TOPS Comments on Weight-Loss Findings — Support Is Key

MILWAUKEE, WI – Recent findings published in the “Annals of Internal Medicine” indicate that weight loss success can be achieved by following either a low-fat or low-carbohydrate diet in combination with behavioral changes in lifestyle — such as participation in interactive weekly chapter meetings from TOPS Club, Inc. (Take Off Pounds Sensibly), the nonprofit weight-loss support organization.

Based on a federally-funded study of more than 300 obese adults, researchers compared weight loss after two years on a low-carbohydrate diet versus a low-fat diet in tandem with an education program on altering physical activity and other lifestyle factors.  All attended regular group sessions designed to reinforce healthy habits, such as setting reasonable goals, increasing physical activity, and food journaling — major components of TOPS’ weight-loss philosophy.  At the end of the study, there was no major difference between the diet groups except a greater improvement in HDL, or “good” cholesterol, in those who followed the low-carbohydrate plan.

“It is possible that people could lose more weight if diet is combined with such a [behavorial] program,” said Gary Foster, Ph.D., director of Temple University’s Center for Obesity Research and Education (CORE) in Philadelphia and the study’s leader.

In an interview with The Associated Press, he noted, “Dieters should be less concerned about which diet to follow and instead focus on finding the support or technique — like writing down what they eat — that keeps them on track.  It doesn’t make a difference for weight loss how you get there.”

TOPS recently celebrated 62 years of weight-loss success and focuses on education and support.  Members of TOPS embrace its philosophy of healthy eating, regular exercise, wellness education, and support from others at weekly chapter meetings - paralleled in the study’s research methods.  TOPS encourages meal planning, portion control, moderate exercise, and keeping a food diary as just a few of the tools for successful weight loss and weight management.  

“We are pleased that the findings of this landmark study coincide with the principles of TOPS and encourage dieters to seek out a regular support system in combination with well-balanced meal planning and physical activity,” said Barbara Cady, TOPS President.  “Not only do we teach members how to make healthy lifestyle choices, the TOPS chapter environment provides the encouragement and motivation members need to sustain these choices.  Support can truly be instrumental is helping people stay focused on their goal of better health, no matter what type of eating plan they choose to follow.”

TOPS Club Inc. (Take Off Pounds Sensibly), the original, nonprofit weight-loss support and wellness education organization, was established more than 62 years ago to champion weight-loss support and success.  Founded and headquartered in Milwaukee, Wisconsin, TOPS promotes successful, affordable weight management with a philosophy that combines healthy eating, regular exercise, wellness information, and support from others at weekly chapter meetings. TOPS has about 170,000 members in nearly 10,000 chapters throughout the United States and Canada.

Visitors are welcome to attend their first TOPS meeting free of charge. To find a local chapter, view www.tops.org or call (800) 932-8677.