title: Computer-assisted dieting: effects of a randomised controlled intervention.
abstract: In this pilot study, the effects of two computer-assisted dieting (CAD) interventions on weight loss and blood chemistry were examined among overweight and obese adults. Participants (91 community members, average age 42.6 years) were randomly assigned to CAD-only (a single-session introduction and provision of a dieting software, n = 30), CAD plus an additional four-session self-management group training (CAD+G, n = 31) and a waitlist control group whose members were randomised into the two interventions at the 3-month follow-up (n = 30). A three (group)-by-two (time) repeated measures ANOVA revealed no significant group by time interaction during the initial 3-month period. However, the two intervention groups combined showed a significant, though moderate weight loss relative to the control group. Further, although a general improvement was found with regard to the lipid panel results during the first 3 months of the trial, the treatment by time interaction was not significant. A comparison of the developments in the two intervention groups during the 3- to 6-month follow-up time period revealed a tendency towards greater weight regain in the CAD-only condition. The evidence suggests that CAD supports initial weight loss; however, additional self-management training might be necessary to support maintenance.
authors.affiliation: Department of Psychology, Utah State University, Logan, UT 84322-2810, USA. kerstin.schroder@usu.edu
authors.forename: Kerstin E E
authors.initials: KE
authors.lastname: Schroder
mesh_terms: D000328:Adult; D000368:Aged; D003201:Computers; D004038:Diet, Reducing / Q000379:methods*; D002149:Energy Intake; D005260:Female; D005500:Follow-Up Studies; D006801:Humans; D008297:Male; D008875:Middle Aged; D009765:Obesity / Q000097:blood / Q000178:diet therapy*; D010865:Pilot Projects; D012648:Self Care; D016037:Single-Blind Method; D012959:Socioeconomic Factors; D012984:Software; D013813:Therapy, Computer-Assisted; D014584:User-Computer Interface; D015431:Weight Loss; D055815:Young Adult