This study compared five methods of delivering a lifestyle modification program for 6 months in obese patients receiving sibutramine. The relative change in body weight was the primary outcome. After the 6-month intervention period, percent body weight loss was similar in the high-frequency face-to-face lifestyle modification counselling and high-frequency telephone counselling groups and was significantly greater than that of the three other groups (low-frequency face-to-face counselling, high-frequency e-mail counselling or no dietitian contact). Although all groups showed a significant reduction in waist circumference, the largest decrease was observed in the high-frequency face-to-face counselling group and was significantly greater than the reduction achieved in the low-frequency face-to-face counselling or no dietitian contact groups. Significant improvements were also observed for HDL cholesterol and triglyceride levels, measures of quality of life and weight-related symptoms. These results suggest that the type (personalized intervention) and frequency of counselling sessions have a substantial impact on the magnitude of weight loss to be expected from a lifestyle modification program.
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