The role of self-monitoring in the maintenance of weight loss success

Abstract

Introduction Self-monitoring has been shown to be a crucial part of initial weight loss success in behavioral interventions. However, little is known about the impact of self-monitoring during the period following initial treatment. Methods The current study examined the role of self-monitoring on weight loss during an initial 6-month intervention period (Phase1) and a 12-month extended care period (Phase 2) in a group of 167 obese women (M±SD: BMI = 37.0±5.1 kg/m2, age = 59.9±6.2 years) enrolled in a behavioral weight loss program. Results Cluster analysis identified three groups of participants with low, moderate, and high rates of weight loss success during Phase 1 and Phase 2. A one-way ANOVA revealed no significant differences in self-monitoring frequency between groups during Phase 1 (p = .645), but significant differences between all three groups during Phase 2 (p = .001). High success participants completed the most self-monitoring records, followed by the moderate group. The low success group completed the least number of records. Furthermore, self-monitoring during Phase 2 significantly mediated the relationship between extended-care session attendance and percent weight change during that time (95% CI [−.004, −.001], p < .001). Conclusion These results highlight the importance of continuing self-monitoring after the initial phase of treatment to maintain lost weight.

Patterns of weight loss and their determinants in a sample of adults with overweight and obesity intending to lose weight

“…In their study, participants were clustered based on percent weight change during a 6‐month intervention period and a 12‐month extended care period. In accordance with our findings, three weight loss patterns were identified, with low, moderate and high rates of weight loss success . Szabo‐Reed et al .…”

“…In accordance with our findings, three weight loss patterns were identified, with low, moderate and high rates of weight loss success. 27 Szabo-Reed et al used latent profile analysis to identify profiles for weight change over an 18-month follow up. The profiles were described as 'modest loss-complete regain', 'intermediate loss-minimal regain' and 'substantial loss-minimal regain'.…”

Feasibility and efficacy of a novel technology‐based approach to harness social networks for weight loss: the NETworks pilot randomized controlled trial

“…N = 36; includes the three participants who were not part of the analytic sample), although the absolute difference between groups in this reported outcome remained similar. Although daily self-weighing has been demonstrated to improve weight losses in other studies (45) and appears to have a particular role in facilitating weight maintenance (51), the level of self-weighing resulting from the enhanced intervention did not translate to better weight-loss outcomes. Participants and partners treated together in a previous study identified the bodyweight scales provided as very helpful for their weight loss (13).…”

Project TEAMS (Talking about Eating, Activity, and Mutual Support): a randomized controlled trial of a theory-based weight loss program for couples

“…Attendance at treatment sessions is anticipated to decline over time, but, in keeping with prior studies in the weight control literature, those who attend more sessions are expected to have better weight loss outcomes [ 59 , 60 ]. Adherence to self-monitoring, a known predictor of treatment success [ 61 , 62 ], will be assessed by tracking the total number of self-monitoring diaries that are completed and turned into the group leader during the interventions.…”