[fgummett]

Weight-loss diary helpful in shedding pounds: study

It won't burn many calories on its own, but if you're looking to lose weight, the most important exercise you can do is to pick up a pen and write.

That's according to a new U.S. study that finds dieters can increase their weight loss twofold by simply keeping a daily diary of what they eat.

The 20-week study was part of a three-year research program that involved some 1,700 overweight people who were placed on fruit- and vegetable-rich diets.

It showed that people who kept no daily food records lost an average of nearly 4.1 kilograms, or nine pounds, while those who kept six or more per week lost an average of just under 8.1 kilograms, about 18 pounds.

The study also found that people who shared their weight-loss experiences with others were more successful.

The study will be published in the August edition of the American Journal of Preventive Medicine.

Not exactly earth-shattering news but it does bear out a couple of the most frequently advised tactics here on DF


Check out the comments posted below the linked story... here is my favourite:

Dear Diary;
This Nutri System diet has some great food, but it's just not giving me enough to eat. I'm starving!!!!!


Dear Diary;
Still starving on the Nutri System diet. Today I signed up for a second Nutri System Diet so I can get enough to eat. I am also hoping to lose those 40 pounds in half the time!!

[Evermont]

My bootcamp (exercise class) instructor, a "master trainer", pointed out more than once that a food log was one the two most effective tools for weight loss.

This guy is 61 years old. Here he is getting his butt kicked on YouTUBE (link)

and a photo:

This guy knows what he's talking about!

[princesslinda]

Anything that encourages accountability helps! I find if I know i'm going to have to write it down, it keeps me honest.

[Alice]

Plus, writing the true portion size down. Logging is a big part of Weight Watchers...the one step I need to get back in my day.