Pounds Off Digitally Study: A Podcasting Weight Loss Intervention

We will conduct a weight loss intervention study among adults. Using the weight loss podcast that receives the highest rating from a previous content analysis, we will conduct an intervention comparing the best existing weight loss podcast to an enhanced podcast. The enhanced podcast will be based on theoretical constructs that have been shown to be effective in producing weight loss in other research studies. We will then evaluate the effectiveness of podcasting to promote weight loss in adults. Weight change from baseline to 12-weeks and changes in psychosocial measures will be used to assess differences between the existing podcast, enhanced podcast, and control conditions. In conclusion, this research study aims to find innovative and inexpensive ways to help people lose weight. Podcasting has the possibility of reaching a wide range of age and ethnic groups and will allow people to receive weight loss information when and where it is convenient for them.

Inclusion criteria

be 18-50 years old be overweight or obese (BMI between 25-35) but not severely or morbidly obese live in the Chapel Hill area be able to attend an introduction meeting and weigh-in before the study and a weigh-in after the study have access to the Internet and a computer with a sound card have a working MP3 player that can connect to a computer have access to a scale be willing to be randomized to any group

Exclusion criteria

smoker current major health or psychiatric diseases, drug or alcohol dependency, uncontrolled thyroid conditions, eating disorder, or pregnancy participation in a weight loss program or taking weight loss medications