Changes in the Prevalence of U.S. Adults Dieting and Exercising for Weight Loss between 1999-2016

This study was conducted to evaluate: 1) changes in the proportion of men and women with and without obesity engaging in different weight loss methods over time; and 2) sex and obesity differences in these weight loss methods over time. Data from the National Health and Examination Survey (NHANES Continuous 1999-2016) was used. Over time, there was no change in the prevalence of individuals using prescription weight loss pills (p=0.70) and a reduction in the prevalence of individuals reducing fat intake (p<.0001) or using diet products (<.0001) for weight loss. Further, there was a greater proportion of women with obesity partaking in exercise for weight loss over time (p=0.0006), with no changes in the prevalence of exercise for the rest of the population (p>0.05). Reasons for these changes in weight loss practices over time are unclear. This study can convey individuals current weight loss practices to researchers and public health professionals.