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Weight Gain Over 6 Years in Young Adults: The Study of Novel Approaches to Weight Gain Prevention Randomized Trial
Author(s) -
Wing Rena R.,
Espeland Mark A.,
Tate Deborah F.,
Perdue Letitia H.,
Bahnson Judy,
Polzien Kristen,
Robichaud Erica F.,
LaRose Jessica G.,
Gorin Amy A.,
Lewis Cora E.,
Jelalian Elissa
Publication year - 2020
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.22661
Subject(s) - weight gain , medicine , overweight , randomized controlled trial , psychological intervention , young adult , weight change , weight loss , cohort , obesity , physical therapy , pediatrics , gerontology , body weight , psychiatry
Objective The study objective was to determine whether two self‐regulation interventions that reduced 3‐year weight gain in young adults remain effective at 6 years. Methods A randomized trial was conducted in two academic settings in 599 young adults, aged 18 to 35 years, with normal weight or overweight; 504 (84%) reconsented for a 6‐year extension (Study of Novel Approaches to Weight Gain Prevention‐Extended [SNAP‐E]) with ongoing intervention and assessments. Weight gain over 6 years was compared for all assigned to Control, Large Changes (LC; lose 5‐10 pounds initially), and Small Changes (SC; make small daily changes in intake and activity). Results Weight change from baseline to 6 years did not differ significantly among the three groups (Control = 3.9 kg, SC = 4.1 kg, and LC = 2.8 kg). However, there was a significant age‐by‐treatment interaction ( P = 0.002). Among those < 25 years old, weight gain from baseline to 6 years averaged 7.3 kg in the Control group and was reduced by almost 50% in LC and SC. LC also significantly reduced mean weight gain (area under the curve) over 6 years compared with Control or SC. Conclusions Although the interventions did not reduce weight gain at 6 years for the full cohort, they were effective in those < 25 years old. Future efforts should focus on young adults aged 18 to 24.9 and test more intensive interventions with more diverse participants.