Introduction & Theoretical Background
Weight control is a significant health concern, with over two thirds of adults in the United States classified as overweight or obese. Obesity increases the risk of heart disease, diabetes, cancer, and reduced quality of life. Even a modest 5% weight loss can improve health markers like blood pressure, glycemic control, and cholesterol levels (Goldstein, 1992). However, sustaining weight loss is difficult. While diet programs can lead to short-term results (3–6% weight loss at 12 months; Tsai & Wadden, 2005), fewer than 20% of participants maintain a 10% weight loss after one year. The modern environment, filled with calorie-dense foods and sedentary habits, makes lasting weight control particularly challenging.
Cognitive-behavioral treatments (CBTs) for weight loss focus on calorie tracking, portion control, and exercise planning, offering important tools for weight management. However, these methods often fall short because they don’t address the psychological and emotional drivers of eating behavior. Many individuals struggle