University of York's weight loss research shows that if you don't succeed in the beginning, try again

It's all too common for those trying to lose weight to bounce back as soon as they finish their diet (often described as an individual's failure, indicating a lack of willpower and self-discipline), but a new study by academics at the University of York's School of Health found that this regression is a learning experience — and may even be a necessary step
toward sustained weight loss and improved overall health.

The link between a history of weight loss and weight loss achieved in clinical obesity management, published in the October issue of the journal Obesity, summarizes a study
involving 9,348 patients from Wharton Medical Clinic, a weight loss and diabetes clinic in Burlington, Ontario.

The researchers collected each participant's weight loss history through questionnaires and assessed their weight changes
during the study.

For women (as opposed to men), the sooner overweight status and the sooner cumulative weight loss are associated
with modest weight loss in the clinic.

And, for both women and men, the more often they used to lose weight, the better
the effect of losing weight in the clinic.

The study also shows that long-term success often requires multiple attempts
using different methods.

Dr.

Wharton added: "For any lifestyle or behavioral change, a personalized approach – that is, practicing and improving strategies that are effective for the individual in the long term – is a key concept, and long-term weight management should not be different
.