On-Line Intervention For Promoting Healthy Habits And Weight Loss In Hypertensive Patients

Design, Development And Validation Of A On-Line Intervention For Promoting Healthy Habits And Weight Loss In Hypertensive And Risk For Diabetes Mellitus People With Overweight And Type I Obesity

Efficacy of an Internet-based self-guided intervention for promoting healthy habits and weight loss in hypertensive people with overweight and obesity: A Randomized Controlled Trial

The prevalence of overweight and obesity is on the rise worldwide with severe physical and psychosocial consequences. Hypertension is one of the comorbidities associated with obesity. Changes in lifestyles through eating behavior and physical activity level are the critical components in the prevention and treatment for hypertension and obesity. Data from several studies indicate that the usual procedures to promote these healthy habits in health services are inadequate. ICTs has been demonstrated as an effective tool for implementation of psychological interventions focused on this type of population. This study aims to describe a totally self-applied online program (¨Vivir Mejor¨) to promote healthy lifestyles (eating behavior and physical activity) for obese participants with hypertension. Participants (BMI=25-35) will be recruited from users of a hypertension unit of a public hospital and will be randomized into two groups: experimental group "Vivir Mejor" and control group (treatment as usual). "Vivir Mejor" program is composed by 9 modules aimed for promoting healthy eating habits and increase physical activity. Modules will be sent via Internet periodically. After 6 months, a follow-up testing phase and a tracking module will be set. The outcomes variables will include anthropometric data, changes in eating behavior and physical performance and cardiovascular variables.

Inclusion Criteria:

• Overweight or obese grade I (BMI> 25 and <35)
• Age between 18-65 years
• Being in clinical medical treatment for prevention of metabolic syndrome or Cardiac complications
• Having internet access.

Exclusion Criteria:

• No Internet access; Taking more than 3 antihypertensive drugs
• Have Diabetes diagnosis; Meet the DSM-IV-TR of Eating Disorder
• Submit a serious psychological disorder diagnosed (psychosis, bipolar disorder, major depressive disorder, substance abuse)
• Have a disability which prevents or hinders the exercise and physical activity
• Be receiving any treatment for weight loss in another center.