PACE+: Counseling for Overweight Women for Diet and Activity

Over 400 overweight and obese (BMI of 25 to 39.9) women age 20 to 55 were recruited into the PACE+: Women in Balance study. Participants were recruited through their primary care provider and randomized into either a 1-year treatment group or a delayed control group.

The intervention components included counseling from the participants' provider, a web-based assessment and follow-up program, and periodic phone and email interaction with a health counselor.

Participants logged on to a secure website and completed monthly modules that include goal-setting for target behaviors, how to use behavior change skills, and educational topics on physical activity and nutrition.

This is the first PACE study to offer the assessment and the extended follow-up counseling via the Web. The behavioral targets have been modified from previous PACE+ versions to emphasize longer durations for physical activity (30-60 minute goal) and micronutrient- and phytochemical-dense, low-energy-dense food choices (e.g., dark green leafy lettuce vs. iceberg lettuce; whole fruit vs. fruit juice).

The revised behavioral targets are based on national guidelines and make additional suggestions to improve nutrient density of foods and physical activity durations that are more likely to lead to weight maintenance and/or loss.