Abstract
Purpose
Portion control can be an effective weight‐loss strategy for people with serious mental illnesses (SMI). This study aimed to examine the feasibility of portion‐control intervention (PCI) for people with SMI.
Design and Methods
A randomized experimental design was used. The PCI group received weekly, telephone‐delivered behavioral counseling over 12 weeks. Newsletter group received monthly newsletters regarding healthy eating. Descriptive statistics were used to analyze data collected at baseline and at 12 weeks.
Findings
The acceptability of the PCI and significant decreases in waist circumference among the participants of the PCI group were reported.
Practice Implications
Simple and structured guidelines to manage portion size, akin to those featured in our PCI, can benefit those with SMI.