Trying to lose weight is something most Americans can identify with. Two-thirds say they have made a serious effort to lose weight at least once in their life, including 25% saying they tried once or twice, 30% trying between 3 and 10 times, and 8% trying more than 10 times.
The 52% of all U.S. adults who say they have succeeded at losing weight at some point in their lives were more likely to credit dietary changes than exercise.
The top three diet-related tactics Americans said they used were eating less, counting calories/portion control, and eating more natural foods. In terms of those who relied on exercise, just working out in general was the most frequently mentioned form of activity.
Working out/exercising is the dominant exercise-related response, but 5% specifically credit walking and 3% running or jogging.
And, what are the most effective strategies for those losing weight?
31% – Worked out/exercised
23% – Ate Less/Dieted
12% – Counted calories/portion control
10% – Ate more natural foods
While I respect all of these methods, especially portion control, I have to wonder when “natural foods” will make it higher on the list?
To me it is the most important factor in weight gain/loss at it is the fuel you put in your body. It provides the energy to exercise, the desire to eat less, and the improved health that supports long-term weight loss.