Physical activity and nutrition programs for couples: a randomized controlled trial

J Clin Epidemiol. 2003 May;56(5):421-32. doi: 10.1016/s0895-4356(02)00610-8.

Abstract

Diet and physical activity habits may deteriorate after cohabitation, leading to weight gain and increased risk of lifestyle diseases. We carried out a 4-month, randomized controlled trial of a diet and physical activity program for couples with a 1-year follow-up, comparing two methods of delivery. The program used six modules, which, after an initial group session, were mailed to the low-level intervention group. In the high-level intervention group, half of the modules were mailed, and the others were delivered at interactive group sessions. A control group received no intervention. Postintervention and at follow-up, physical fitness improved in the high-level group, saturated fat intake decreased in both intervention groups, and low-density lipoprotein cholesterol fell in the high-level group. Fewer participants in the high-level group became overweight or obese. Health promotion for couples can improve health behaviors and potentially lower the risk of lifestyle diseases in participants and their future families.

Publication types

  • Clinical Trial
  • Randomized Controlled Trial
  • Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov't

MeSH terms

  • Adolescent
  • Adult
  • Blood Pressure
  • Cholesterol / blood
  • Cholesterol, LDL / blood
  • Couples Therapy / methods*
  • Exercise Therapy / methods
  • Female
  • Follow-Up Studies
  • Health Promotion / methods*
  • Humans
  • Male
  • Middle Aged
  • Nutritional Physiological Phenomena*
  • Obesity / blood
  • Obesity / diet therapy
  • Obesity / prevention & control*
  • Smoking Cessation
  • Western Australia

Substances

  • Cholesterol, LDL
  • Cholesterol