Studies show that what proportion of people who go on diets and lose weight will regain more weight than they lost?

Research indicates that a significant percentage of individuals who engage in dieting and successfully lose weight ultimately experience weight regain, frequently exceeding the original amount lost. Specifically, studies have shown that about two-thirds of people will regain more weight than they initially lost. This phenomenon can be attributed to a variety of biological and psychological factors, including metabolic adaptations, changes in hunger hormones, and the potential for disordered eating behaviors that often accompany restrictive dieting.

The understanding of this statistic is critical for those trained in intuitive eating, as it highlights the ineffectiveness of traditional dieting practices. Instead of focusing on weight loss, intuitive eating promotes a more holistic approach to health that respects the body's natural cues and encourages a balanced relationship with food. Recognizing that the majority of dieters tend to regain more weight than lost reinforces the importance of supporting individuals in developing sustainable and healthy eating habits rather than short-term weight loss goals.