Long-term weight loss was associated with a decreased intake of meat, cheese, and sweets and an increased intake of fruits and vegetables, according to a new study in the Journal of the Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics. Researchers studied 481 overweight and obese postmenopausal women from the Women on the Move through Activity and Nutrition Study in Pennsylvania. The women who received counseling specifically on how to consume less total fat, saturated fat, and cholesterol and how to eat more fiber saw the most long-term weight loss. Long-term weight loss is associated with decreased risk for chronic diseases including heart disease, type 2 diabetes, and cancer.

Gibbs BB, Kinzel LS, Gabriel KP, Chang YF; Kuller LH. Short- and long-term eating habit modification predicts weight change in overweight, postmenopausal women: results from the WOMAN Study. J Acad Nutr Diet. 2012;112:1347-1355.

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