Weight Loss Cheat Sheet 2026

The 30 highest-yield Weight Loss facts, distilled from real exam questions. Print it, save it as a PDF, or study it here — free, no sign-up.

1. Which psychological state best predicts long-term weight loss success? → Intrinsic motivation driven by personal values
2. Which type of dietary fat is most associated with increased abdominal fat storage and cardiovascular disease risk? → Trans fat
3. Which type of beverage is strongly discouraged after bariatric surgery because it can stretch the stomach pouch? → Carbonated beverages
4. Which cognitive-behavioral strategy is most effective for identifying and changing negative thought patterns that lead to overeating? → Cognitive restructuring
5. What does 'Basal Metabolic Rate' (BMR) represent in the context of weight management? → The minimum calories needed to sustain basic body functions at rest
6. What is 'self-monitoring' in behavioral weight loss programs and why is it effective? → Tracking food intake, activity, and weight regularly to maintain awareness
7. Which factor most commonly causes people to relapse to earlier stages of the Transtheoretical Model during weight loss? → Unmanaged stress and emotional triggers
8. Which of the following is NOT a standard requirement before qualifying for bariatric surgery? → Minimum age of 30 years
9. What is the primary reason walking is often recommended as a starting exercise for overweight individuals in the US? → It is low-impact, accessible, and sustainable long-term
10. Which bariatric procedure is considered fully reversible? → Adjustable gastric band
11. True/False: I've come to terms with the notion that in order to succeed, I must make long-term, not short-term, modifications to my diet and exercise routine. → True
12. Which psychological phenomenon causes people to underestimate how many calories they consume when portions are large? → Unit bias and portion size distortion
13. Which activity has the lowest impact on joints while still providing significant cardiovascular and calorie-burning benefits for overweight individuals? → Swimming or water aerobics
14. What does the glycemic index (GI) measure in relation to weight loss? → How quickly a food raises blood sugar
15. What is the primary purpose of the psychological evaluation required before bariatric surgery? → To assess mental health, readiness, and identify potential barriers to success
16. Which of the following past experiences is MOST likely to negatively affect a person's readiness to attempt weight loss again? → A history of repeated diet failures and weight regain
17. False or True. Never eat a meal after 8 o'clock in the evening if you want to lose weight or keep it off. → False
18. Which hormone produced by the pancreas plays a central role in regulating fat storage and is elevated in response to carbohydrate-rich meals? → Insulin
19. Which habit is most effective for reducing late-night snacking? → Establishing a consistent bedtime routine and closing the kitchen after dinner
20. What minimum percentage of body weight loss is considered clinically significant for improving obesity-related health conditions? → 5–10%
21. What does the concept of 'energy balance' mean in weight management? → The relationship between calories consumed and calories burned
22. Which dietary pattern is characterized by high intake of fruits, vegetables, whole grains, legumes, and olive oil, and is associated with sustained weight loss? → Mediterranean diet
23. What is the minimum BMI that qualifies a patient for bariatric surgery without any obesity-related comorbidities? → 40 or higher
24. What BMI threshold typically qualifies a patient for bariatric surgery evaluation in the United States? → BMI ≥ 35 with comorbidities or BMI ≥ 40
25. If you eat a high-calorie meal at lunch, what is the most effective behavioral strategy for the rest of the day? → Return to normal healthy eating at the next meal without guilt
26. I've given a lot of attention to how I behave when it comes to eating and exercising. → True
27. What is the primary mechanism by which Roux-en-Y gastric bypass promotes weight loss? → Both restriction and malabsorption
28. Which short-term goal structure best supports weight loss readiness and early adherence? → Commit to eating one more vegetable serving daily for two weeks
29. Which vitamin deficiency is commonly associated with obesity and metabolic dysfunction in the US population? → Vitamin D
30. When does weight regain typically begin for bariatric surgery patients? → Around 18–24 months after surgery