Weight loss maintenance after a digital commercial behavior change program (Noom Weight): Observational cross‐sectional survey study

Abstract

Abstract Background Behavioral weight loss programs often lead to significant short‐term weight loss, but long‐term weight maintenance remains a challenge. Most weight maintenance data come from clinical trials, in‐person programs, or general population surveys, but there is a need for better understanding of long‐term weight maintenance in real‐world digital programs. Methods This observational survey study examined weight maintenance reported by individuals who had used Noom Weight, a digital commercial behavior change program, and identified factors associated with greater weight maintenance. The cross‐sectional survey was completed by 840 individuals who had lost at least 10% of their body weight using Noom Weight 6–24 months prior. Results The study found that 75% of individuals maintained at least 5% weight loss after 1 year, and 49% maintained 10% weight loss. On average, 65% of initial weight loss was maintained after 1 year and 57% after 2 years. Habitual behaviors, such as healthy snacking and exercise, were associated with greater weight maintenance, while demographic factors were not. Conclusion This study provides real‐world data on the long‐term weight maintenance achieved using a fully digital behavioral program. The results suggest that Noom Weight is associated with successful weight maintenance in a substantial proportion of users. Future research will use a randomized controlled trial to track weight maintenance after random assignment and at a 2 year follow‐up.

Keywords

• digital health
• mHealth
• obesity
• weight loss maintenance