, about 17,000 individuals experienced little to no sustained change in weight over the prior year. Some remained under five percent lighter or heavier, while others reported successful weight reductions of five percent or more. These patterns help illustrate the varied outcomes people experience with different weight management approaches.
Analysts found that those who adopted healthy eating and regular physical activity tended to achieve meaningful weight loss and improve related health markers. In contrast, individuals who frequently skipped meals or relied on prescription diet pills saw minimal weight reduction, and in some cases reported weight regain or no change at all.
For adults who did achieve a clinically meaningful weight loss of five percent or more of body weight, the study noted associations with dietary changes and activity levels. Participants tended to have lower intake of refined grains and added sugars, higher engagement in moderate physical activity, and improved lipid profiles, specifically lower LDL cholesterol. These patterns align with broader cardiovascular health guidelines and emphasize the link between weight management and heart health.
The researchers suggest that the results may inform future recommendations aimed at maintaining cardiovascular health. By highlighting the real-world outcomes of different weight management strategies, the study contributes to a clearer understanding of how diet quality, exercise, and consistent habits influence long-term health outcomes rather than short-term fluctuations in weight.