Effectiveness of a CD-ROM nutrient analysis program on self-monitoring behavior of active duty military personnel receiving nutrition counseling for weight loss

This study was conducted to compare the effectiveness of using a CD-ROM nutrient analysis database on self-monitoring practices. Participants consisted of 42 active duty military personnel recruited from weight loss classes who were assigned to complete and submit food records for six weeks either using a CD-ROM or a hard copy food record booklet. Participants completed pre and post questionnaires to determine attitudes and behaviors towards self-monitoring. A focus group was conducted for the CD-ROM users in order to assess additional qualitative information. Although not statistically significant, experimental group members recorded on a greater percentage of study days compared to control group members. Independent t tests and Chi Square analyses revealed no significance between the total number of days documented or average number of items recorded daily. Experimental group members looked for lower calorie and fat items and reported changing their diet as a result of the information given significantly more frequently than control group members. Results from the questionnaires and focus group were favorable towards the CD-ROM indicating that it is a useful self-monitoring tool, providing useful information to the client.