Worksite Intervention for Weight Control: A Review of the Literature

1996 ◽  
Vol 10 (6) ◽  
pp. 471-498 ◽  
Author(s):  
Deborah J. Hennrikus ◽  
Robert W. Jeffery
Keyword(s):  
Weight Loss ◽  
Weight Control ◽  
Participation Rate ◽  
Health Impact ◽  
Future Research ◽  
Obesity Prevalence ◽  
Control Programs ◽  
Sustained Weight Loss ◽  
Worksite Health ◽  
Social Units

Purpose. Published research on worksite weight-control programs is reviewed with the objective of assessing success in (1) reaching populations in need, (2) achieving sustained weight loss, and (3) improving employee health and productivity. Search method. Reviewed are 44 data-based articles published between 1968 and 1994. The initial search was part of a larger review on the health impact of worksite health promotion programs conducted by Centers for Disease Control and described in the introduction to this issue. We supplemented the resulting list with articles found in a search of our own reference files. Important findings. Methodologically the literature is relatively weak, consisting largely of uncontrolled case studies. Worksite interventions appear to be successful in reaching large numbers of people: the median participation rate among overweight employees was 39% in the six studies that provided this type of information. Worksite programs produced reasonable short-term weight loss: typically 1 to 2 pounds per week. Long-term weight loss, reductions in sitewide obesity prevalence, and health or productivity benefits have yet to be demonstrated. Major conclusions. Recommendations for future research include improved methods, more attention to recruitment and secondary outcomes, more direct comparison of different programs, and more creative use of worksites as environments and social units in designing programs.

Responses to Two Weight-loss Programs Based on Approximating the Diet to the Ideal: Differences Associated with Increased Cereal or Vegetable Consumption

2006 ◽  
Vol 76 (6) ◽  
pp. 367-376 ◽  
Author(s):  
Ortega ◽  
Rodríguez-Rodríguez ◽  
Aparicio ◽  
Marín-Arias ◽  
López-Sobaler
Keyword(s):  
Weight Loss ◽  
Weight Control ◽  
Dietary Intervention ◽  
Vegetable Consumption ◽  
Healthy Eating Index ◽  
Anthropometric Data ◽  
Control Programs ◽  
Weight Loss Programs ◽  
Spanish Women ◽  
The Ideal

The fight against excess weight and obesity is a health priority. The aim of this study was to analyze the anthropometric changes induced by two weight control programs based on approximating the diet to the theoretical ideal (increasing the consumption of foods with the largest differences between the recommended and observed intakes: cereals and vegetables – for which a minimum of 6 and 3 servings/day are recommended, respectively). The study subjects were 57 Spanish women with a body-mass index (BMI) of 24–35 kg/m², all of whom were randomly assigned to one of two slightly hypocaloric diets for a six-week period: diet V, in which the consumption of greens and vegetables was increased, or diet C, in which the consumption of cereals was increased. Dietetic and anthropometric data were collected at the start of the study and again at two and six weeks. The dietary intervention approximated the subjects’ energy provision from proteins, fats, and carbohydrates to those recommended. The Healthy Eating Index (HEI) improved with both diets. Reductions in body weight, BMI, and the amount of body fat (kg) were also achieved with both diets. Weight loss was 1.56 ± 0.93 kg and 1.02 ± 0.55 kg at two weeks with diet C and V respectively, and 2.8 ± 1.4 kg and 2.0 ± 1.3 kg at six weeks (p < 0.05). Approximating the diet to the theoretical ideal by increasing the consumption of vegetables or cereals may therefore be of use in weight control. In terms of weight loss and the improvement of the diet quality (energy profile and HEI), diet C was significantly more effective than diet V.

scholarly journals Obesity and Cancer: Evidence, Impact, and Future Directions

2018 ◽  
Vol 64 (1) ◽  
pp. 154-162 ◽  
Author(s):  
Graham A Colditz ◽  
Lindsay L Peterson
Keyword(s):  
Weight Loss ◽  
Weight Gain ◽  
Cancer Risk ◽  
Weight Control ◽  
Epidemiologic Studies ◽  
Future Research ◽  
International Agency ◽  
Colon And Rectum ◽  
Additional Support ◽  
Risk Of Cancer

Abstract BACKGROUND Mounting evidence, particularly from prospective epidemiologic studies but with additional support from animal models and mechanistic studies, supported conclusions in 2016 by the International Agency for Research on Cancer (IARC) in their review of the preventive effects of weight control on cancer risk. CONTENT The workgroup concluded that obesity is causally related to cancer at 13 anatomic sites (esophagus: adenocarcinoma; gastric cardia; colon and rectum; liver; gallbladder; pancreas; breast: postmenopausal; uterine endometrial; ovary; kidney: renal cell; meningioma; thyroid; and multiple myeloma). Further, avoiding weight gain and excess body fat will prevent cancer. Evidence on weight loss and reduction in risk of cancer is more limited. Ongoing clinical trials address the benefits of weight loss interventions after diagnosis. SUMMARY Here, we review the evidence from the 2016 IARC that obesity is causally related to cancer at 13 anatomic sites and identify areas for future research, including the consequences of childhood adiposity, the relation between velocity of weight gain and cancer risk, and improved methods for analysis of life-course adiposity and cancer risk. Refining understanding of mechanisms may further inform prevention strategies.

scholarly journals Frequent Self-Weighing and Visual Feedback for Weight Loss in Overweight Adults

2015 ◽  
Vol 2015 ◽  
pp. 1-9 ◽  
Author(s):  
Carly R. Pacanowski ◽  
David A. Levitsky
Keyword(s):  
Weight Loss ◽  
Visual Feedback ◽  
Weight Control ◽  
Intervention Group ◽  
Future Research ◽  
Control Group ◽  
Minimal Amount ◽  
Delayed Treatment ◽  
Time Interaction ◽  
Significant Difference

Evidence has suggested that self-weighing may be beneficial for weight control in adults, but few studies have independently assessed the contribution of this behavior to weight loss. This study experimentally tested daily self-weighing and visual feedback (the Caloric Titration Method (CTM)) as a weight loss and weight loss maintenance intervention over 2 years. 162 overweight individuals were randomized to the CTM intervention or delayed treatment control group. In year 1, weight change was compared between groups, and in year 2, the control group started using the CTM while the intervention group continued using the CTM for maintenance. A significant difference in weight loss over the first year (CTMn= 70; 2.6 ± 5.9 kg versus controln= 65; 0.5 ± 4.4 kg,p= 0.019) was qualified by a group × gender × time interaction (p= 0.002) such that men lost more weight using the CTM. In year 2, the CTM group maintained their weight and the control group lost an amount similar to the intervention group in year 1. Daily self-weighing and visual feedback facilitated a minimal amount of weight loss and maintenance of this loss. Future research investigating characteristics of those who benefit from this type of self-directed intervention is warranted.

scholarly journals The Behavioral Intervention with Technology for E-Weight Loss Study (BITES): Incorporating Energy Balance Models and the Bite Counter into an Online Behavioral Weight Loss Program

2020 ◽  
Author(s):  
Carly M. Goldstein ◽  
Stephanie P. Goldstein ◽  
Diana M. Thomas ◽  
Adam Hoover ◽  
Dale S. Bond ◽  
...  
Keyword(s):  
Weight Loss ◽  
Energy Balance ◽  
Weight Control ◽  
Control Strategies ◽  
Behavioral Outcomes ◽  
Weight Loss Program ◽  
Future Research ◽  
Behavioral Weight Loss ◽  
Weight Control Strategies ◽  
To Receive

AbstractThis study evaluated feasibility and acceptability of adding energy balance modeling displayed on weight graphs combined with a wrist-worn bite counting sensor against a traditional online behavioral weight loss program. Adults with a BMI of 27–45 kg/m2 (83.3% women) were randomized to receive a 12-week online behavioral weight loss program with 12 weeks of continued contact (n = 9; base program), the base program plus a graph of their actual and predicted weight change based on individualized physiological parameters (n = 7), or the base program, graph, and a Bite Counter device for monitoring and limiting eating (n = 8). Participants attended weekly clinic weigh-ins plus baseline, midway (12 weeks), and study culmination (24 weeks) assessments of feasibility, acceptability, weight, and behavioral outcomes. In terms of feasibility, participants completed online lessons (M = 7.04 of 12 possible lessons, SD = 4.02) and attended weigh-ins (M = 16.81 visits, SD = 7.24). Six-month retention appears highest among nomogram participants, and weigh-in attendance and lesson completion appear highest in Bite Counter participants. Acceptability was sufficient across groups. Bite Counter use (days with ≥ 2 eating episodes) was moderate (47.8%) and comparable to other studies. Participants lost 4.6% ± 4.5 of their initial body weight at 12 weeks and 4.5% ± 5.8 at 24 weeks. All conditions increased their total physical activity minutes and use of weight control strategies (behavioral outcomes). Although all groups lost weight and the study procedures were feasible, acceptability can be improved with advances in the technology. Participants were satisfied with the online program and nomograms, and future research on engagement, adherence, and integration with other owned devices is needed. ClinicalTrials.gov Identifier: NCT02857595

scholarly journals Energy Balance Dynamics: Exercise, Appetite, Diet, and Weight Control

2021 ◽  
pp. 155982762198928
Author(s):  
Monica Kazlausky Esquivel
Keyword(s):  
Physical Activity ◽  
Weight Loss ◽  
Energy Balance ◽  
Weight Control ◽  
Synergistic Effects ◽  
Negative Energy ◽  
Modest Weight Loss ◽  
Sustained Weight Loss ◽  
Induce Weight Loss ◽  
Balance Dynamics

Individuals seeking to achieve weight loss are encouraged to achieve a negative energy balance, essentially eat less and move more. The complex relationship between energy expenditure and intake is often overlooked, leaving individuals and practitioners underwhelmed by the results of weight loss efforts. Independently, physical activity and diet interventions can yield modest weight loss and when combined have synergistic effects that promote sustained weight loss. Although physical activity benefits appetite suppression, reduces food rewards, and can be considered a gateway to healthy eating, high levels of daily activity are needed to induce weight loss. Diet is an important component to achieving weight loss, and high-protein diets have the potential for supporting weight loss as well. This column will be focused on the benefits of physical activity in reducing body weight, more specifically, the interdependent relationship between dietary intake and physical activity in achieving weight reduction.

scholarly journals Do Outcomes From a Behavioral Weight Loss Intervention Differ in Alabama vs Colorado

2021 ◽  
Vol 5 (Supplement_2) ◽  
pp. 1205-1205
Author(s):  
Julianne Clina ◽  
R Drew Sayer ◽  
Caroline Cohen ◽  
James Hill
Keyword(s):  
Physical Activity ◽  
Social Support ◽  
Weight Loss ◽  
Body Weight ◽  
Regional Differences ◽  
Management Program ◽  
Future Research ◽  
Weight Loss Intervention ◽  
Obesity Prevalence ◽  
Behavioral Weight Loss

Abstract Objectives There are well-established regional differences in obesity prevalence in the U.S., but relatively little is known about whether these differences impact efforts for weight loss. The objective of the study was to determine whether changes in body weight, engagement in physical activity (PA), and psychosocial factors differed in Colorado (CO) vs Alabama (AL) in response to a 16-week standardized behavioral weight management program. We hypothesized that weight loss would be greater in Colorado due to a more favorable physical and social environment. Methods This is an ancillary study to a weight loss intervention being conducted simultaneously in AL and CO with identical intervention content and delivery. Study participants (n = 70, 39 CO, 31 AL) were randomized to either a high protein (HP) or normal protein (NP) diet for 16 weeks and attended weekly group classes led by a trained coach targeting diet, mindset, and physical activity. Body weight, objective (accelerometry) and self-reported (International Physical Activity Questionnaire) PA, and responses to psychosocial questionnaires were collected at baseline and week 16. Psychosocial constructs included executive function, hedonic eating, stress, and social support. Results Both states lost a significant amount of weight (CO 13.2 ± 4.9 kg P = 0.0067; AL 12.5 ± 5.6 kg P = 0.0262) with no differences between states (P = 0.9315). Both states improved in all PA outcomes over time, with AL increasing significantly more in objective PA measures when compared to CO. AL had more favorable scores for hedonic eating at baseline (23.2 ± 2.4 vs 32.5 ± 1.8, P = 0.0017), which persisted to week 16 (19.0 ± 2.7 vs 29.7 ± 2.2, P = 0.0021). Finally, AL improved in several social support factors while CO did not. Conclusions While weight loss did not differ between states, AL experienced greater improvements in some factors known to improve long-term weight loss maintenance. Results from this study provide a strong rationale for investigating potential regional differences in the maintenance of lost weight that may not be apparent during the active weight loss phase of interventions. Future research in this area will require effective methods for tracking participants beyond the conclusion of most clinical trials. Funding Sources The parent clinical trial is supported by The Beef Checkoff.

scholarly journals Family support and weight-loss strategies among adolescents reporting sustained weight loss

2012 ◽  
Vol 16 (3) ◽  
pp. 499-504 ◽  
Author(s):  
Jennifer Utter ◽  
Simon Denny ◽  
Robyn Dixon ◽  
Shanthi Ameratunga ◽  
Tasileta Teevale
Keyword(s):  
Weight Loss ◽  
New Zealand ◽  
Young People ◽  
Family Support ◽  
Weight Control ◽  
Control Strategies ◽  
Sustained Weight Loss ◽  
No Weight Loss ◽  
Weight Control Strategies

AbstractObjectiveThe current research aims to describe the weight-control strategies and family support for young people reporting sustained weight loss in a large, population-based sample.DesignData were collected as part of Youth'07, a nationally representative survey of the health and well-being of New Zealand youth.SettingNew Zealand secondary schools, 2007.SubjectsSecondary-school students (n 9107).ResultsAmong young people who attempted weight loss in the previous year, 51 % reported long-term weight loss (lost weight and maintained weight loss for 6 months). Students reporting long-term weight loss were more likely to be male, but did not differ by age, ethnicity, socio-economic deprivation or measured weight status from students who reported temporary/recent weight loss or no weight loss. Students with long-term weight loss also reported healthier weight-control strategies (e.g. exercising, eating fewer fatty foods, eating fewer sweets), high parental support for healthy eating/activity and were less likely to report being teased about their weight by their family and having junk food available at home than students with temporary/recent weight loss or no weight loss.ConclusionsApproximately 50 % of young people attempting weight loss reported sustained weight loss. Young people who reported sustained weight loss appeared to have more family support than those who did not achieve this, suggesting the importance for weight-control services and interventions in adolescents of actively engaging the family.

scholarly journals Understanding Youths’ Experiences in a Holistic Weight Management Program

2012 ◽  
Vol 7 (2) ◽  
pp. 19-26
Author(s):  
Natasha A. Spassiani ◽  
Sarah Jeffery-Tosoni ◽  
Jessica Fraser-Thomas ◽  
Jennifer Kuk
Keyword(s):  
Weight Management ◽  
Weight Control ◽  
Holistic Approach ◽  
Structured Interview ◽  
Management Program ◽  
Positive Development ◽  
Future Research ◽  
Weight Management Program ◽  
Psychological Consequences ◽  
Control Programs

Given elevated levels of overweight/obesity among today’s youth (Centre for Disease Control and Prevention, 2008), and associated negative physical, emotional, and psychological consequences (e.g., Faith, et al., 1997; Must & Anderson, 2003), weight control programs must be critically examined. The purpose of this study was to gain understanding of youths’ experiences in a commercially available weight management program with a holistic approach. Participants included four purposefully sampled male and female youth aged 10-18, engaged in a 16-week program. Participants engaged in a semi-structured interview exploring their experiences within the program. Results indicated youth experienced positive development in the areas of physical, psychological and social skills, and highlighted specific mechanisms by which the program facilitated this development including the holistic approach, parent and peer engagement, and the required work ethic. Youth also reported negative experiences due to lack of autonomy, not reaching weight loss goals, and low enjoyment. Practical implications and future research directions are discussed.

How to Maintain a Healthy Body Weight

2006 ◽  
Vol 76 (4) ◽  
pp. 208-215 ◽  
Author(s):  
Astrup
Keyword(s):  
Physical Activity ◽  
Type 2 Diabetes ◽  
Weight Loss ◽  
Body Weight ◽  
Glycemic Index ◽  
Dairy Products ◽  
Weight Control ◽  
Healthy Body Weight ◽  
Healthy Body

The epidemic of both obesity and type 2 diabetes is due to environmental factors, but the individuals developing the conditions possess a strong genetic predisposition. Observational surveys and intervention studies have shown that excess body fatness is the major environmental cause of type 2 diabetes, and that even a minor weight loss can prevent its development in high-risk subjects. Maintenance of a healthy body weight in susceptible individuals requires 45–60 minutes physical activity daily, a fat-reduced diet with plenty of fruit, vegetables, whole grain, and lean meat and dairy products, and moderate consumption of calorie containing beverages. The use of table values to predict the glycemic index of meals is of little – if any – value, and the role of a low-glycemic index diet for body weight control is controversial. The replacement of starchy carbohydrates with protein from lean meat and lean dairy products enhances satiety, and facilitate weight control. It is possible that dairy calcium also promotes weight loss, although the mechanism of action remains unclear. A weight loss of 5–10% can be induced in almost all obese patients providing treatment is offered by a professional team consisting of a physician and dieticians or nurses trained to focus on weight loss and maintenance. Whereas increasing daily physical activity and regular exercise does not significantly effect the rate of weight loss in the induction phase, it plays an important role in the weight maintenance phase due to an impact on daily energy expenditure and also to a direct enhancement of insulin sensitivity.

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