A pilot randomized trial of simplified versus standard calorie dietary self‐monitoring in a mobile weight loss intervention
Brooke T. Nezami, Lex Hurley, Julianne Power, Carmina G. Valle, Deborah F. Tate
Abstract
OBJECTIVE: This study tested the efficacy of a lower-burden, simplified dietary self-monitoring approach compared with a standard calorie monitoring approach for self-monitoring adherence and weight loss in a mobile-delivered behavioral weight loss intervention. METHODS: Participants (n = 72) with overweight or obesity who had children 2 to 12 years of age living in the home were randomly assigned to a group that used simplified dietary self-monitoring of high-calorie foods (Simplified) or a group that tracked calories (Standard). Both groups received a wireless scale, Fitbit trackers, and a 6-month intervention delivered via a smartphone application with lessons, text messages, and weekly personalized feedback messages. RESULTS: Percentage weight loss at 6 months was 5.7% (95% CI: -8.3% to -3.2%) in the Standard group and 4.0% (95% CI: -5.7% to -2.3%) in the Simplified group, which was not significantly different. Similar proportions reached 5% weight loss at 6 months (43.2% in Standard and 42.9% in Simplified). There were no differences in number of dietary tracking days or change in average daily caloric intake between groups. CONCLUSIONS: Two mobile-delivered weight loss interventions produced clinically meaningful levels of weight loss at 6 months, with no differences in dietary tracking adherence or dietary intake. The results suggest that simplified monitoring of high-calorie foods could be a promising alternative to calorie monitoring.