Small switch could have large impact on weight

2/13/2012

Nurse practitioners at onsite clinics are able to offer advice to obese workers on ways that they can lose weight. Sometimes, it's good for people to start by making small changes and work their way up to major lifestyle alterations. For example, a recent study found that simply switching from sugary beverages to water or diet drinks can have a significant impact on a person's weight.

Scientists discovered that study participants who began drinking diet beverages or water lost four to five pounds. Although switching to water had more health benefits, the researchers noted that people who missed the sweet taste of sugary beverages were more likely to stay away from them if they drank diet soda, which gave them the taste without the sugar.

"Substituting specific foods or beverages that provide a substantial portion of daily calories may be a useful strategy for modest weight loss or weight gain prevention,"
said study author Deborah Tate, Ph.D. "Beverages may be ideal targets, but keep in mind, the strategy will only work if the person doesn’t make up for the lost calories some other way."

People who drank only water had lower glucose fasting levels and better hydration than the control group, suggesting that this may be the healthiest option.

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