fruit and vegetable consumption. In general, studies in these health settings allowed retrieval of information on additional biochemical measures, including total cholesterol levels, and more intensive dietary measures (e.g., 3-day food records) that are not as frequently retrievable in other settings. These settings also allowed ongoing monitoring of at-risk groups.

A paper published subsequent to publication of the literature review in the AHRQ Diet Report extended these findings by showing both reduced levels of dietary fat intake and increased levels of fruit and vegetable consumption after an individualized intervention delivered by personalized mailings, standard dietary information, and personalized phone calls (Kristal et al., 2000a).

In summary, behavioral interventions tested in health care settings can have a significant impact on the dietary intakes of participants. These settings allow the targeting of participants at risk for disease, who may be more willing to engage in behavioral change, and offer an ideal environment for the monitoring of individuals.