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ObjectivesHunger training (HT) is an intervention designed to teach people to eat according to their hunger by connecting physical symptoms of appetite with glucose levels. HT is most effective for weight loss, and improving eating behaviours when adherence is high. However, adherence is a challenge that should be explored prior to wider dissemination. The aim of this study was to explore participants’ experience and self-reported adherence and behaviour change related to HT.DesignA qualitative study, nested within a randomised controlled pilot study of two different methods of monitoring glucose during HT. Semistructured interviews were audio-recorded, transcribed verbatim and analysed thematically using a phenomenological approach.SettingSingle-centre study with participants recruited from the local area.Participants40 participants began the pilot study and 38 participants (52.6% women) remained at 1 month and completed interviews.ResultsMost participants felt they were able to match their hunger to their glucose levels by the end of the intervention. The main adherence barriers were the social pressure to eat, lack of time and lack of flexibility in participants’ meal schedules. Common adherence enablers were having a set routine, social support and accountability. Participants described increased awareness of hungry versus non-hungry eating and better cognition of feelings of hunger and satiety as a result of the intervention, which in turn led to changes of food choice, portion size and adjusted meal timing and frequency.ConclusionsFindings show that HT is acceptable from a patient perspective, and results can be used to inform the translation of HT programme to healthcare settings.Trial registration numberACTRN12618001257257.

INTRODUCTIONPractice nurses in general practice are ideally placed to deliver weight management treatments. Teaching people to eat according to their appetite, based on measurements of blood glucose (‘hunger training’), is known to lead to weight loss and improved eating behaviour. To effectively translate this research to primary care requires understanding of key stakeholder perspectives. AIMThe aim of this study was to explore the perspectives of practice nurses on the suitability of using hunger training as a weight management intervention in general practice. METHODSTen nurses trialled hunger training for 1 week, followed by a semi-structured interview where they were asked about their experience; perceived patient interest; enablers and barriers; and suggested changes to hunger training. RESULTSAll nurses were positive about hunger training and wanted to use it with their patients. They thought it was a useful method for teaching patients about eating according to their appetite, and the impact of food choices on glucose. Motivation was seen to be both an important potential barrier and enabler for patients. Other anticipated patient enablers included the educational value of hunger training and ease of the programme. Other barriers included lack of time and cost of equipment and appointments. For most nurses, 1 week of following hunger training was sufficient training to deliver the intervention. Suggested refinements included adding nutrition advice to the booklet, incorporating other health goals and enabling social support. DISCUSSIONThese findings suggest that hunger training could be translated to primary care with minor modifications.