Are we setting unattainable goals or are we just giving up too soon? A Newspoll study, commissioned by the Dietitians Association of Australia, has found that many Australians are being unsuccessful in their weight-loss goals.
The survey of more than 500 men and women aged 25-49 years found that 55 per cent of adults in this age group have tried to lose weight in the last 12 months, with only 20 per cent of these adults succeeding. Women and the 40+ age group both found it the hardest to stay a healthy weight (on 34 per cent and 36 per cent respectively).
The study found that 25 per cent of adults who had tried to lose weight in the past year had undertaken one of the eight listed popular diets, including meal replacement shakes, fasting and the Atkins diet. Men and women had both equally tried one of the listed fad diets.
DAA spokesperson Dr Clare Collins says the key to losing weight is to never give up, as many Australians become disillusioned from failed weight loss attempts. Like most Aussies who have tried to quit smoking, it can take more than one attempt to be successful when it comes to losing the weight for good,” says Dr Collins.
The results coincide with Australia’s Healthy Weight Week, held February 17-23. To get involved in the event, visit www.healthyweightweek.com.au.
