Internet Diet Professionals Help People Lose Weight

Last month, a study showed the positive effects of DietBet.com, which is a website dedicated to those who can bet money on themselves so they can reach a weight loss goal. Similarly, the rise of online dieticians has shown quite a bit of success when it comes to helping those in need. .

Group Health, which is a member-governed, nonprofit healthcare system, had some of their patients participate in an e-Care for Heart Wellness study. The study sought to find whether or not online access to a dietician was effective. Patients who were overweight and had hypertension were found to benefit the most from the use of an online dietician.

These types of patients were more likely to lose ten pounds in six months if they had access to an online dietician rather than being provided with information and care in their usual circumstances. The ease of this process is comparable to the incentive-based DietBet.com. The success of these programs show that patients either need readily available access or something to strive for when seeking help or trying to reach a goal.

Beverley B. Green, MD, MPH, is a family doctor at Group Health and was fortunate enough to speak with the participants of the study to gauge their interest toward the program. The at-your-fingertips aspect of the online access seemed to please many.

"One patient said, 'It's like having a dietitian in your pocket,'" said Green in a news release. "The patients really loved this intervention--and having access to a dietitian to work with them toward a healthier lifestyle."

The statistics have also been in favor of those in the study who received dietician e-care. The study examined 90 patients, 44 of which were assigned to an online dietician and 46 who were provided education and their usual care. The 44 patients that received the dietician reported having higher rates of satisfaction than those who did not.

Perhaps medical experts should explore more options involving online, ready-to-use, and easy-to-use treatment options for patients with preventable health issues. This study, as well as the success seen by DietBet.com should be a lesson and a stepping-stone for further advancements.