Online Weight Loss Programs Helping People Lose Weight
By Rosie Squires 5/07/09
Online diet programs are a more effective way to lose weight and keep it off than dealing in person with a dietician, experts say.
Newcastle university associate professor of nutrition and dietetics , Clare Collins said such programs were effective because participants felt more comfortable discussing their issues behind the veil of anonymity online forums provide.
Professor Collins who provides the dietary advice for contestants on the hit show The Biggest Loser said the internet allowed dieters ready access to support forums and nutritional suggestions at the time of their choosing.
'' Some people feel too ashamed to return to a face to face meeting if they are not reaching their expectations but online you can go back to the site as much as you like '' Professor Collins said.
A three year study bing conducted by the University of Newcastle will for the first time evaluate the effectiveness of online weight loss programs and take a comprehensive look at weight management.
'' To date the studies on the effectiveness of programs are limited, we want to change that '' Professor Collins said.