Successful Implementation of a Mediterranean Weight Loss Program to Prevent Overweight and Obesity in the Workplace

Reducing obesity is a priority for employers seeking to lower the incidence and severity of chronic illness and associated health services. The aim was to identify if a workplace-based dietary intervention monitored by health professionals is effective at reducing obesity, as part of an obesity-control-program at work.

A 12-week dietary intervention was designed for 102 overweight/obese Spanish employees in Madrid. Dietary and anthropometric (height, weight, body mass index [BMI], fat mass, and waist circumference) assessment was conducted at baseline, follow-up, and final. Six 20-minute counseling sessions were undertaken by participants.

Significant post-intervention reductions were observed in all anthropometric measures. 77.5% of the participants were considered respondents to the intervention, while 22.5% remaining were not. A higher proportion of women responded positively to the treatment compared with men. However, higher decrease in anthropometric measures were observed in men.

The workplace is deemed to be effective for providing guided dietary intervention and behavioral support based on the proximity of health professionals to the employee.