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Mobile weight self-monitoring adherence and eating behavior changes: A secondary analysis of a 12-month RCT
Renata Savian Colvero de Oliveira1, Sharon Nabwire1, Silja Rantaiso2,3
1Oulu Advanced Research on Service and Information Systems Unit, University of Oulu, Oulu, Finland.
Digital Health
|December 15, 2025
Summary
Continuous self-monitoring using mobile health systems improved eating behaviors in individuals with obesity. This approach reduced disordered eating and enhanced cognitive restraint over 12 months.
Area of Science:
- Behavioral Science
- Obesity Research
- Digital Health
Background:
- Mobile health behavior change support systems (mHBCSS) aid weight management through self-monitoring.
- While effective for weight loss, daily tracking may risk disordered eating in obese individuals.
Purpose of the Study:
- To evaluate the 12-month effects of weight self-monitoring on eating behaviors in obese individuals using mHBCSS.
Main Methods:
- A 12-month randomized controlled trial with 98 obese participants using mHBCSS.
- Participants were categorized as continuous (≥6 months monitoring) or non-continuous self-monitors.
- Eating behaviors assessed included binge eating, cognitive restraint, emotional eating, and uncontrolled eating.
Main Results:
- Continuous self-monitors showed higher cognitive restraint and lower binge eating scores compared to non-continuous monitors.
- Within the continuous group, binge eating, uncontrolled eating, and emotional eating significantly decreased over time.
- Cognitive restraint significantly increased over time in the continuous self-monitoring group.
Conclusions:
- Sustained self-monitoring via mHBCSS promotes significant improvements in eating behaviors.
- This includes enhanced cognitive restraint and reduced disordered eating patterns.
- Tailored mHBCSS can improve engagement and promote healthier habits while mitigating risks.
