Weight Cycling

 Weight cycling (or yo-yo dieting) is the term used when there is recurrent loss and regain of weight. Studies have shown that weight cycling is linked to an increased risk of heart disease and death. However, a recent study published in the Archives of Internal Medicine (December 9-23, 2002) on over 5,600 middle aged men in Britain suggests that this is not entirely true.

The men were observed for over 20 years; there were almost 1000 deaths during that time, with about half from heart disease. The men with stable weight had the lowest mortality, but the men who had a steady weight gain over the study period had a similarly low death rate. Sustained weight loss and weight fluctuation were linked to increased mortality, but this was explained by unhealthy lifestyle or preexisting disease.

This study suggests that weight cycling does not affect risk of death and that our obsession with weight may not be justified if we are looking at mortality data. Being physically active, avoiding substance abuse and not having chronic health problems was more important than body weight in this study.

Last Updated: Feb, 2003.