The study, published in the journal Obesity, found internal factors -- such as "when I feel lonely, I console myself by eating"-- predicted weight change over time above and beyond other psychological issues including depression, binge eating and perceived stress. External factors such as social cues did not predict weight loss or regain of weight.

"Our results suggest that we need to pay more attention to eating triggered by emotions or thoughts as they clearly play a significant role in weight loss. Current treatments provide minimal assistance with eating in response to feelings or thoughts," lead study author Heather Niemeier, of the Miriam Hospital and of Brown University, said in a statement.

"Modifying our treatments to address these triggers for unhealthy eating and helping patients learn alternative strategies could improve their ability to maintain weight loss behaviors, even in the face of affective and cognitive difficulties."

Niemier points out those in behavioral weight loss programs lose an average of 10 percent of their body weight and these losses are associated with significant health benefits, but the majority return to baseline weights within three to five years.