Changes in self‐perception of functional health and well‐being following participation in a weight‐loss intervention (811.13)

Abstract

The Short‐Form 36 Health Survey (SF‐36) was used to assess perceived changes in 8 health constructs (physical functioning, PF; role physical, RP; bodily pain, BP; general health, GH; vitality, V; social functional, SF; emotional, E; mental health, MH) in 60 premenopausal women who participated in an 18‐wk weight‐loss intervention. Women (mean±SD age: 35.9±5.8 y, BMI: 31.0±4.3 kg/m2) were randomized to an energy‐restricted diet including 1 sugar‐free cocoa beverage and 2 dark chocolate snacks/d (DCG, n=30) or 1 sugar‐free non‐cocoa beverage and 2 non‐chocolate snacks/d (NCG, n=30). Women completed the SF‐36 at baseline and week 18. Within and between group differences were analyzed using paired and independent t‐tests, respectively. Both groups significantly reduced weight (P<0.001) and perceived improvements in GH (P<0.05), with no significant differences between groups. The DCG reported improved PF (P<0.05) and the NCG increased V (P<0.05), but differences between groups were not found in SF‐36 health constructs. All 60 women self‐reported improvements in PF (P<0.05), V (P<0.05) and GH (P<0.001). A dietary pattern that promotes weight loss may result in self‐perceived improvements in personal health, ability to perform daily activities and energy level. Further research is warranted to understand how self‐ratings of health influence weight loss in women.Grant Funding Source: Supported by The Hershey Company, Hershey, PA