Worksite weight management program: A three-months intervention study in a primary health care setting

Abstract

Purpose

This study aims to pilot test a new multi-component worksite intervention for weight loss in a primary healthcare setting.

Design/methodology/approach

This randomized trial involved 88 participants (43, 45; intervention, control group). The intervention group enrolled in a 12-week lifestyle program that involved modification of dietary intake by community Registered Dietitian (RDs) and increasing high-intensity interval training (HITT) with motivational interviewing (MI) to support changes. The control group received traditional counselling and weekly aerobic exercise from Medical Officer and physiotherapist. The primary outcome measure was the changes in body weight. Secondary measures were changes in blood pressure, fasting blood glucose, fasting blood lipid and dietary changes. Assessments were repeated at a three-month interval.

Findings

There was a significant reduction in body weight and waist circumference within groups. Intervention group demonstrated a significant improvement in all cardiometabolic risk factors. This study showed that primary healthcare setting can be successful locations in promoting short-term health benefits. RDs were more successful and HITT appeared to be a favorable workout with MI in achieving drastic weight loss.

Research limitations/implications

The short-term worksite intervention and not recording of body composition were the major drawbacks in this study.

Originality/value

The efficacy of multi-component worksite intervention (Diet–HITT–MI) in primary healthcare setting has not been clearly defined.

Citation

Kong, J.P., Jok, L., Ayub, A.B. and Bau, R.A. (2017), "Worksite weight management program: A three-months intervention study in a primary health care setting", Nutrition & Food Science, Vol. 47 No. 4, pp. 490-510. https://doi.org/10.1108/NFS-08-2016-0132