Background  

Epidemiological findings suggest that weight fluctuations are associated with unfavorable health outcomes compared with stable weight. However, the interrelationship between the weight cycling history and dieting status in a non-clinical male trial on the risk for bio-behavioral health is unclear.

Objective  

The purpose of this study was to examine the relation between weight cycling history as a result of intentional weight loss and bio-behavioral health in Japanese adult males.

Method  

A cross-sectional study was performed on a group of 146 Japanese working males (47.5±9.3 yr.). Each subject completed a series of self-reported questionnaires in which information about weight cycling history, current dieting practices, life-styles, and social background were assessed. Results of the physical check up were used to assess biological parameters. Self-reported weight cycling was defined as intentionally losing 10% of one's weight and regaining the lost weight.

Results  

Cyclers reported a significantly greater incidence of current dieting and recent weight gain compared with non-cyclers. Taking regular meals, eating breakfast everyday, and not eating snacks between meals every day were significantly less frequent among cyclers compared with non-cyclers after controlling for BMI. The adjusted odds ratio for AST abnormality was 5.46 (95% CI: 1.08–27.67), ALT abnormality was 3.31 (95% CI: 1.24–8.78), and γ-GTP was 3.38 (95% CI: 1.07–10.67) among cyclers, compared with noncyclers.

Conclusion  

These findings suggest that a history of weight cycling in men, regardless of current weight status, is associated with adverse bio-behavioral health. The risk for several liver enzyme abnormalities associated with weight cycling history was substantial, independent of relative body weight and lifestyle factors.