January 2017 Summary

In discussion of the January article blog contributors determined the potential to apply study results to nutrition counseling, discussed functionality of the study's methodology, and considered cognitive behavioral therapy as applied to nutrition counseling. Summations of their discussions are described below.

The majority of contributors did not support incorporating the articles results into weight loss counseling. Three contributors shared a willingness to allow clients to select higher weight-loss targets beyond traditionally realistic goal setting. Also, five contributors doubted the potential benefits of setting higher weight-loss targets as described in the study. Concerns were raised as to the ability to reproduce weight-loss outcomes in a typical out-patient environment in absence of controlled inpatient interventions described in the weight loss study methodology. These contributors shared a preference in utilizing adjustable process and long-term goals in weight-loss counseling. Specifics of ascertaining the clients’ mode of motivation was stated as crucial in deciding whether to encourage higher or realistic weight-loss goals. A consensus has established all practitioners would utilize encouragement and motivation techniques to support progression towards weight loss goals.

All four contributors determined the researchers’ conclusions were correct, as to combining the results of the low calorie high protein and low calorie high carbohydrate diets. The type of diet was found not to significantly contribute to weight loss or maintenance.
Multiple points were raised as to the preference of either presented diet.

- Additional metabolic markers may indicate improved healthfulness, such as blood sugar level, for a particular diet not reflected in the measure of weight loss.
-Inclusion of sufficient protein may improve adherence to diet through enhanced satiation despite kcal restriction.
- Restriction of kcal for weight loss from protein sources may contribute weight loss resulting of loss of lean body mass, deplete labile amino acid stores and cause micro-nutrient deficiencies.

Both diets were considered to hold the same potential for weight loss despite macro-nutrient ratios in relation to equal restriction of kcal. Contributors would have liked to see further information of % fat, % lean body mass, HDL, LDL, TAGs in study participants to determine the efficacy of a high protein or high carbohydrate diet for weight loss as discussed in this study.

All four contributors agreed CBT is a valuable tool in nutrition counseling.
Utilized techniques include: journaling, self-monitoring, stress management, cognitive restructuring in education, motivational interviewing, goal setting, discrepancies of treatment goals and Socratic questioning. Multiple contributors shared a tendency to employ CBT techniques instinctually out of habit and empathy as a portion of nutrition counseling sessions.