Impact of digital technologies for communicating messages on weight loss maintenance: a systematic literature review

Research into the use of digital technology for weight loss maintenance (intentionally losing at least 10% of initial body weight and actively maintaining it) is limited. The aim of this article was to systematically review randomized controlled trials (RCTs) reporting on the use of digital technologies for communicating on weight loss maintenance to determine its' effectiveness, and identify gaps and areas for further research.

A systematic literature review was conducted by searching electronic databases to locate publications dated between 2006 and February 2018. Criteria were applied, and RCTs using digital technologies for weight loss maintenance were selected.

Seven RCTs were selected from a total of 6541 hits after de-duplication and criteria applied. Three trials used text messaging, one used e-mail, one used a web-based system and two compared such a system with face-to-face contact. From the seven RCTs, one included children (n = 141) and reported no difference in BMI Standard Deviation between groups. From the seven trials, four reported that technology is effective for significantly aiding weight loss maintenance compared with control (no contact) or face-to face-contact in the short term (between 3 and 24 months).

It was concluded that digital technologies have the potential to be effective communication tools for significantly aiding weight loss maintenance, especially in the short term (from 3 to 24 months). Further research is required into the long-term effectiveness of contemporary technologies.