Relationship between Cognitive-Behavioral Processes and Stages of Change in Nutrient Use in Overweight Women Referring to Health Centers in Isfahan

BACKGROUND: The positive impact of post-needs assessment training on the correction of eating habits is remarkable. The aim of present study was to determine the relationship between cognitive-behavioral processes and stages of change in nutrient use in overweight women referring to health centers in Isfahan. MATERIALS AND METHODS: The present study was a cross-sectional study conducted in 2017 during a three-month period. Using systematic random sampling, 260 overweight women referring to Isfahan comprehensive health centers were chosen. Data collection was performed by a four-part researcher-made questionnaire including demographic information form, stages of change of behavior, cognitive and behavioral processes questionnaire, and standard 168-item Food Frequency Questionnaire. After confirming its validity and reliability, it was completed by the researcher. Data were then entered N4 software perfect and analyzed using descriptive and analytical tests (ANOVA and Bonferroni Post-Hoc). RESULTS: 59.30% of the subjects were in an inactive and 40.70% in an active phase. There was a significant difference with respect to different stages of change and the use of all behavior change processes (F(4)= 11.42, p < 0.001). The rate of using cognitive and behavioral processes increased during the nutrient change behavior (p < 0.001). CONCLUSIONS: The results of the study showed that moving away from pre-contemplation stage to maintenance phase increases the rate of using these processes that is due to the stability and improvement of changed behavior. Therefore, health plans should be designed based on the stage of the target group.