Weight Loss Knowledge Among Current And Future Health Professionals In Exercise Science And Nutrition

Abstract

Knowledge among current and future health professionals of the most recent literature pertaining to applicability of the 3500 calorie rule for predicting weight loss is unknown. PURPOSE: To assess levels of knowledge, among those in the fields of exercise science and nutrition, of the applicability of the 3500 calorie rule for predicting weight loss (WL) over time and whether knowledge differed with a person’s training level and their perceived WL knowledge. METHODS: Students (S), faculty (F), and professionals (P) [n = 352, 68% female, 31 ± 13.5 years] responded to an anonymous online survey sent via email lists and social media platforms. Level of WL knowledge was assessed using a list of 9 statements pertaining to the 3500 calorie rule and its ability to accurately predict WL over time. Respondents were asked to identify which statements were true and were scored (0-100%) based on their correct responses. Participants also reported current exercise and nutrition certifications. They reported level of WL knowledge on a 5 point Likert scale and were divided into 2 groups: very good or excellent (EX) knowledge vs good, fair and poor (Poor) knowledge. Respondents were grouped as certified or not certified. A one-way ANOVA was used to test for differences in scores on WL facts between S, F, and P. Independent t tests were used to detect differences in scores on WL facts between certified and not certified and between EX knowledge and Poor knowledge. RESULTS: Scores on WL facts were not different between S, F, and P [64.1 ± 18.9% (n=217); 70.1 ± 19.9% (n=39); 63.5 ± 21.2% (n=96), respectively; p = 0.176]. Certified S had higher scores on WL facts than S without certifications [72.8 ± 17.9% vs 62.6 ± 18.7%, respectively; p = 0.005] while no differences in scores on WL facts existed between those with and without certifications for F [67.2 ± 19.7% vs 73.5 ± 20.2%, p = 0.335] and P [64.0 ± 20.8% vs 62.4 ± 22.7%, p = 0.748]. Those who rated themselves as having EX knowledge did not score differently than those who rated themselves as having Poor knowledge [69.8 ± 16.0% vs 69.3 ± 16.8%, respectively; p = 0.789]. CONCLUSIONS: Knowledge of WL concepts is similar among S, F, and P. Certification may enhance students’ knowledge of WL facts but does not influence knowledge for F or P. High levels of perceived knowledge may not reflect better actual knowledge of WL facts.