Most Australian women surveyed in a new study were overweight or obese, and many were using some kind of diet or weight-loss aid to try to lose excess pounds.

Two thirds of the 506 women aged 15 or more were overweight based on their height and weight (BMI), with four in ten (39 per cent) obese, according to the online survey carried out by global market research firm, TNS.

Two thirds were also trying to lose weight, primarily focusing on reducing the amount of fatty foods they eat, snacking less and exercising, said Tania Kullmann, TNS general manager.

Find out what percent of Australian women are on the South Beach Diet plan at http://www.nutraingredients.com/news/ng.asp?n=63472-overweight-obesity-australia.