title: Frequent Self-Weighing and Visual Feedback for Weight Loss in Overweight Adults.
abstract: Evidence has suggested that self-weighing may be beneficial for weight control in adults, but few studies have independently assessed the contribution of this behavior to weight loss. This study experimentally tested daily self-weighing and visual feedback (the Caloric Titration Method (CTM)) as a weight loss and weight loss maintenance intervention over 2 years. 162 overweight individuals were randomized to the CTM intervention or delayed treatment control group. In year 1, weight change was compared between groups, and in year 2, the control group started using the CTM while the intervention group continued using the CTM for maintenance. A significant difference in weight loss over the first year (CTM n = 70; 2.6 ± 5.9 kg versus control n = 65; 0.5 ± 4.4 kg, p = 0.019) was qualified by a group × gender × time interaction (p = 0.002) such that men lost more weight using the CTM. In year 2, the CTM group maintained their weight and the control group lost an amount similar to the intervention group in year 1. Daily self-weighing and visual feedback facilitated a minimal amount of weight loss and maintenance of this loss. Future research investigating characteristics of those who benefit from this type of self-directed intervention is warranted.
authors.affiliation: University of Minnesota Division of Epidemiology & Community Health, 1300 S. 2nd Street, Suite 300, Minneapolis, MN 55454, USA ; Cornell University Division of Nutritional Sciences, 112 Savage Hall, Ithaca, NY 14853, USA.
authors.forename: Carly R
authors.initials: CR
authors.lastname: Pacanowski
authors.affiliation: University of Minnesota Division of Epidemiology & Community Health, 1300 S. 2nd Street, Suite 300, Minneapolis, MN 55454, USA ; Cornell University Division of Nutritional Sciences, 112 Savage Hall, Ithaca, NY 14853, USA.
authors.forename: David A
authors.initials: DA
authors.lastname: Levitsky
mesh_terms: D000328:Adult; D015992:Body Mass Index; D001835:Body Weight; D005247:Feeding Behavior; D005260:Female; D006801:Humans; D008297:Male; D008875:Middle Aged; D008991:Monitoring, Physiologic / Q000523:psychology* / Q000706:statistics & numerical data; D009765:Obesity / Q000517:prevention & control / Q000523:psychology*; D012648:Self Care / Q000523:psychology*; D012649:Self Concept; D014481:United States; D015431:Weight Loss