Research links 8,500 daily steps to preventing weight regain after dieting

12 articles · Updated · The Independent · May 9

Presented in Istanbul, the analysis of 14 studies covering 3,758 overweight or obese adults found lifestyle groups raised walking to about 8,454 steps and lost roughly 4kg.
By the maintenance phase, participants still averaged 8,241 steps a day and kept off most of the weight, while comparison groups that only dieted or had no treatment showed no step increase.
Researchers from Italy and Lebanon said calorie reduction drove initial loss, but sustained walking was key to limiting regain, a major issue as about 80% regain weight within three to five years.

With new weight-loss drugs, does maintaining 8,500 daily steps become the most critical factor for lasting success?

With government support for obesity drugs faltering, is a simple walking goal our most realistic public health strategy?