Fat chance of shedding the pounds if you're too happy

Published on Sunday 27 September 2009 23:25

BEING too optimistic may hamper attempts to lose weight, a study suggested.

People who are "happy and fat" tend to respond less well to slimming programmes, said psychologists.

The findings indicate that a little negativity might benefit slimmers by leading them to worry more about their health and appearance.

Researchers in Japan conducted psychological profiles of 101 obese men and women undergoing counselling, nutrition and exercise therapy. Patients were asked to fill in personality questionnaires before and after the six-month course.

The study found that optimism and self-orientation characteristics improved for most patients during the programme.

Those who became more self aware through counselling were more likely to lose weight than those who did not.

But the research also found that people with a happy-go-lucky bright outlook at the start of the therapy were less likely to succeed.

Successful weight loss was associated with a more responsible and cautious ego state.