CD-ROM nutrient analysis database assists self-monitoring behavior of active duty Air Force personnel receiving nutrition counseling for weight loss.
This study observed the effect of using a computerized vs manual method of self-monitoring among Air Force personnel receiving nutrition counseling for weight loss. Subjects who enrolled during the first 2 weeks of the 4-week recruitment period completed food records for 6 weeks using a CD-ROM nutrient database (intervention group) whereas those who enrolled during the last 2 weeks used a food record booklet (comparison group). Of the 42 subjects (n = 23 intervention group and n = 19 comparison group), only 113 intervention and 11 comparison group subjects (57% of study enrollees) submitted at least 1 food record during the study and were included in the analysis, which included review of pre- and poststudy questionnaires, food records, and focus group data. There were no significant differences between the number of days per week documented or average number of items recorded daily. All 9 intervention as compared to 2 comparison group subjects who completed a poststudy questionnaire searched for lower-energy and lower-fat items and reported changing their dietary intake as a result. All intervention group subjects who participated in a focus group (n=6) had favorable comments about using the CD-ROM for monitoring and changing eating habits, indicating that it is a beneficial self-monitoring tool. Participants enjoyed the immediate dietary feedback, and computerized food records may be easier to interpret by nutrition counselors. A number of computerized nutrient databases are available to assist patients and consumers in managing nutritional concerns.
Heetderks-Cox
M J
MJ
Department of Nutrition and Food Sciences, Texas Woman's University, Denton, USA.
Alford
B B
BB
Bednar
C M
CM
Heiss
C J
CJ
Tauai
L A
LA
Edgren
K K
KK
D000328:Adult; D016251:CD-ROM; D003201:Computers; D016208:Databases, Factual; D015930:Diet Records; D005260:Female; D017144:Focus Groups; D005504:Food Analysis / Q000295:instrumentation / Q000379:methods*; D006801:Humans; D008297:Male; D008889:Military Personnel / Q000193:education; D052756:Nutritional Sciences / Q000193:education*; D009765:Obesity / Q000178:diet therapy*; D010349:Patient Compliance; D010353:Patient Education as Topic; D011795:Surveys and Questionnaires; D014481:United States; D015431:Weight Loss