Moderate Weight Loss: A Self-Directed Protocol for Women

Authors: SANTOSA, SYLVIA - MCGILL UNIVERSITY; DEMONTY, ISABELLE - MCGILL UNIVERSITY; Lichtenstein, Alice; JONES, PETER - MCGILL UNIVERSITY

Submitted to: Canadian Journal of Dietetic Practice and Research
Publication Type: Peer Reviewed Journal
Publication Acceptance Date: 7/1/2006
Publication Date: 4/1/2008
Citation: Santosa, S., Demonty, I., Lichtenstein, A.H., Jones, P.J. 2008. Moderate Weight Loss: A Self-Directed Protocol for Women. Canadian Journal of Dietetic Practice and Research. 69(1):23-7.

Interpretive Summary: This study was performed to examine the efficacy of a self-directed weight loss program on body weight. The program combined modifications in both food intake and physical activity. Forty-two hyperlipidemic overweight and obese women were recruited to participate in this twenty-four week weight study. The women’s ages ranged from 35-60 years and had body mass. Their body mass indices ranged from 28-39 kg/m2. Thirty-five women completed the weight loss program. Participants were taught how to reduce their caloric intake by 20% and increase their energy expenditure by 10%. The diet intervention was based on the U.S. Exchange System. The target goals were 50-60% of calories from carbohydrates, 20% of calories from protein, and 20-30% of calories from fat. Physical activity regiments were prescribed by a personal trainer. A star system was used for reinforcement and monthly group sessions were held to maintain subject motivation. Participants lost an average of 11.7+/-2.5 kg (P<0.001). The pattern of weight loss was linear (P<0.001) throughout the study period. Average weight loss per week was 0.59 +/- 0.55 kg. There was no significant relationship between age and weight loss (r = -0.180; P = 0.302), and initial weight and weight loss (r = -0.115; P = 0.509). A program combining both structured self-selected diet and independent pre-planned physical activity with a successful motivational strategy. It resulted in weight loss comparable to that observed in more controlled interventions. The lower cost, ease of use, and outcome success makes this approach a potential option for the clinical setting.

Technical Abstract: This study was performed to examine the efficacy of a self-directed diet and physical activity program as a method for weight loss in women. Forty-two hyperlipidemic overweight and obese women were recruited to participate in this twenty-four week weight intervention study. The women’s ages ranged from 35-60 years and had body mass indices between 28-39 kg/m2. Thirty-five women completed the intervention. The weight loss intervention consisted of a 20% decrease in energy intake through diet and a 10% increase in energy expenditure through physical activity. The diet intervention was based on the U.S. Exchange System and consisted of 50-60% carbohydrates, 20% protein, and 20-30% fat. Physical activity regiments were prescribed by a personal trainer. A star system and monthly group session was applied to maintain subject motivation throughout the weight loss period. Participants lost an average of 11.7+/-2.5 kg (P<0.001). The pattern of weight loss was linear (P<0.001) throughout the study period. Average weight loss per week was 0.59 +/- 0.55 kg. There was no significant relationship between age and weight loss (r = -0.180; P = 0.302), and initial weight and weight loss (r = -0.115; P = 0.509). A program combining both structured self-selected diet and independent pre-planned physical activity with a successful motivational strategy resulted in weight loss comparable to that observed in more controlled interventions. The lower cost, ease of use, and outcome success makes this approach a potential option for the clinical setting.