Portion Control Program w/o Food Limits Works For Weight Loss

Effect of a Novel Food Portion Control Program (Lifesize®) on Dietary Intake and Body Weight

Study by Colorado State University

Background: Food portion sizes have increased in the U.S. which contributes to excess energy intake.

Objective: We determined the effect on body weight, energy intake, and dietary energy density of a portion control program (Lifesize(R)) that encourages free choice of foods, but limits portion sizes while allowing unlimited consumption of fruits, vegetables, and low_ fat dairy.

Methods: 22 overweight and obese subjects (n= 19 females, n=3 males; X (SD) age= 40(12); X BMI= 30.0(2.4) kg/m2) completed a 12_ week portion_control program. Participants used measuring devices to limit quantities of energy_dense foods. Body weights were recorded bi_ weekly and 3_day dietary records were collected at baseline, and weeks 1,6, and 12.

Results: Reported energy intake during the 12 weeks decreased by ~500 kcal/d compared to baseline, and mean weight loss was 2.4 kg. Relative intake of fruits and vegetables significantly increased from baseline at week 1 (X=+125.9 g/1000Kcal), week 6 (X= +80.7 g/1000Kcal), and week 12 (X= +192.6 g/1000Kcal). Despite free access to ‘favorite foods’, participants’ energy density (kcal/g food) was significantly decreased.

Conclusion: Including favorite foods while limiting portion sizes and allowing unlimited intake of fruit, vegetables and low_fat dairy may be an effective approach to lowering dietary energy density to elicit weight loss. Funded by Lifesize(R)

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