But more importantly than just logging on to a Web site is what type of program you tap into. Our study shows that a structured program with continued contact works better than just giving people access to information online. They received interactive feedback from a trained therapist through e-mail and had access to an electronic bulletin board to facilitate social support among participants, in addition to informational resources about diet and exercise. Many participants achieved a standard weight-loss benchmark. The Internet combines the ability to disseminate written information with the opportunity for interaction through e-mail, bulletin boards or chat rooms.
Dieters can also access the Web on their own schedule.
Tate collaborated on the study with Rena R. Wing, professor of psychiatry and human behavior at the Brown Medical School, and Richard A. Winett, professor of psychology at Virginia Polytechnic Institute and State University. The study was supported by a grant from the Weight Risk Investigators Study Council, a research division of Knoll Pharmaceutical. The study's Web site was accessible on an Intranet maintained by the network of hospitals in which all of the study participants were employed. Researchers recommended participants follow a standard weight loss regimen including a diet of 1,200 to 1,500 calories per day and a daily fat intake of less than 20 percent of calories, and gradually increase their physical activity to burn a minimum of 1,000 calories per week.