Behavioral mediators of treatment effects in the weight loss maintenance trial

J. W. Coughlin, C. M. Gullion, P. J. Brantley, V. J. Stevens, A. Bauck, C. M. Champagne, A. T. Dalcin, K. L. Funk, J. F. Hollis, G. J. Jerome, L. F. Lien, C. M. Loria, V. H. Myers, L. J. Appel

Research output: Contribution to journalArticlepeer-review

16 Scopus citations

Abstract

Background: The Weight Loss Maintenance Trial tested strategies for maintenance of weight loss. Personal contact was superior to interactive technology and self-directed conditions. Purpose: We aimed to identify behavioral mediators of the superior effect of personal contact vs. interactive technology and of personal contact vs. self-directed arms. Methods: Overweight/obese adults at risk for cardiovascular disease (n = 1,032) who lost at least 4 kg were randomized to personal contact, interactive technology, or self-directed. After 30 months, 880 participants had data on weight and behavioral strategies. Results: Reported increase of intake of fruits and vegetables and physical activity and more frequent self-weighing met criteria as mediators of the better outcome of personal contact vs. interactive technology. Increased intake of fruits and vegetables, more frequent self-weighing, and decreased dessert consumption were mediators of the difference between personal contact vs. self-directed. Conclusion: Inducing changes in the identified behaviors might yield better outcomes in future weight loss maintenance trials. (ClinicalTrials.gov number NCT00054925)

Original languageEnglish (US)
Pages (from-to)369-381
Number of pages13
JournalAnnals of Behavioral Medicine
Volume46
Issue number3
DOIs
StatePublished - Dec 2013

Keywords

  • Behavioral strategies
  • Mediators
  • Obesity
  • Weight maintenance
  • Weight regain

ASJC Scopus subject areas

  • General Medicine

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