Lifestyle, Eating, and Activity Patterns

Previous observational and experimental research suggests that increased eating frequency is
related to lower weight, body mass index (BMI)and body fatness. It is proposed that eating
frequently during the day reduces overall energy consumed by preventing the development of
excessive hunger. As elevated hunger increases the reinforcing value of food, and greater
intake occurs when the reinforcing value of food increases, eating frequently during the day
may be a dietary strategy that can aid with reducing energy intake and improving weight loss
during a behavioral weight control program. Therefore, the purpose of this proposed research
is to test the effect of manipulating eating frequency on hunger and the reinforcing value of
food in 50 overweight/obese adults participating in a 6-month behavioral weight loss
intervention. Participants will be randomized to 1 of 2 conditions: 1) a condition in which
participants will be given an eating frequency prescription to eat every 2 to 3 hours
(Grazing); or 2) a condition in which participants will be given an eating frequency
prescription of eating 3 meals per day (Three Meals). Both conditions will receive an
identical dietary prescription, a low-calorie (1200 to 1500 kcals/d), low-fat (≤ 30% kcals
from fat) diet and an identical physical activity goal of 200 minutes of moderate-intense
physical activity per week. Additionally, both conditions will receive an identical
state-of-the-art, 6-month, behavioral weight loss program.

Inclusion Criteria:

- body mass index (BMI) between 27 and 45 kg/m2

Exclusion Criteria:

- report a heart condition, chest pain during periods of activity or rest, or loss of
consciousness

- report being unable to walk 1/4 mile without stopping

- report major psychological disease or organic brain syndromes

- report a diagnosis of type I or type II diabetes

- are currently participating in a weight loss program, are taking weight loss
medication, have had surgery for weight loss, or have lost > 5% of their body weight
in the past 6 months

- are currently participating in a program that manipulates their eating habits

- intent to move outside of the East Tennessee area within the time frame of the
intervention

- are pregnant, lactating, less than 6 months post-partum, or plan to become pregnant
during the time frame of the intervention

- are unwilling to attend group intervention meetings, assessments, or complete a food
diary for the duration of the study