Longitudinal Effects of a Commercial Digital Weight Management Program on Weight Loss

Participants assigned to Noom Weight will be provided access to the app-based program for 16 weeks. This program offers access to self-monitoring features, psychoeducational articles, one-on-one coaching from health experts, and group support. The app includes a robust database of foods, allowing users to track their energy intake. Self-monitoring via the app enables users to review and monitor behavior and weight change patterns. Daily articles review principles of behavior change, nutrition, exercise, etc.

Participants assigned to the educational control will receive 16 brief (5-10 minute read) weekly newsletters outlining information on developing and maintaining a healthy diet and lifestyle adapted from the 2015-2020 Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) and Department of Agriculture (USDA) Dietary Guidelines for Americans. Newsletters include detailed information on topics such as nutrition fundamentals (e.g., calorie limits; healthy eating), food groups and dietary guidelines (e.g., importance of vegetables, fruits, and grains), and tips for habit change (e.g., reducing added sugar and saturated fats). Each week includes prompts for individuals to try new strategies (e.g., make a conscious decision about everything you eat; try to eat at your calorie budget).