Weight reduction and seasonal variation
Zahorska-Markiewicz, B.
International Journal of Obesity 4(2): 139-143
1980
ISSN/ISBN: 0307-0565 PMID: 7399804 Document Number: 159875
Weight loss was season-dependent in a group of 146 obese women who participated in a clinical weight reduction program. During a clinical treatment period of 14-48 days, dietary intake in these patients was restricted. Greatest weight loss was observed in all patients in the spring, with lowest individual weight loss occurring in winter. Weight loss was also more marked in summer than in autumn or winter. Physical activity, ambient temperature and the low-calorie diet were similar for all seasons. These findings suggest, therefore, that circannual rhythms of thermogenesis in humans have some influence on obesity, and motivation and body image play a role in its successful treatment.