Strategies For Successful Weight Loss In Men: Lessons From The SHED-IT Randomised Controlled Trial

Abstract

PURPOSE: To identify the dietary changes that contributed to weight loss in the SHED-IT (Self-Help, Exercise and Diet using Information Technology) men-only weight-loss trial where men lost significant (p ≤ 0.05) weight at 6mo and maintained this loss at 12 mo. Few studies have reported on the types or extent of dietary changes that men will adopt in order to lose weight. METHODS: Sixty-five overweight/obese men (mean [sd] age = 35.9 [11.1] years; BMI = 30.6 [2.8]) participated. Dietary intake was assessed at baseline and 6mo using the Dietary Questionnaire for Epidemiological Studies Food Frequency Questionnaire, which asks respondents to report their usual consumption of 74 foods and 6 alcoholic beverages. Men were divided into 3 categories for analysis; Gp1 (n=21): lost more than 5% of body weight at 6mo; Gp2 (n=14): lost more than 2kg but less than 5% body weight; Gp3 (n=17): lost less than 2kg. RESULTS: All groups reduced energy intake; Gp1 by ∼30% compared to ∼20% in Gp2 and Gp3. Reductions in portion size were greatest for Gp1 (20%). There were no substantial differences in decreases in carbohydrate or protein intakes among groups, but Gp1 decreased fat intake by ∼40% (decreasing intakes of full-cream milk, meat pies, pizza, hamburgers, chocolate, chips, potato crisps and ice cream) compared to 20-25% for the other groups. Reductions in meat intake were modest. Sugary drink intakes decreased by 55%. Alcohol consumption changes varied by group with a ∼30% decrease in energy from alcohol in Gp1 compared to no change in Gp2. Men did not increase their intakes of fruit or vegetables to meet healthy-eating guidelines, and fiber intake remained below recommended levels throughout. CONCLUSION: Men choose decreasing portion sizes, reduction in sugary drink intakes, and reduction or elimination of high fat food, particularly snacks and take-away food, as their preferred weight-loss dietary changes. Alcohol intake is moderated but not eliminated. These findings have implications for the design of targeted weight loss messages for men. Supported by a University of Newcastle Strategic Pilot Grant.