AMES, Iowa -- Recent research indicates that severely obese individuals losing significant amounts of weight through diet and exercise are just as successful keeping the weight off as those who have lost weight through bariatric surgery, according to a study in the International Journal of Obesity.

“The battle of the bulge continues in Iowa and throughout the nation,” said Ruth Litchfield, Iowa State University Extension nutrition specialist. “This research suggests it is possible to maintain large weight losses through intensive behavioral efforts, such as changing your approach to eating and exercise.”

Iowa joined ranks with 19 other states in 2006 with more than 25 percent of the adult population being classified as obese; two states had more than 30 percent of the adult population classified as obese. In 2007 those numbers increased to 27 states with more than 25 percent and three states with more than 30 percent of the adult population classified as obese.

The reported research matched each surgical patient with two non-surgical patients through the National Weight Control Registry. Average weight loss among all participants (315 total) was 124 lbs, which had been maintained for an average of 5.5 years at the beginning of the study. There were no significant differences in the caloric intake or the amount of weight regain between the surgical and non-surgical groups. However, non-surgical patients reported more healthful eating and physical activity behaviors, and less stress and depression.

Iowans have the opportunity to develop better habits for overall health and weight maintenance in 2009 through the Live Healthy Iowa program (formerly known as Lighten Up Iowa). More importantly, the program promotes peer and environmental support through teams, Litchfield said.

“One of the best ways Iowans can help fight the obesity epidemic is by joining with friends or co-workers in forming a Live Healthy Iowa team,” the nutrition specialist said. “Research has repeatedly shown that group support plays a vital role in the success of weight management programs. The materials and activities offered through Live Healthy Iowa are designed to promote sound nutrition and encourage physical activity.”

The 2009 Live Healthy Iowa program begins Jan. 14. For more information or to register visit www.LiveHealthyIowa.org. Live Healthy Iowa is a partnership of the Iowa Department of Education, Iowa Games and Iowa State University Extension.

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