A Pilot Internet‐Based Behavioral Weight Loss Intervention with or without Commercially Available Portion‐Controlled Foods. (2nd July 2013) - Webber, Kelly H.
Abstract : Objective : To evaluate the short‐term impact of portion‐controlled food provision in combination with an Internet behavioral weight loss program on weight, blood cholesterol, and blood glucose levels. Design and Methods : Fifty participants, mean age 46 ± 10.7 years and mean body mass index 35.1 ± 3.8 kg/m 2, were randomized to one of two study groups, an Internet behavioral weight loss program (Internet‐alone; n = 25) or an Internet behavioral weight loss program plus a commercially available portion‐controlled diet (Internet + PCD; n = 25) for 12 weeks. Results : An intent‐to‐treat analysis found that the mean weight change in the Internet + PCD group was −5.7 ± 5.6 kg and in the Internet‐alone group ( n = 25) was −4.1 ± 4.0 kg ( P = 0.26). Participants in the Internet + PCD group achieved significantly greater improvements in blood glucose (−2.6 ± 5.7 vs. 1.4 ± 11.0 mg/dl; P = 0.05) and LDL cholesterol (−8.2 ± 18.0 vs. −0.6 ± 21.0 mg/dl; P = 0.04), compared with Internet‐alone group. Conclusions : These data suggest that there may be short‐term clinical benefit in using a PCD in conjunction with a behavioral Internet‐based weight loss program to enhance weight loss and improve health indicators.