Consuming the same dishes contributes to effective weight loss.
Regular consumption of the same dishes may contribute to more effective weight loss — this conclusion was reached by scientists from Drexel University. The results of the study were published in the journal Health Psychology (HP).
The study involved 112 individuals with overweight and obesity who were undergoing a weight loss program. Analysis of food diaries showed that participants who adhered to a repetitive diet and stable caloric intake lost an average of 5.9 percent of their body weight over 12 weeks. Those with a more varied diet experienced a reduction of about 4.3 percent.
The authors explain the effect by stating that a monotonous diet reduces the burden of decision-making. In situations where a person constantly has to choose what to eat, the risk of deviating from the diet increases. Repeated dishes, on the other hand, make eating more predictable and simplify calorie control.
At the same time, the researchers emphasize that dietary variety remains important for overall health, and the results obtained do not yet allow for definitive conclusions. Nevertheless, the work shows that in the context of the modern food environment, simple and repetitive eating habits can facilitate adherence to a diet and promote weight loss.