The Effect of the Family Environment on Weight Loss in Early Postpartum Women

A multitude of factors within the family environment can impact eating behaviors and physical activity, and, subsequently, affect weight status. Identification of these factors can assist weight management programs, especially for women in postpartum. This study assessed the associations between family environment components and weight loss in 63 women in early postpartum after an intervention. Anthropometrics were measured pre‐ and post‐intervention, and subjects completed the Family Eating and Environmental Dimensions Index. Successful weight loss was positively associated with social pressure (r = 0.35, p < 0.05), will power during social eating (r = 0.35, p < 0.01), and amount of entertainment at home (r = 0.28, p < 0.05). Conversely, weight loss was negatively related to availability of snacks (r = −0.31, p < 0.05) and soda (r = −0.44, p < 0.001), types of snacks (r = −0.36, p < 0.01) and soda (r = −0.44, p < 0.001), and frequency of dining out (r = −0.25, p < 0.05). Those who were stimulated to eat primarily by taste of food were less likely to achieve significant weight loss (p < 0.01). These results suggest intervention strategies for effective weight loss programs targeting women in early postpartum. TX Coord. Board UTA00‐377.