Replication and Extension of the Weight Loss For Life Community-Based Treatment Protocol

Area of Science:

• Behavioral science
• Obesity research
• Public health

Background:

• Long-term weight loss maintenance is difficult with traditional behavioral treatments.
• Previous research showed success in weight loss and maintenance using a social cognitive theory-based curriculum.
• The need for enhanced strategies to sustain weight loss and healthy behaviors beyond initial treatment phases.

Purpose of the Study:

• To replicate and extend previous findings on a behavioral weight-loss treatment.
• To evaluate the efficacy of an enhanced phase 2 treatment including a 2-year follow-up component.
• To assess the impact of the enhanced treatment on weight change, self-regulation, and lifestyle factors.

Main Methods:

• A replication study involving women with obesity (BMI 30-40 kg/m²).
• Comparison of a phase 1 treatment (6-month curriculum) with a phase 2 treatment (year-long curriculum plus 5 brief phone follow-ups in year 2).
• Assessment of weight change, self-regulation skills, fruit/vegetable intake, and physical activity over 24 months.

Main Results:

• Phase 2 weight loss (6.3% at 6 months, 0.7% regain by 24 months) did not significantly differ from phase 1.
• Phase 2 demonstrated significantly better retention of improvements in self-regulation, fruit/vegetable intake, and physical activity.
• In phase 2, changes in fruit/vegetable intake and physical activity fully mediated the relationship between self-regulation and weight change over 2 years.

Conclusions:

• Intensive follow-up focused on self-regulation skills is important for sustained weight management.
• Moderate physical activity and dietary improvements are key mediators in maintaining weight loss.
• The enhanced behavioral treatment shows promise for long-term success in women with obesity.