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PHILADELPHIA, Dec 28, 2004 (United Press International via COMTEX) -- The most popular diets in America fall short when it comes to proving that people keep off the pounds they lose, a study concludes.
The study by the University of Pennsylvania, reported in the Annals of Internal Medicine, said only Weight Watchers documented results for those using the calorie-counting program. Thomas Wadden, a weight-loss expert who took part in the study, told the New York Daily News the same applies to health clubs.
"There are no data on weight loss when you go to a health club, either," Wadden said.
A spokesman for Jenny Craig of Carlsbad, Calif., said the company soon will start a scientific study of the size and kind called for by the researchers.
Researchers also said there is not enough evidence to prove effectiveness of self-help programs such as Overeaters Anonymous and Take Off Pounds Sensibly or even doctor-supervised diets such as Optifast and Health Management Resources.
Copyright 2004 by United Press International.
