A simple dietary message to improve dietary quality: Results from a pilot investigation

ObjectiveThe present study compared the feasibility of two simple messages (a high-fiber diet or a low saturated fat diet) to a combination message (high fiber/low saturated fat) on their potential to affect dietary quality and metabolic health.MethodsThirty-six subjects were randomized to one of three intervention conditions and received individual dietary counseling sessions. Study assessments occurred at baseline, 3 mo, and 6 mo.ResultsThe sample was 84% female and 94% Caucasian. Mean body mass index was 31 kg/m². At the 6-mo assessment phase, we retained all 12 patients in the high-fiber diet condition, 10 of 12 in the low saturated fat condition, and 9 of 12 in the combination condition. Participants reported that the dietary fiber intervention was easier to maintain compared with the other two intervention conditions (83% for high dietary fiber versus 60% for low saturated fat versus 33% for the combination, P = 0.008). Overall dietary quality improved in all three conditions during the study (P = 0.01). In addition to increasing fiber, the high-fiber condition decreased their saturated fat intake, even though a reduction in saturated fat was not a part of that intervention condition. Participants in all three conditions lost an average of 9 lb from baseline weight (P < 0.001).ConclusionA simple dietary message is feasible and can improve overall dietary quality. Results support the need for a larger randomized controlled trial that is powered to detect the efficacy of a simplified dietary recommendation for dietary quality and metabolic health.