Physicians’ Self-Reported Frequency of Recommending Various Weight Loss Strategies
| Weight Loss Strategy | Frequency (mean ± SD) |
|---|---|
| Increase physical activity | 6.7 ± 0.5a |
| Reduce consumption of fast food | 6.5 ± 1.0b |
| Reduce portion sizes | 6.1 ± 1.1c |
| Reduce soda consumption | 6.0 ± 1.4d |
| Eat a low-calorie diet | 5.6 ± 1.3e |
| Suggest a specific type of physical activity | 5.6 ± 1.3e |
| Decrease the fat content of the diet | 5.4 ± 1.5e,f |
| Consume breakfast | 5.4 ± 1.9e,f |
| Recommend a specific intensity of physical activity | 5.1 ± 1.5f |
| Recommend locations to which individuals can go to engage in physical activity | 5.1 ± 1.5f |
| Refer to a dietitian for individual counseling | 4.7 ± 1.4g |
| Weigh themselves regularly | 4.5 ± 1.9g,h |
| Use fat and/or calorie modified foods | 4.3 ± 1.7h,i |
| Provide in-office educational materials | 4.3 ± 1.7h,i |
| Refer to a commercial program | 4.1 ± 1.6h,i |
| Follow a specific calorie goal | 4.1 ± 1.7i,j |
| Eat a modified low-carbohydrate diet (ie, <40 g carbohydrate) | 3.9 ± 1.7i,j |
| Record food intake in a diary | 3.8 ± 1.9i,j |
| Decrease television viewing | 3.6 ± 1.9j |
| Eat a Mediterranean diet | 3.2 ± 1.9k |
| Eat a low-carbohydrate diet | 3.0 ± 1.7k |
| Use meal replacements | 2.6 ± 1.6l,k |
| Refer to an exercise specialist | 2.4 ± 1.4l |
| Recommend Internet sources for weight loss | 2.4 ± 1.6l |
| Use weight loss medication | 2.0 ± 1.1m |
Values with different subscripts differ at P < .05 level.