Changes in nutrient intake during a behavioral weight control program.

Behavioral modification holds promise of being an effective mode of therapy for obesity. It focuses on changing clients' eating habits and does not always include specific dietary guidance. This study was conducted to learn whether such behavior modification training results in the adoption of nutritionally sound dietary patterns. Originally, the diets of fifteen individuals met two-thirds of all Recommended Dietary Allowances. After a twenty-week program, the only nutrients below this level were iron, thiamin, and calcium. Other changes involved an increase in nutrient density for protein, fiber, phosphorus, iron, vitamin A, thiamin, riboflavin, niacin, ascorbic acid, and cholesterol. Nutrient density for carbohydrates, fat, and calcium decreased.