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A randomized trial testing the efficacy of a novel approach to weight loss among men with overweight and obesity
Author(s) -
Crane Melissa M.,
Lutes Lesley D.,
Ward Dianne S.,
Bowling J. Michael,
Tate Deborah F.
Publication year - 2015
Publication title -
obesity
Language(s) - English
Resource type - Journals
SCImago Journal Rank - 1.438
H-Index - 199
eISSN - 1930-739X
pISSN - 1930-7381
DOI - 10.1002/oby.21265
Subject(s) - medicine , weight loss , overweight , randomized controlled trial , physical therapy , obesity , intervention (counseling) , gerontology , psychiatry
Objective To test the efficacy of a weight loss intervention designed to appeal to men. Methods A randomized trial tested the efficacy of the Rethinking Eating and FITness (REFIT) weight loss program compared to a wait‐list control. The 6‐month intervention was delivered via two face‐to‐face sessions followed by Internet contacts. REFIT encouraged participants to create calorie deficits by making six 100‐calorie changes to their eating daily while increasing physical activity, and the program encouraged customization through selection of specific diet strategies evaluated each week. Results Participants ( N = 107, 44.2 years, 31.4 kg/m 2 , 76.6% white) were randomized into the study, and 90.6% provided data at 6 months. REFIT participants lost −5.0 kg (95% CI: −6.1, −3.9) at 3 months, which was maintained through 6 months (−5.3 kg, 95% CI: −6.5, −4.2); this was greater than the control group ( p < 0.001; 6 months: −0.6, 95% CI: −1.8, 0.5). More REFIT participants (49%) achieved a 5% weight loss than control participants (19%; OR 9.4; 95% CI: 3.2, 27.4). An average of 11.2 (±2.7) of 13 of the online intervention contacts were completed. Conclusions The novel REFIT intervention produced clinically significant weight losses. This approach holds promise as an alternative to traditional behavioral therapy for men.