A strong public response has more than doubled the number of people participating in an innovative University of Otago weight-loss study.
About 90 people had already agreed to take part when University of Otago academic Dr Craig Marshall recently urged other men to join him in trying a diet with a difference, through the study.
The study's principal researcher, Associate Prof Rachael Taylor, said Dr Marshall's appeal, published in an ODT story late last month, had ''certainly generated plenty of interest''.
After that publicity a ''huge influx'' of people had accessed the study database, and more than 200 people were now taking part.
''We are also thrilled that about 40% are men, which is unusual for a weight loss study like this,'' she said.
Another 50 participants were needed to complete recruitment for the research.
Organised through the Otago University department of medicine, the study is called Swift -Support strategies for Whole-food diets, Intermittent Fasting and Training.
Researchers are seeking men and women, aged 18 or over, with a body mass index of 27 or higher.
Dunedin people wanting to participate can learn more online at swift.otago.ac.nz.
The study offers participants a range of exercise choices and diet options, the latter including a modified ''Paleo'' diet, the Mediterranean, and a ''fasting'' diet, two days a week.
