Waistlines continue to grow with 55 percent of the American adult population now overweight, according to recent government statistics. The federal government has declared an obesity epidemic. However, a new national survey reveals that some Americans are losing weight successfully.

The survey, recently released by the Calorie Control Council, reveals that one-fourth of the population is currently on a diet and another 47 percent are making a conscious effort to control their weight. This means that more than 124 million Americans (over the age of 18) are trying to either lose or control their weight. And with some success — almost two-thirds of dieters have lost at least ten pounds in recent months. The Council, a non-profit trade association, has tracked dieting trends for over 20 years.

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So what are the secrets of these successful dieters? Men and women alike feel that in order to watch their weight they need to pay attention to both fat and calories. Additionally, the top five most popular ways of losing and controlling weight are:

  • Exercise
  • Cut down on foods high in fat and sugar
  • Use reduced-fat and sugar-free foods and beverages
  • Eat smaller portions of favorite foods
  • Combine calorie reduction with exercise

Although most overweight individuals acknowledge they need to lose the weight, they are also aware of the obstacles that thwart their efforts to maintain this weight loss. The number one reason according to the study, is not exercising enough (50 percent gave this reason). Other obstacles included not enough self-discipline (36 percent), splurging on favorite foods (36 percent) and snacking too much (33 percent). Frequently overeating at mealtime (26 percent) and having trouble eating properly at restaurants (23 percent) also seem to stand in the way of weight loss success.

It seems that Americans are getting the message — short-term diets do not work, but making long-term lifestyle commitments to better eating and regular physical activity do result in successful weight loss. Americans also are realizing that restrictive diets, diet pills, crash diets and fasting are counterproductive. These weight management methods were used the least, the survey revealed.

“The survey confirms that successful weight loss means adopting sensible behaviors,” said Lyn O’Brien Nabors, executive vice president of the Calorie Control Council. Pills, fad diets and cutting out certain foods and food groups just aren’t working — and consumers are finally understanding this. To lose pounds, you’ve basically got to lighten up and also get moving.”

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The 2000 survey findings are based on a nationally projectable sample of 1,200 Americans age 18 and older. The sample reliability is 2.8 percent. The survey was completed in July 2000 by Booth Research Services, Inc., for the Calorie Control Council, a non-profit international association of manufacturers of low-calorie, reduced-fat and light foods and beverages. For more information, visit http://www.caloriecontrol.org.