Journal article
Weight-loss strategies used by baby boomer men: a mixed methods approach
Journal of human nutrition and dietetics, Vol.29(2), pp.125-268
04/01/2016
PMID: 25722119
Web of Science ID: WOS:000372294100010
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Abstract
Background
Baby Boomer men (those born in 1946-1964) are becoming obese at an earlier age compared to previous generations. The present study aimed to identify weight-loss strategies used by Baby Boomer men, to determine whether those strategies varied by weight status and to explore their dieting experiences.
Methods
The study used a cross-sectional survey of 211 men and 20 in-depth interviews.
Results
Men had a mean (SD) body mass index (BMI) of 29.35 (5.07) kg m super(-2), with 82% being overweight or obese. Fifty-six percent were currently trying to lose weight. Healthy weight-loss strategies included reducing portions, increasing physical activity, cutting back on fried foods, cutting back on sweets, cutting back on alcohol, using meal replacement drinks/bars and joining a weight-loss programme. Unhealthy strategies included skipping meals and using over-the-counter 'diet pills'. Men who reduced portions, skipped meals, cut back on sweets, joined a weight-loss programme and used diet pills had significantly higher BMIs than men who said they did not (P < 0.05 for all). Interviews revealed that older men struggle to lose weight, 'I've been struggling for the last 2-3 years'. 'The last time I really tried to lose weight I stayed on the diet for just a day or two'. Wives were considered essential to their weight management success.
Conclusions
Men used a do-it-yourself weight-loss approach using both healthy and unhealthy strategies. Obese men were more likely to use unhealthy practices than overweight men.
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Details
- Title
- Weight-loss strategies used by baby boomer men
- Publication Details
- Journal of human nutrition and dietetics, Vol.29(2), pp.125-268
- Resource Type
- Journal article
- Publisher
- Wiley-Blackwell Publishing Ltd.
- Number of pages
- 8
- Copyright
- © 2015 The British Dietetic Association Ltd.
- Identifiers
- WOS:000372294100010; 99381467954006600
- Academic Unit
- Usha Kundu, MD College of Health; Movement Sciences and Health
- Language
- English