Australians who shed significant weight report broader gains in health, wellbeing and household budgets, according to new survey findings from CSIRO, the national science agency.
In a poll of 1,300 past and present members of the CSIRO Total Wellbeing Diet, nearly nine in 10 people who lost more than 15kg said their health, wellbeing and energy improved. Those who lost more weight were more likely to report bigger quality-of-life gains overall. Among participants who lost at least 5kg, 72 per cent reported better health and greater satisfaction with life after their weight-loss success.
Additional benefits commonly cited included higher energy, improved body image and mobility, greater self-confidence and vitality, and better mood.
Lead researcher Dr Gilly Hendrie said the findings highlight the holistic impact of weight loss on people’s lives.
“This study shows that weight loss can deliver so much more than a number on a scale,” Dr Hendrie said.
“It has the power to transform how people feel, move, live, and even how they spend. The flow-on effect of improved health, mood, and confidence can change someone’s whole outlook on life.”
Among members living with obesity, 87 per cent also reported at least one chronic health condition, with many saying management improved as their weight fell. CSIRO said:
– 64 per cent of members with type 2 diabetes reported an improvement, with 12 per cent saying they no longer had the condition
– 40 per cent reported improvements in mental health, blood pressure and cholesterol
– 32 per cent of those managing a chronic condition reported reduced reliance on medication and associated costs
– 30 per cent reported improvements in chronic pain, osteoporosis, sleep apnoea and arthritis
The survey also pointed to a shift in monthly spending, with respondents reporting they spent about $315 less on convenience snacks, takeaway, dining out and alcohol, and around $325 more on groceries and physical exercise.
“What’s really exciting is seeing how weight loss influences everyday choices, from eating better and getting more active, to investing more on healthier habits,” Dr Hendrie said.
“It’s a reflection of a lifestyle shift, not just a short-term diet and shows that choosing a healthier lifestyle doesn’t have to cost more, it just means spending differently.
“With current estimates putting two in three Australian adults as being overweight or obese, we have so much to gain as a population from supporting Australians to eat well and live fuller lives.”
The findings are based on self-reported outcomes from participants in the CSIRO Total Wellbeing Diet programme and reflect associations rather than clinical cause and effect. CSIRO has made a summary of the analysis, an infographic, interview grabs and b-roll, and case studies available for media.
