Free-Living Dietary Intervention Studies: Theory-Based Protocols to Improve Subject Compliance

Abstract

ObjectivesSubject compliance in free-living dietary intervention studies is difficult to achieve. Published studies suggest various theoretically based strategies that can be used to improve compliance. MethodsA weight-management dietary intervention for free-living subjects, based on a vegetarian dietary pattern, was created. Development of 7-day menus was conducted using McGraw Hills’ NutritionCalc Plus software. Menus utilized a framework from the 2015–2020 Dietary Guidelines for Americans’ Healthy Vegetarian Eating Pattern (macronutrient ratios and food group servings). A literature review was conducted to identify various counseling and technology strategies that may be effective at increasing subject compliance with their assigned study diet. The findings of the literature review was used to create study protocols. Protocol development for a food demonstration was also explored. ResultsA 1-week menu cycle for a vegetarian diet intervention was created, including a set of menus each for 1200,1800, and 2000 calories levels. The menus are inclusive of foods and portions that meet the Dietary Guidelines for Americans. Three study protocols were developed for strategies that may improve subject compliance: 1. A nutrition counseling protocol based on motivational interviewing; 2. A technology protocol on use of a dietary-self monitoring app; and 3. A food demonstration protocol highlighting vegetarian recipes. The protocols are designed to be used by study clinicians/dietitians in future intervention studies. ConclusionsTheory-based protocols can be used to develop standardized protocols for research studies. These protocols theoretically may help to improve subject compliance. Funding SourcesNIH BUILD PODER.