Behavioral and cognitive effects of a worksite-based weight gain prevention program: the NHF-NRG in balance-project

Abstract

Objective: Examine the effectiveness of the worksite-based weight gain prevention program Netherlands Heart Foundation-Netherlands Research program weight Gain prevention In Balance, with regard to behavioral changes and corresponding cognitive determinants.

Methods: A nonrandomized pretest-repeated posttest control group design was applied in 12 worksites. Intervention groups received individual and environmental interventions, directed at physical activity and food intake. Measurements were executed at baseline and after 12 and 24 months.

Results: Nearly all behaviors in the intervention group improved more than in the control group, even though improvements in behaviors were often too small to reach statistical significance. No positive intervention effects were observed for the cognitive factors.

Conclusion: Differential changes between the intervention and control group were observed for several important dietary and physical activity behaviors. Valuable information is gained regarding the implementation of weight gain prevention programs in worksites.