Overview
- A 121-study analysis reported by the BMJ finds most popular diets deliver only short-term loss with frequent long-term regain, including yo-yo effects.
- Stiftung Warentest evaluated 15 concepts and highlights five promising approaches: Mediterranean, vegetarian, DGE-guided mixed diet, intermittent fasting, and moderate low-carb with reservations.
- Researchers point to social eating patterns and leptin resistance as common reasons restrictive plans fail to curb appetite and sustain weight loss.
- Highly processed foods account for about 39% of intake in Germany and more than 50% in the United States, a design-driven appeal that undermines appetite control.
- GLP-1–type injections often lead to 15–20% weight loss but studies show regain after stopping, while a Kiel team is developing a metabolic test to tailor therapies.