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Published on: May 8, 2018
Self-weighing frequency is associated with weight gain prevention over 2 years among working adults
Jeffrey J VanWormer1, Jennifer A Linde, Lisa J Harnack
1Epidemiology Research Center, Marshfield Clinic Research Foundation, 1000 North Oak Ave., Marshfield, WI 54449, USA. vanwormer.jeffrey@mcrf.mfldclin.edu
Background:
Little is known about the association between self-weighing frequency and weight gain prevention, particularly in worksite populations.
Purpose:
The degree to which self-weighing frequency predicted 2-year body weight change in working adults was examined.
Method:
The association between self-weighing frequency (monthly or less, weekly, daily, or more) and 24-month weight change was analyzed in a prospective cohort analysis (n = 1,222) as part of the larger HealthWorks trial.
Results:
There was a significant interaction between follow-up self-weighing frequency and baseline body mass index. The difference in weight change ranged from -4.4 ± 0.8 kg weight loss among obese daily self-weighers to 2.1 ± 0.4 kg weight gain for participants at a healthy weight who reported monthly self-weighing.
Conclusion:
More frequent self-weighing seemed to be most beneficial for obese individuals. These findings may aid in the refinement of self-weighing frequency recommendations used in the context of weight management interventions.
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