Frequent Self‐Weighing with Electronic Graphic Feedback to Prevent Age‐Related Weight Gain in Young Adults

Objective An intervention using Wi‐Fi scales and graphic e‐mail feedback, the caloric titration method (CTM), to reduce age‐related weight gain over 1 year among college students was evaluated. Methods First‐year college students ( n  = 167) were randomized to CTM or control (C) groups and provided Wi‐Fi scales. The CTM group was instructed to weigh daily, view a weight graph e‐mailed to them after weighing, and try to maintain their weight. The C group could weigh at any time but did not receive feedback. At 6 months and 1 year, the C group provided weights. For intention to treat analysis, an adjusted mixed model was used to analyze the effect of the intervention. Results Baseline body mass index was 22.9 ± 3.0 kg/m 2 . Ninety‐five percent of the CTM participants weighed ≥3 times/week, compared to 15% in the C group ( P  < 0.001). After 1 year, the C group had gained 1.1 ± 4.4 kg whereas the CTM group lost 0.5 ± 3.7 kg ( F  = 3.39, P = 0.035). The difference in weight change between the two groups at 1 year was significant ( P = 0.004). Retention was 81%. Conclusions CTM intervention was effective in preventing age‐related weight gain in young adults over 1 year and thus offers promise to reduce overweight and obesity.