Weight Loss in Young Adults through Behavioral Self-Regulation
Author Information
Author(s): Jessica Gokee-LaRose, Amy A Gorin, Rena R Wing
Primary Institution: Brown Medical School, The Miriam Hospital, Weight Control and Diabetes Research Center
Hypothesis
Will young adults adhere to self-weighing prescriptions and achieve significant weight loss through a behavioral intervention?
Conclusion
Young adults can be effectively recruited and retained in a tailored weight loss program, achieving and maintaining significant weight losses.
Supporting Evidence
- Participants in both groups attended an average of 8.7 out of 10 group meetings.
- Retention rates were 93% for post-treatment and 88% for follow-up assessments.
- Both groups achieved significant weight losses at post-treatment and follow-up.
- Daily weighing was positively associated with overall weight change at follow-up.
Takeaway
This study shows that young adults can lose weight by weighing themselves daily and following a special program designed just for them.
Methodology
Participants were randomized into two groups: one focusing on daily self-weighing and the other on standard behavioral treatment, with assessments at baseline, post-treatment, and follow-up.
Potential Biases
The sample may not represent all young adults, as it was predominantly female and self-selected.
Limitations
The study had a small sample size and a short follow-up period, and the majority of participants were female.
Participant Demographics
Participants were 29.1 years old on average, with a BMI of 33.36; 35 were female and 5 were male.
Statistical Information
P-Value
p<0.001
Statistical Significance
p<0.001
Digital Object Identifier (DOI)
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