A Cafeteria Based Study of Weight Gain Prevention

A Cafeteria Based Study of Weight Gain Prevention

The dramatic rise in overweight and obesity during the past several decades can be explained by environmental changes that foster increased energy intake and decreased energy expenditure. There are several reasons to suggest that the most effective approach to weight gain prevention is the incorporate reduced-fat eating into an overall strategy of lowering the energy density of the diet. Our energy density manipulations will be designed to reduce both the fat content and the caloric density of foods served at a cafeteria, which serves as the "food environment" for hospital employees.

Inclusion Criteria:

• works at one of the two hospitals and eats lunch in the cafeteria 2x per week
• BMI between 23 and 25

Exclusion Criteria:

• current diagnosis of a chronic disease or condition known to affect appetite or body weight
• currently taking medication known to affect appetite or body weight
• current pregnancy or plans to become pregnant within the next 24 months
• current enrollment or plans to enroll within the next 24 months in an organized weight management program
• plans to terminate employment at the hospital within the next 12 months