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6h ago

Study Finds Including Craved Foods in Diets Reduces Cravings and Sustains Weight Loss

University of Illinois research challenges restrictive dieting norms, showing that small portions of desired foods can aid weight management and debunk longstanding theories on cravings.

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This study finds that those who occasionally incorporate cravings into their diet in moderation have better long-term weight loss results. (Tyshchenko Photography/Shutterstock)

Overview

  • The 24-month study found participants lost an average of 7.9% of body weight during a 12-month weight-loss phase, maintaining a 6.7% loss over the following year.
  • Cravings decreased significantly during weight loss and remained low during maintenance, correlating with reduced body fat rather than calorie deficits.
  • The study debunks the 'hungry fat cell theory,' which suggested energy-deprived fat cells trigger cravings leading to weight regain.
  • Using the online EMPOWER program, participants incorporated small portions of craved foods into balanced meals, supported by 22 nutrition education sessions and a food visualization tool.
  • Consistency in meal timing and portion sizes was key to managing cravings, challenging the notion that willpower alone drives weight loss success.