Quick study

Weight management

The question: How much do interactive weight-control programs help when it comes to avoiding regaining lost pounds?

This study: It involved 1,032 adults who had lost an average of 19 pounds in a six-month weight-loss program that emphasized diet and physical activity. They were randomly assigned to follow a technology-based program with unlimited access to an interactive Web site; a program providing support and guidance through face-to-face or phone contact with a counselor; or a self-directed program with printed diet and activity recommendations.

After 2 years, people in all groups regained weight but still weighed less than at the start of the study. Regained weight averaged 8.8 pounds in the personal-contact group; 11.5 pounds in the Web-based group; and 12.1 pounds in the self-directed group.

Who may be affected? People who want to sustain weight loss. Most health experts say that keeping weight off requires as much if not more effort and commitment as losing the pounds initially.

Caveats: In comparing the numbers, the authors wrote: "Even modest weight loss can improve cardiovascular risk factors," adding that a 2.2-pound loss correlates to a drop in systolic blood pressure of 1.0 to 2.4 mmHg and a reduced risk of diabetes.

Find this study: March 12 issue of the Journal of the American Medical Association.

Learn more: www.mayoclinic.com (search for "weight").