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CORVALLIS, Ore. - Women who are interested in reducing their stomach flab, or just want to lose a few pounds may be interested in joining a new study by Oregon State University researchers.

Kari Pilolla, a Ph.D. student in the Department of Nutrition and Exercise Sciences working under the guidance of OSU professor Melinda Manore, is seeking premenopausal women (preferably age 21 to 48) who are moderately overweight, have a waist measurement that is more than 31.5 inches, and are not very physically active. Participants should be fairly healthy with no history of cardiac conditions or diabetes.

Pilolla said more than 62 percent of American women have "abdominal obesity" which puts them at risk for chronic disease later in life. As women age, it becomes more difficult to lose weight in the abdominal area.

"We know that abdominal obesity is linked to a whole host of health problems, including heart disease, high blood pressure and diabetes," she said. "We are focused on prevention of these health risks. If we can reduce abdominal weight before women hit menopause, we can reduce their risk of chronic health conditions."

Women who participate in the study will be put in two groups: one group will eat a healthy diet with moderate protein, while the other group will eat a higher protein diet, which includes a protein supplement.

All participants will receive special diet and exercise counseling and a personalized diet plan with a dietitian, as well as free classes to attend Zumba exercise in Corvallis. Zumba is a Latin dance-style aerobic exercise regime. Participants are required to attend three exercise classes per week (a value worth $600).

Pilolla said the goal is that participants will lose about one pound a week, depending on body type and how closely they follow the exercise and diet plan. At the end of the four month study, participants will receive $50, plus all the additional health benefits and weight loss.

The study will start in January, but participants are being screened right now. To see if you are eligible to participate, contact Kari Pilolla at 541-737-8516 or e-mail pilollak@onid.orst.edu.