A person's motivational levels play an important role in helping them stick to weight loss programs, according to reports in the latest version of Journal of Nutrition Education and Behavior.

Researchers found a close link between motivation and weight loss. These findings were part of a 16-week online study related to weight loss. Participants of this study had to fill up a questionnaire mentioning their food intake, exercise and body weight every week. The data was collected at a period of 4,8,12 and 16 weeks.

The study found that more than half of the participants lost 5% of their body weight at the end of 16 weeks. Figures revealed that people having high levels of motivation were able to maintain their weight loss resolutions better. Those who lacked motivation fared poorly in these findings and could not stick to their resolutions.

A person's motivational levels had a direct impact on his weight loss performance. It was also found that the time period between 4 to 8 weeks was very crucial for people aiming to decrease their weight. These subjects also took the help of motivators through e-mails, phone calls and direct interaction.

These findings assume significance as more than two thirds of American people fall under overweight or obese category. Health experts also feel that a person's motivational levels play a critical role in maintaining his weight loss goals.