Extrait

Background and study aims Weight loss can be difficult and lots of research has been done to find effective plan for improving weight loss programmes. It has been shown that if participants don't stick to weight loss programmes for long, and don't change their behaviour, weight loss can't be sustained in the long run. In modern weight management programmes, a food diary is a self-monitoring method to record daily diet for nutritionists to look at later. With the help of modern technology, food diaries could help participants to learn how to keep the weight off. The aim of this study was to test if an electronic food diary (the Portal) helped obese people to lose weight effectively. Who can participate? The study aimed to recruit 60 adults aged 20-60 with body mass index of 25 or more. What does the study involve? Recruited obese subjects were randomly assigned to one of three groups (electronic food diary or paper food diary or control group). Each subject received three sessions with each of 60-90 minutes diet consultations. Bio-measurements of body height, body weight, fat percentage, blood pressure, waist and hip circumference were done before and after the intervention. Exercise was recommended to all subjects in three groups. Eating behaviour, nutritional knowledge and performance at work, sports and leisure activities were measured by questionnaire at the start and end of the project. What are the possible benefits and risks of participating? Participants had access to a well-organised weight loss programme. An electronic food diary helped them monitor their own food intake. Participating in this study helped scientists see whether the electronic food diary worked, and whether using these could help lower the cost of weight loss programmes in the future. There were no known risks associated with participating. Where is the study run from? The Hong Kong Polytechnic University When is the study starting and how long is it expected to run for? The study started recruitment in July 2011. Participants were recruited for a period of 3 months from September 2011 to November 2011. Who is funding the study? The study was funded by the investigators. Who is the main contact? Dr. Louisa Chung [email protected]

Critère d'inclusion

• obesity

Liens

• isrctn
• ictrp