Lasikiewicz, N., Myrissa, K., Hoyland, A., and Lawton, C.L. (2013) Psychological benefits of weight loss: a systematic research review. Obesity Facts, 6 (Supplement 1). HTP.021. p. 132.

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Abstract

Introduction: It is generally accepted that weight loss has significant physiological benefits, such as reduced risk of diabetes, lowered blood pressure and blood lipid levels. However, few behavioural and dietary interventions have investigated psychological benefit as the primary outcome.

Method: Systematic review methodology was adopted to evaluate the psychological outcomes of weight loss following participation in a behavioural and/or dietary weight loss intervention in overweight/obese populations. 35 studies were selected for inclusion and were reviewed.

Results: Changes in self-esteem, depressive symptoms, body image and health related quality of life (HRQoL) were evaluated and discussed.The results demonstrated consistent improvements in psychological outcomes concurrent with and sometimes without weight loss. Improvements in body image and HRQoL (especially vitality) were closely related to changes in weight.

Conclusion: Although the quality of the studies reviewed was generally acceptable, only 8 out of 35 studies included a suitable control/comparison group and the content, duration of intervention and measures used to assess psychological outcomes varied considerably. Further research is required to improve the quality of studies assessing the benefits of weight loss to fully elucidate the relationship between weight loss and psychological outcomes.

Item ID:	28291
Item Type:	Article (Abstract)
ISSN:	1662-4033
Date Deposited:	31 Jul 2013 23:22
FoR Codes:	17 PSYCHOLOGY AND COGNITIVE SCIENCES > 1701 Psychology > 170106 Health, Clinical and Counselling Psychology @ 50% 11 MEDICAL AND HEALTH SCIENCES > 1111 Nutrition and Dietetics > 111199 Nutrition and Dietetics not elsewhere classified @ 50%
SEO Codes:	92 HEALTH > 9204 Public Health (excl. Specific Population Health) > 920411 Nutrition @ 20% 92 HEALTH > 9204 Public Health (excl. Specific Population Health) > 920401 Behaviour and Health @ 40% 92 HEALTH > 9204 Public Health (excl. Specific Population Health) > 920408 Health Status (e.g. Indicators of Well-Being) @ 40%
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