There is increasing research to show that in the long term diets do not work. Findings of research performed at the University of California (UCLA) report in the Guardian Unlimited April 2007 (Appendix A) states although dieters loose weigh initially within 5 years a majority of dieters have regained their initial weigh (pre diet) and some have even gained more weight. As a result it is concluded that most people would have been better off making small substantial lifestyle changes.
Evidence also suggests that Yo Yo dieting is linked with Cardiovascular disease, strokes, diabetes and altered immune functions as reported Traci Mann April 2007
Statistics on Obesity
The Department of Health National Statistics reports obesity is increasing in England. Trends show that between the year 1994 and 2002 the percentage of adult females categorised as being clinically obese (Body Mass Index of over 30kg/m square) has increased from 17 to 23% and adult males from 15% to 23%. Children are showing similar trends.
Financial Implications
In addition to many factors, Obesity is a large threat to the NHS having sufficient funds to cope. (BBC News 24. Sept 2007).It predicts that 33% of men and 28% of women will be clinically obese by 2010 and 58% of type 2 diabetes and 21% heart disease cases costing the NHS £1bn per year. As a result the Dept of health agrees national productivity and lifestyle must improve which requires above inflation growth.
Data Collection and Observation
Over 3 years, Alison Tynan has collated data from 192 current and ex Personal Training clients. 181 (95%) of these clients had sought professional advice with her AFTER their current diet and activity had not created the desired results. 179 of these admitted to attending a slimming club or have had a restricted food intake by limiting the type of food they consumed, counting the calories in food or missing meals regularly. 82 (43%) of these agreed that their weight, BMI and Body Fat percentage is now higher than it was before they began to diet. (Nov 2007) It was also apparent that all of the 181 clients were unclear of the correct amount of activity to do to meet the British heart Foundation and American College of Sports Medicine Guidelines (ACSM) of 5 x 30 mins per week, moderate intensity exercise.
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