An evaluation of the effect of two levels of dietary counseling on body fat and weight loss in a weight reduction program using behavior modification techniques

Abstract

This study investigated the relative effectiveness of two group approaches to weight control, one which used a standardized diet with recipes (Redbook Wise Woman's Diet) and the other with an individualized exchange diet and one individual dietary counseling session with the investigator. Except for the dietary component, the two groups had eight identical weekly program outlines. Both groups were compared to a control group receiving standard out-patient treatment approach of one individualized dietary counseling session followed by weekly weigh-ins. There was no significant difference between treatment groups using either change in body weight or change in triceps skinfold measurements as the variable, at either the end of the treatment or at follow-up.

This study also looked at eight of the Adjective Check List (ACL) Scales (defensiveness, self-confidence, personal adjustment, interception, heterosexuality, change, abasement and counseling readiness) as a means of predicting successful weight loss (more than five pounds) and the likelihood of completing the program. Participants who lost more than five pounds scored significantly lower on the change scale (p< .05) of their initial ACL questionnaire. Participants who dropped out of treatment scored significantly higher on the self-confidence (p<.05) and counseling readiness (p<.05) scales.

Finally, this study evaluated changes in dietary intake before and after treatment. At the end of treatment, dietary intake of total kilocalories and percent of calories consumed as fat both significantly decreased, while the percentage of calories consumed as protein increased significantly.