z_bumbi
2011-08-30, 19:10
Am J Med. 2011 Aug 17. [Epub ahead of print]
A Low-Cost Reinforcement Procedure Improves Short-Term Weight Loss Outcomes.
Petry NM, Barry D, Pescatello L, White WB.
Source
Pat and Jim Calhoun Cardiology Center, University of Connecticut School of Medicine, Farmington, Conn.
Abstract
OBJECTIVE:
Reinforcement-based treatments, based on behavioral economics models, can improve outcomes of medical conditions with behavioral components. This study evaluated the efficacy of a low-cost reinforcement intervention to produce initial weight loss.
METHODS:
Overweight individuals (n=56) were randomized to one of two 12-week treatments: Lifestyle, Exercise, Attitudes, Relationships, Nutrition manual with supportive counseling or that same treatment with opportunities to win $1 to $100 prizes for losing weight and completing weight-loss activities.
RESULTS:
Patients receiving reinforcement lost significantly more weight (6.0%±4.9% baseline bodyweight) than patients in the non-reinforcement condition (3.5%±4.1%; P=.04). Moreover, 64.3% of patients receiving reinforcement achieved weight loss of≥5% baseline bodyweight versus 25.0% of those in the non-reinforcement condition (P=.003). Proportional weight loss was significantly related to reductions in total cholesterol and 24-hour ambulatory heart rate.
CONCLUSION:
This reinforcement-based intervention substantially enhances short-term weight loss, and reductions in weight are associated with important changes in clinical biomarkers. Larger-scale evaluation of reinforcement-based treatments for weight loss is warranted.
A Low-Cost Reinforcement Procedure Improves Short-Term Weight Loss Outcomes.
Petry NM, Barry D, Pescatello L, White WB.
Source
Pat and Jim Calhoun Cardiology Center, University of Connecticut School of Medicine, Farmington, Conn.
Abstract
OBJECTIVE:
Reinforcement-based treatments, based on behavioral economics models, can improve outcomes of medical conditions with behavioral components. This study evaluated the efficacy of a low-cost reinforcement intervention to produce initial weight loss.
METHODS:
Overweight individuals (n=56) were randomized to one of two 12-week treatments: Lifestyle, Exercise, Attitudes, Relationships, Nutrition manual with supportive counseling or that same treatment with opportunities to win $1 to $100 prizes for losing weight and completing weight-loss activities.
RESULTS:
Patients receiving reinforcement lost significantly more weight (6.0%±4.9% baseline bodyweight) than patients in the non-reinforcement condition (3.5%±4.1%; P=.04). Moreover, 64.3% of patients receiving reinforcement achieved weight loss of≥5% baseline bodyweight versus 25.0% of those in the non-reinforcement condition (P=.003). Proportional weight loss was significantly related to reductions in total cholesterol and 24-hour ambulatory heart rate.
CONCLUSION:
This reinforcement-based intervention substantially enhances short-term weight loss, and reductions in weight are associated with important changes in clinical biomarkers. Larger-scale evaluation of reinforcement-based treatments for weight loss is warranted.